Buffl

C2 Premium

JS
by Joshua S.

come /kʌm/

"VERB [I] (came, come)

come to think of it

used to say that you have just thought of something

Dictionary example:

Come to think of it, I've got two batteries that you can have upstairs.

Learner example:

Come to think of it, it really is quite difficult to say.

come to do sth

to start to do something or to reach a state after a period of time

Dictionary examples:

I have come to rely on acupuncture.

This place has come to be known as 'Pheasant Corner'.

Learner example:

All the things she had been believing in until then had come to mean [no]thing, as gold turns into coal.

come apart/off, etc.

to become separated or removed from something

Dictionary examples:

The book came apart in my hands. The handle came off.

My shoelaces have come undone.

The door came open.

come into being

to start to exist

Dictionary example:

The new law comes into being next month.

Learner example:

Only with knowledge of the written word were villages able to organise themselves in larger forms of government, leading from local to regional to national levels, [and] finally leading to

transnational structures as they came into being mostly during the last 100 years.

come to light

If information about something bad comes to light, it is discovered.

Dictionary example:

She knew that the fraud would eventually come to light.

Learner example:

Eventually, their ""lia[is]on"" comes to light and Leo blames himself for the disastrous outcome of the events throughout his life.

come under fire to be criticized

Dictionary example:

The government has come under fire for closing the hospital.

come to the/sb's rescue

to help someone who is in a difficult situation

Dictionary example:

I forgot my purse but Anna came to the rescue and lent me some money.

take sth as it comes

to deal with something as it happens, without planning for it

Dictionary example:

With an illness like this you just have to take every day as it comes.

Learner example:

We should, for once, put our [jea]lousy aside, start to appr[e]ciate what we have and take life as it comes.

come to terms with sth

to accept a sad situation

Dictionary example:

He still hasn't come to terms with his brother's death.

Learner example:

She had, at last, come to terms with her loss and although she still, deep in her heart, grieved for

Michael she now knew that she could move on.

catch /kætʃ/

"VERB (caught, caught)

be/get caught

to be unable to avoid something unpleasant

Dictionary example:

I got caught in the rain.

Learner example:

I must apologise for my lateness as I was caught in the bad weather.

STICK

[I or T] to stick somewhere, or to make something stick somewhere

Dictionary example:

My dress caught on the door handle as I was leaving.

No sooner did I start bicycling before my slacks got caught in the chain and with a curse coming from my lips I fell right into the neighbour's well trimmed shrubbery.

catch sight of sth

to see something suddenly, often only for a short time

Dictionary example:

He caught sight of himself in the mirror.

Learner example:

All we could see were people bursting into tears when they caught sight of his coffin.

catch sb's eye

to get someone's attention by looking at them

Dictionary example:

I tried to catch her eye, but she had already turned away.

Learner example:

All of a sudden she caught my eye and smiled in a sad way.

catch sb's eye

to be attractive or different enough to be noticed by people

Dictionary example:

It was the colour of his jacket that caught my eye.

Learner example:

Dear Sir, I am writing regarding your newly published article about nutrition, which immediately caught my eye as I was reading your magazine.

catch sb off guard

to surprise someone by doing something when they are not ready to deal with it

Dictionary example:

The journalist caught him off guard and he admitted to lying.

Learner example:

It caught me off guard. This grotesque image shattered the comfort of a languid Sunday afternoon

and for a few seconds hurled me into a world of pain.

fresh /freʃ/

"ADJECTIVE

SKIN

Fresh skin looks healthy.

Dictionary example:

a fresh complexion

Learner example:

Her eyes were blue and she had a beautiful fresh complexion.

fresh water

water from lakes, rivers, etc. that has no salt in it

Dictionary example:

These fish live in fresh water.

Learner example:

You find stunning white beaches, clear, fresh water lakes, isolated tropic islands, reef, rainforests,

buzzing cities, challenging mountain range, bush, outback - and the desert.

a breath of fresh air

someone or something that is new, different, and exciting

Dictionary example:

Having Eve around has been a breath of fresh air.

Learner example:

The final suggestion is focused on building a leisure centre. Should this be everything the Town Council has promised, it will bring a breath of fresh air.

NOUN [C]

HAIR

hair that is cut short and straight at the top of someone's face

Dictionary example:

Her fringe was nearly in her eyes.

Learner example:

She had [a] long fringe over her forehead that almost covered her pale blue eyes.

EDGE

the outside edge of an area, group, or subject and not the main part

Dictionary examples:

the southern fringe of the city the radical fringe of the party

Learner example:

He is on the fringe of society.

ADJECTIVE [ALWAYS BEFORE NOUN]

not belonging to the main part of a group, activity, or subject

Dictionary example:

fringe politics/theatre

Learner example:

Unfortunately it seems to have won ""new"" currency in view of the latest events directed against

foreigners, minorities and fringe groups.

crack /kræk/

"VERB [I or T]

crack down PHRASAL VERB

to start dealing with bad or illegal behaviour in a more severe way

Dictionary example:

Police are cracking down on crime in the area.

Learner example:

Introducing a totally new policy, dismissing the members of the parliament and cracking down on the leftist underworld, he proved to be a person really dedicated [to] the country.

crack up PHRASAL VERB

INFORMAL to become mentally ill

Dictionary example:

We're worried he'll crack up completely if he doesn't get help.

Learner example:

Nevertheless, one must also bear in mind the fact that, since Douglas was overworked, Olivia had a tedious, boring life and was about to crack up, when the Nawab came to res[c]ue her.

crack (sb) up PHRASAL VERB

INFORMAL to laugh a lot or to make someone laugh a lot

Dictionary example:

His impressions of my Dad really crack me up.

Learner example:

One film that I found hilariously funny was ""Meet the Parents"". Directed by Frank Oz, this film has all the qualifications to make someone crack up.

NOUN

LINE

[C] a line on the surface of something that is damaged

Dictionary example:

Several cups had cracks in them.

Learner example:

Behind the glass doors you could see a Chinese tea-set totally unsuitable for tea drinking as all the cups had cracks but I wasn't allowed to throw [it] away because it had been presented by some relative and that was enough to turn it into an everlasting treasure.

the crack of dawn

very early in the morning

Dictionary example:

He gets up at the crack of dawn.

Learner example:

From the crack of dawn until bed time citizens have to breathe all kinds of gas coming out of cars,

bikes or [factor]ies.

face /feɪs/

"Word family: Nouns: face Verbs: face

Adjectives: facial

NOUN

lose face

to become less respected by others because of something you did

Dictionary example:

The party has lost face with the public by abandoning their original policy on education.

Learner example:

However, many popular people like Pierce Brosnan managed to keep their lives out of the press

and yet be present to meet public demand without losing face.

keep a straight face

to manage to stop yourself from smiling or laughing

Dictionary example:

I can never play jokes on people because I can't keep a straight face.

on the face of it

used when you are describing how a situation seems on the surface

Dictionary example:

On the face of it, it seems like a bargain, but I bet there are hidden costs.

Learner example:

On the face of it, both sides have valid arguments, and it's a difficult balancing act to manage.

in the face of sth

while having to deal with a difficult situation or problem

Dictionary example:

She refused to leave him, in the face of increasing pressure from friends and family.

Learner example:

No doubt, it was rather difficult to like Enid X. She was hardly likely to arouse sympathy in anybody even in the face of death.

fly in the face of SLIGHTLY FORMAL

to be the opposite of what is usual or accepted

Dictionary example:

These recommendations fly in the face of previous advice on safe limits of consumption.

Learner example:

But when we have a look outside our wonderful world, we can easily see that this argument flies in the face of the facts.

a slap in the face

something someone does that insults or upsets you

Dictionary example:

After all that hard work, losing my job was a real slap in the face.

Learner example:

My father noticed that and decided it was high time to take me down a peg or two. He used to work as a volunteer in hospital for children dying for cancer. One day, he took me there. It was like a slap in the face - suddenly I saw a different world. It was a bleak world, without smiles and happy faces.

VERB

let's face it

something that you say before you say something that is unpleasant but true

Dictionary example:

Let's face it, none of us are getting any younger.

Learner example:

Let's face it, a life with [no] physical and mental exercise is something none of us relishes.

Word family:

Nouns: face Verbs: face Adjectives: facial

ADJECTIVE

of or on the face

Dictionary example:

facial expressions/hair

Learner example:

I can still recall the doctor's facial expression when he announced the exciting news [to me].

fulfilment /fʊlˈfɪl.mənt/

"Word family: Nouns: fulfilment Verbs: fulfil

Adjectives: fulfilling

NOUN [U]

PLEASURE

a feeling of pleasure because you are receiving or achieving what you want

Dictionary example:

I hope that you'll find happiness and fulfilment in your life together.

Learner example:

Personally, I firmly believe that a certain degree of compromise should be reached, and that work should combine both economical and emotional stability, and only in that way will we find true

fulfilment through work.

SOMETHING DONE

when someone does something necessary or something that they have wanted or promised to do

Dictionary example:

Being here is the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.

Learner example:

Today's human[s] travel the earth for holidays, going from exotic to esoteric vacation spots to

soothe body and mind, or in fulfilment of a business need.

Word family:

Adjectives: full Adverbs: fully

ADJECTIVE

be full of yourself

to think that you are very important or clever

Dictionary example:

She's been very full of herself since she won that prize.

Learner example:

There is a thing which I consider very important for the upbringing of my own children - to ""teach"" them to be coherent and to think [of] the ""others"" because if you are full of yourself, you are blind and you can't see what is happening around you.

have your hands full to be very busy

Dictionary example:

Shelley has her hands full with three kids under 5.

Learner example:

This very fact made my father work as a slave, as he was the only breadwinner at home, my mother having her hands full with us four.

far /fɑːr/

"ADVERB (farther, farthest or further, furthest)

so far so good INFORMAL

used to say that something has gone well until now

Dictionary example:

It's the first time I've done any decorating, but so far so good.

Learner example:

So far so good, only no one told us they held this point of view before the actual christening took place.

far from doing sth

certainly not doing something

Dictionary example:

Far from being pleased, he was embarrassed by the praise.

Learner example:

Far from asking you to close the airport, which would be quite an irrational request, I am suggesting that you should take some action to improve the situation.

go so far as to do sth

to take the extreme action of doing something

Dictionary example:

He even went so far as to stop her using the telephone.

Learner example:

Our present course of action may go so far as to cause irrevers[i]ble damage not only to our planet but also to the people living upon [it].

go too far

to behave in a way that upsets or annoys other people

Dictionary example:

He's said some stupid things in the past, but this time he's gone too far.

Learner example:

Lucia let her speak and calmly said: ""You really have gone too far this time.""

few and far between

not happening or existing very often

Dictionary example:

Opportunities like this are few and far between.

Learner example:

Jobs in those days were few and far between and for a number of years he was alternating between temporary jobs and unemployment benefit.

be far removed from sth

to be very different from something

Dictionary example:

The princess's world was far removed from reality.

Learner example:

It is the same problem with planned excursions to street markets in Asia, souks in Arabia or even tribes that are far removed from industrialized life in Papua New Guinea or the rainforest of Brazil.

ADJECTIVE [ALWAYS BEFORE NOUN]

the far left/right

used to describe political groups whose opinions are very extreme

Dictionary example:

He belongs to a far right group.

time /taɪm/

"Word family: Nouns: time, timing

Verbs: time

NOUN

time after time

again and again on repeated occasions

Dictionary example:

She goes back to him time after time.

Learner example:

Time after time he stopped and looked around, not sure if [he] was alone.

have no time for sb/sth

to have no respect for someone or something

Dictionary example:

I have no time for people who are racist.

Learner example:

First of all it's hard work, I have no time for la[z]y people.

give sb a hard time

to criticize someone and make them feel guilty about something they have done

Dictionary example:

Ever since I missed the goal, the other players have been giving me a hard time.

Learner example:

I'm not saying that I wasn't normal or anything, I just gave my family a hard time sometimes.

at one time or another

used to talk about an occasion in the past without saying exactly which occasion it was

Dictionary example:

Most of us have made a similar mistake at one time or another.

Learner example:

Haven't we all at one time or another come home from a holiday feeling healthy and strong with a smile on our face thinking, this is what life is about.

at the best of times

used to show that something is not good when it is the best it can be

Dictionary example:

He's not exactly patient at the best of times.

Learner example:

They knew that even at the best of times he looked unpleasant but now he was of [a] completely different [appearance].

VERB [T]

DECIDE WHEN

to decide that something will happen at a particular time

Dictionary example:

We timed our trip to coincide with my cousin's wedding.

put /pʊt/

"VERB [T] (putting, put, put)

SAY

to say something using particular words

Dictionary example:

I need to tell him I don't like it but I don't know how to put it.

Learner example:

Although I agree that there are awful program[me]s on, I think a total ban would be, how shall I put it, exag[g]erate[d].

put sb to death

to kill someone as a punishment

Dictionary example:

She was put to death for her beliefs.

Learner example:

He has become dangerous for Jack and must thus be eliminated, put to death.

put your finger on sth

to understand exactly why a situation is the way it is

Dictionary example:

Something was wrong, but I couldn't put my finger on it.

Learner example:

Something sinister about the picture, he felt, but he couldn't put his finger on what made him

[think this].

put sb/sth first

to consider someone or something to be the most important thing

Dictionary example:

Most couples put their children first when sorting out their problems.

Learner example:

On the other hand, we forget about our personality and the worth that we have as individuals; we put our wishes first, [rather] than what we really need in life.

put your foot down

to tell someone in a strong way that they must do something or must stop doing

something

Dictionary example:

I decided to put my foot down with my staff and insist that they do not send personal emails in

work time.

Learner example:

Finally, I would like to appeal to other readers of the 'Cyprus Weekly', who might even be living near my area, to put your foot down and apply any pressure you can on people who can do something about the situation.

put your foot in it

to say something silly or embarrassing, without intending to

Dictionary example:

I really put my foot in it with your mum - I didn't know she was a teacher herself.

Learner example:

I had really put my foot in it by telling Richard that it would better for him not to come to the party.

put your feet up

to relax, especially by sitting with your feet supported above the ground

Dictionary example:

Put your feet up for half an hour before the kids get home.

Learner example:

You have done your work and now you can put your feet up.

put sb in their place

to let someone know that they are not as important as they think they are

Dictionary example:

He was rather arrogant, but the other kids soon put him in his place.

put sth to one side

to not use or deal with something now, but keep it for a later time

Dictionary example:

She put the papers to one side, intending to read them later.

put sb on the spot

to ask someone a question which is difficult or embarrassing to answer at that time

Dictionary example:

Sorry to put you on the spot, but I really need an answer.

get /get/

"VERB (getting, got, got)

get your act together INFORMAL

to organize your activities so that you can make progress

Dictionary example:

She's so disorganized - I wish she'd get her act together.

Learner example:

He was determined to get his act together and try to find a solution to his problem.

get sth off your chest INFORMAL

to tell someone about something that you have been worried or angry about for a

long time

Dictionary example:

Tell me what's wrong - you'll feel better if you get it off your chest.

Learner example:

Chris is always caring and lends you his ear if there's something you need to get off your chest.

get you nowhere

If something gets you nowhere, it does not help you to succeed.

Dictionary example:

Bad manners will get you nowhere.

Learner example:

As this is a loophole in [the] law system, it's creating a conflict between house-owners and

squatters and getting them nowhere.

get sth over (and done) with

to do something difficult or unpleasant as soon as you can so that you do not have

to worry about it any more

Dictionary example:

I got all my apologies over and done with at the beginning of the meeting.

Learner example:

Not to mention that he knew that he had to get his degree over and done with before he started making serious decisions.

get your own back (on sb)

to do something unpleasant to someone because they have done something unpleasant to you

Dictionary example:

I got my own back by putting a frog in her bed.

Learner example:

There, Kingshaw has the opportunity to get his own back by pushing Hooper down the wall, but he doesn't dare because he is not as cruel as Hooper.

Don't get me wrong INFORMAL

used when you do not want someone to think that you do not like someone or something

Dictionary example:

Don't get me wrong, I like her, but she can be very annoying.

Learner example:

Don't get me wrong, I love my aunts, I really do, but not as houseguests.

get moving INFORMAL

to hurry

Dictionary example:

We're leaving in five minutes, so get moving!

Learner example:

""Oh, look at the time, we must get moving!""

get a move on INFORMAL

to hurry

Dictionary example:

Come on, get a move on!

Learner example:

'All the lights will be switched off in 28 minut[e]s, so I have to get a move on' I said to myself, as I started to write on a new piece of paper.

get out of hand

to become difficult to control

Dictionary example:

It was the end of term and the children were getting a little out of hand.

Learner example:

A few solutions can prevent this problem from getting out of hand.

get the hang of sth

INFORMAL to learn how to do something, especially if it is not obvious or simple

Dictionary example:

I've never used one of these before. - Don't worry, you'll soon get the hang of it.

Learner example:

It was quite hard to get the hang of it, as I didn't have any knowledge of English.

get underway to begin

Dictionary example:

The film festival gets underway on 11th July.

get the picture INFORMAL

used to say that someone understands a situation

Dictionary example:

Oh right, I get the picture.

Learner example:

If you use a photograph though, you can be sure that everyone will get the picture (pun intended)

and pro[b]ably remember the person you're talking about next time they see him.

virgin /ˈvɜː.dʒɪn/

"NOUN [C]

someone who has never had sex

Dictionary example:

She was a virgin at the time of her marriage.

Learner example:

Why was it that everybody assumed that after your 18th birthday you could not possibly be a virgin any more?

ADJECTIVE

Virgin land, forest, etc. has not been used or damaged by people.

Dictionary example:

50 acres of virgin woodland

Learner example:

The balance of nature is threatened by the construction of luxurious hotels in the middle of virgin forests.

NOUN

by virtue of sth FORMAL

because of something

Dictionary example:

She succeeded by virtue of hard work rather than talent.

Learner example:

However, you should take into consideration the expenses, which might be exorbitant by virtue of the fact that you inten[d] to create places with a beautiful ambience and a wide range of comforts offered that will facilitate residents' lives.

GOOD QUALITY

[C] a good quality that someone has

Dictionary example:

Patience is not among his virtues.

Learner example:

The saying 'patience is a virtue' has been very over-used but that does not make it any less true.

ADVANTAGE

[C or U] an advantage or useful quality

Dictionary example:

The great virtue of having a small car is that you can park it easily.

Learner example:

Finally it should be said that despite the negative attitudes towards the overcrowding [of] our good old Earth, longer life seems to have more virtues than drawbacks.

MORAL BEHAVIOUR

[U] behaviour that is morally good

Dictionary example:

She was a woman of great virtue.

Learner example:

Mother Theresa, she was a model of virtue.

fall /fɔːl/

"VERB [I] (fell, fallen)

darkness/night falls LITERARY

used to say that it is becoming dark

Dictionary example:

When darkness fell, I began to feel worried.

Learner example:

He greeted the worms and the slugs, and as darkness fell he retired to the shelter he had built for the night.

BE DEFEATED

to be defeated and start to be controlled by a different leader

Dictionary example:

In 1453 the city fell to the Turks.

BECOME WORSE

to become worse, or start to be in a bad situation or condition

Dictionary examples:

Education standards are continuing to fall.

Empty for 30 years, the building had fallen into ruin.

Learner example:

This impressive, massive 18th-century building which accommodated the Town Hall until recently (5 years ago) has now fallen into disuse.

HANG DOWN

to hang down

Dictionary example:

Her long blonde hair fell softly over her shoulders.

Learner example:

She had gorgeous black hair falling down her back, a creamy complexion and a figure models dream of.

fall on deaf ears

If advice or a request falls on deaf ears, people ignore it.

Dictionary example:

Our pleas for help fell on deaf ears.

Learner example:

His cry for help and for a more meaningful relationship between himself and Mildred invariably fell on deaf ears.

fall into place

When events or details that you did not understand before fall into place, they become easy to understand.

Dictionary example:

When Jo told me she had a twin sister, everything fell into place.

fall prey to sth

to be hurt or deceived by something or someone bad

Dictionary example:

He fell prey to a gang of criminals pretending to be council officials.

Learner example:

As young people do not have experience in living independently in society and are not fully aware of social problems such as drugs and violence, they may easily fall prey to adults who would like to exploit them.

fall short of sth

to not reach a particular level, but only by a small amount

Dictionary example:

Sales for the first half of this year fell just short of the target.

Learner example:

Furthermore, it cannot be denied that public transport falls short of the target set during the planning process.

fall short of sth

to fail to achieve something

Dictionary examples:

His behaviour falls short of what we expect. She just fell short of the grades she needed.

Learner example:

This routine was really wearing me out, but, I didn't want to fall short of my parents' expectations.

keep /kiːp/

"Word family:

Nouns: keeper Verbs: keep

VERB (kept, kept)

keep your eyes open (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something

Dictionary example:

Keep your eyes open for anything unusual.

Learner example:

It has helped us identify and successfully combat many a nutritional hazard, keeping our eyes open to immoderate consumption of some substances and its effects.

keep body and soul together

to be able to pay for your food, clothing and somewhere to live

Dictionary example:

His wages are barely enough to keep body and soul together.

Learner example:

Not only does he keep body and soul together, but he is [o]n good terms with his wife.

keep your eyes peeled (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something

Dictionary example:

Keep your eyes peeled, he should be here any minute.

Learner example:

Ever since, I try to keep my eyes peeled for anything similar.

keep a straight face

to manage to stop yourself from smiling or laughing

Dictionary example:

I can never play jokes on people because I can't keep a straight face.

keep your fingers crossed/ cross your fingers INFORMAL

to hope that things will happen in the way that you want them to

Dictionary examples:

Let's keep our fingers crossed that she gets the job.

We're crossing our fingers and hoping that the weather stays fine.

Learner example:

Wish me luck, Winnie,"" she sighed ""keep your fingers crossed, please"".

keep a cool head

to remain calm in a difficult situation

Dictionary example:

To be successful in business, you need to keep a cool head in negotiations.

Learner example:

Kevin managed to keep a cool head and took over the navigation.

keep your head above water

to have just enough money to live or to continue a business

Dictionary example:

With extra income from private sponsorship, the club is just about managing to keep its head above water.

Learner example:

I also started to realise how much she had on her plate, how very little help she had and how, at times, she had to struggle just like me to keep her head above water.

keep (sth) quiet

to not talk about something that is secret

Dictionary example:

It might be wise to keep this quiet for a while.

Learner example:

They tried to keep it quiet but, somehow, half the village knew about the news in a few days.

keep your temper

to succeed in staying calm and not becoming angry

Dictionary example:

I can't discuss this with you unless you promise to keep your temper.

Learner example:

He never offends people and he keeps his temper even if someone insults him.

keep sb on their toes

to make sure that someone gives all their attention to what they are doing and is ready for anything that might happen

Dictionary example:

We have random inspections to keep everyone on their toes.

eye /aɪ/

"NOUN [C]

catch sb's eye

to get someone's attention by looking at them

Dictionary example:

I tried to catch her eye, but she had already turned away.

Learner example:

All of a sudden she caught my eye and smiled in a sad way.

catch sb's eye

to be attractive or different enough to be noticed by people

Dictionary example:

It was the colour of his jacket that caught my eye.

Learner example:

Dear Sir, I am writing regarding your newly published article about nutrition, which immediately caught my eye as I was reading your magazine.

see eye to eye (with sb)

If two people see eye to eye, they agree with each other.

Dictionary example:

Our teachers don't always see eye to eye with the headmaster.

Learner example:

Although I agree with some of the statements given by the young people, I do not see eye to eye with all of their viewpoints.

keep your eyes peeled (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something

Dictionary example:

Keep your eyes peeled, he should be here any minute.

Learner example:

Ever since, I try to keep my eyes peeled for anything similar.

cry your eyes out

If someone cries their eyes out, they cry a lot about a problem or situation.

Dictionary example:

She cried her eyes out when he left her for another girl.

Learner example:

It wasn't an easy decision to make. Melanie spent many nights crying her eyes out in bed and trying to convince herself that she wasn't doing the right thing.

in the blink of an eye extremely quickly

Dictionary example:

In the blink of an eye, he was gone.

Learner example:

And for all those who keep nagging about losing their favourite regular programmes during such an event, be patient: TV routine will be back into your living rooms in the blink of an eye.

eye contact

when people look at each other, for instance when they are talking to each other

Dictionary example:

There was very little eye contact between them.

Learner example:

I tried to avoid having eye contact with people just because of this humility.

keep your eyes open (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something

Dictionary example:

Keep your eyes open for anything unusual.

Learner example:

It has helped us identify and successfully combat many a nutritional hazard, keeping our eyes open to immoderate consumption of some substances and its effects.

the naked eye

If something can be seen by the naked eye, it is big enough to be seen without special equipment.

Dictionary example:

These bugs are so tiny you cannot see them with the naked eye.

in your mind's eye

in your imagination or memory

Dictionary example:

In my mind's eye, she remains a little girl of six although she's actually a grown woman.

Learner example:

He sees her in his mind's eye, running around barefoot, laughing and squealing, wading in the water and running back out, screaming, trying to get away from the breaking waves.

roll your eyes

DISAPPROVING to move your eyes so that they are looking up, usually to show surprise or disapproval

Dictionary example:

When I asked her when she thought the building work would be finished, she just rolled her eyes.

Learner example:

This attitude is obvious when, for instance, shop assistan[ts] show no patience for the slower

reaction of elderl[y] [people]; when nobody offers a seat to an older person in [an] overcrowded tube; when we roll our eyes about older people's desire for quiet, etc.

F

giggle /ˈgɪg.l/

"VERB [I]

to laugh in a nervous or silly way

Dictionary example:

She started giggling and couldn't stop.

Learner example:

Clara, a thin woman in her late fifties, giggled and her usually so flabby lips trembled as she did so.

VERB [T] (gave, given)

give rise to sth

to cause something

Dictionary example:

The bacteria live in the human body but do not give rise to any symptoms.

Learner example:

That visit gave rise to a fruitful discussion in which various opinions were voiced and here are some comments on them.

give vent to

to express strong anger or another strong feeling

Dictionary example:

He gave vent to the frustration that had been building up inside him.

Learner example:

It's a great fallacy that giving vent to our emotion will be a solution to the problem itself and will lead to anything at all.

give way to sth

to change into something else

Dictionary example:

Her excitement quickly gave way to horror.

Learner example:

This friendship gave way to love, but it was a really difficult situation, after all she was the Managing Director's daughter.

give way

If something gives way, it falls because it is not strong enough to support the weight on top of it.

Dictionary example:

Suddenly the ground gave way under me.

Learner example:

Fred's voice trailed off as he felt his legs give way beneath him.

give sb a hard time

to criticize someone and make them feel guilty about something they have done

Dictionary example:

Ever since I missed the goal, the other players have been giving me a hard time.

Learner example:

I'm not saying that I wasn't normal or anything, I just gave my family a hard time sometimes.

NOUN

LIGHT

[U] strong, bright light that hurts your eyes

Dictionary example:

I get a lot of glare from my computer screen.

Learner example:

As often as not, pressing the switch gave no result or yielded the glare of a naked bulb.

LOOK

[C] a long, angry look

Dictionary example:

She gave me an angry glare.

Learner example:

His glare [said] everything; she was the worst thing that had ever happened to the school.

VERB [I]

to look at someone in an angry way

Dictionary example:

She glared at him and stormed out of the room.

Learner example:

You open the door and ""Surprise!!"": [it's] your mother and father, who ha[ve] just arrived from the country to spend the weekend with you. You glare at your mother, imagining that.

hand /hænd/

"Word family:

Nouns: hand, handful

NOUN [C]

with your bare hands

without using a weapon or tool

Dictionary example:

He strangled the dog with his bare hands.

Learner example:

I learned how to milk a cow, with my bare hands.

on hand or to hand

near to someone or something, and ready to help or be used when necessary

Dictionary example:

Extra supplies will be on hand, should they be needed.

Learner example:

From their point of view, they can always have you on hand whenever they need help, which is the

most important part in their formative years.

at the hands of sb

If you suffer at the hands of someone, they hurt you or treat you badly.

Dictionary example:

She suffered terribly at the hands of her classmates.

Learner example:

She felt abandoned and the loss of Mark's friends at the hands of their old nemesis in the local election had left him with fewer activities for the municipality.

get/lay your hands on sth

to find something

Dictionary example:

Do you know where I can lay my hands on a pair of scissors?

Learner example:

And as long as we remain unable to distinguish between needs and desires, amassing material possessions to gratify our fleeting caprices or alleviate our frustrations, we are bound to be trapped in the illusion that only by laying our hands on the desired goods can we obtain

happiness and peace of mind.

in hand

being worked on or dealt with now

Dictionary example:

Despite the pressures we are determined to get on with the job in hand.

Learner example:

Miss Kenton keeps asking Stevens whether everything is in hand and whether her help is required.

get/gain the upper hand

to get into a stronger position than someone else so that you are controlling a situation

Dictionary example:

Government troops are gradually gaining the upper hand over the rebels.

Learner example:

He knew that Hooper had got the upper hand and that there was no escape.

get out of hand

to become difficult to control

Dictionary example:

It was the end of term and the children were getting a little out of hand.

Learner example:

A few solutions can prevent this problem from getting out of hand.

a free hand

permission to make your own decisions about how you want to do something

Dictionary example:

The students were given a free hand as far as designing their product was concerned.

Learner example:

But unlike my parents, I wouldn't give my children a free hand in solving their problems.

have your hands full to be very busy

Dictionary example:

Shelley has her hands full with three kids under 5.

Learner example:

This very fact made my father work as a slave, as he was the only breadwinner at home, my mother having her hands full with us four.

take the law into your own hands

to do something illegal in order to punish someone because you know that the law will not punish that person

Dictionary example:

The police did nothing about the thefts, so they took the law into their own hands.

Learner example:

Therefore, locals are scared to death, leading to their taking the law into their own hands.

VERB [T]

you have to hand it to sb INFORMAL

used when you want to show that you admire someone

Dictionary example:

You have to hand it to Mick, he's done a good job on that kitchen.

Learner example:

She had saved the bu[si]ness, and of course everybody knew it. Begrudgingly they'd had to hand it to her.

heart /hɑːt/

"NOUN

at heart

used to say what someone is really like

Dictionary example:

I'm just a kid at heart.

Learner example:

I also thought that she was brave at heart.

open your heart

to tell someone your secret thoughts and feelings

Dictionary example:

That night, she opened her heart to me and I think that's when I fell in love with her.

Learner example:

It is during this excessively dramatic conversation that George opening up his heart, tells her about his interpretation of her unhappiness with Cecil.

take sth to heart

If you take criticism or advice to heart, you think about it seriously, often because

it upsets you

Dictionary example:

Don't take it to heart - he was only joking about your hair.

Learner example:

I hope you will take my advi[c]e to heart.

lose heart

to stop believing that you can succeed

Dictionary example:

Don't lose heart, there'll be plenty more chances for promotion.

Learner example:

In that way, we learn to deal with our problems and not to lose heart.

a change of heart

If you have a change of heart, you change your opinion or feelings about something.

Dictionary example:

At first he said he wouldn't help us, but he seems to have had a change of heart.

Learner example:

The narrator didn't tell her big secret to Inder Lal and after a change of heart she decides to keep the baby.

dear to sb/sb's heart

If something is dear to someone or dear to their heart, it is very important to them.

Dictionary example:

The charity was very dear to his heart.

Learner example:

Among all the places I enjoyed visiting, the city of Singapore is especially dear to my heart.

on /ɒn/

"PREPOSITION

be on the verge of sth/doing sth

to be going to happen or do something very soon

Dictionary example:

The company is on the verge of financial disaster.

Learner example:

I was on the verge of depression, when I decided to take the control of my own life.

have/carry sth on you

to have something with you

Dictionary example:

Do you have your driving licence on you?

on no account; not on any account not for any reason or in any situation

Dictionary example:

On no account must these records be changed.

Learner example:

Mary did not want Martin to leave on any account, let alone move to a foreign country.

be on the brink of sth

to be in a situation where something bad is going to happen very soon

Dictionary example:

The two countries are on the brink of war.

Learner example:

By the end of the 21st century, Earth was on the brink of destruction. The atmosphere was polluted, the seas were poisoned, the animals were just a distant memory.

be on the cards

to be likely to happen

Dictionary example:

Do you think marriage is on the cards?

be on cloud nine INFORMAL

to be extremely happy and excited

Dictionary example:

After I heard I'd got the job, I was on cloud nine!

Learner example:

But now, after the promise in which both said ""yes"", she was on cloud nine.

on the dot

at that exact time

Dictionary example:

We have to leave at 7.30 on the dot.

Learner example:

He gave him an address and told him to be there at six on the dot.

on occasion(s)

sometimes, but not often

Dictionary example:

I only drink alcohol on occasion.

Learner example:

As I am writing this I am begin[n]ing to conclude that there are very few disadvantages of banning private cars, only that for individuals it is far easier and [more] conven[i]ent to use a private car and not rely on our public transport, which can be on occasions very unreliable.

be on the verge of sth/doing sth

to be going to happen or to do something very soon

Dictionary example:

a company on the verge of financial disaster

Learner example:

I was on the verge of depression, when I decided to take control of my own life.

be on the same wavelength

If two people are on the same wavelength, they have the same way of thinking and it is easy for them to understand each other.

Dictionary example:

We chatted occasionally, but I never really felt we were on the same wavelength.

Learner example:

We were on the same wavelength and we therefore started our own research.

(be) on the line

If someone's job, reputation, life, etc. is on the line, they may lose it.

Dictionary example:

If we don't win the contract, all our jobs are on the line.

Learner example:

The person who hopes to achieve success shouldn't be afraid of taking risks and sometimes putting his or her career on the line for the sake of gaining much bigger benefits.

be on edge

to be nervous or worried

Dictionary example:

Sorry for shouting - I'm a bit on edge today.

Learner example:

I was consequently on edge all the time and was not able to have fun as much as the others did.

on the face of it

used when you are describing how a situation seems on the surface

Dictionary example:

On the face of it, it seems like a bargain, but I bet there are hidden costs.

Learner example:

On the face of it, both sides have valid arguments, and it's a difficult balancing act to manage.

be on (good) form

If someone is in form or on form, they are feeling or performing well, and if they are off form they are not feeling or performing well.

Dictionary example:

Harry was on good form last night.

be on (your) guard

to be ready to deal with something difficult that might happen

Dictionary example:

Companies were warned to be on their guard for suspicious packages.

Learner example:

However, we should be on guard, so as not to let the things escape our control.

on hand or to hand

near to someone or something, and ready to help or be used when necessary

Dictionary example:

Extra supplies will be on hand, should they be needed.

Learner example:

From their point of view, they can always have you on hand whenever they need help, which is the most important part in their formative years.

on impulse

suddenly and without thinking first

Dictionary example:

I tend to act on impulse.

Learner example:

I'm seeing Milly as a capricious girl who, like most teenagers, enjoy[s] buying, although I think that she buys on impulse.

on the part of sb; on sb's part done or experienced by someone

Dictionary examples:

This is a major sacrifice on the part of the unions.

The accident was caused by carelessness on the instructor's part.

Learner example:

It seems that international sports competitions have always tended to attract a great amount of interest on the part of the media and have consistently been popular with sports fans the world over.

on principle

If you refuse to do something on principle, you refuse to do it because you think it

is morally wrong.

Dictionary example:

She doesn't wear fur on principle.

Learner example:

They granted themselves a little celebration: it was time to keep the promise made four years before; so they bought some bottles of wine and got drunk (the[y] who, on principle, never drank alcohol).

on the side

in addition to your main job

Dictionary example:

She does a bit of bar work on the side.

Learner example:

At work, they gave her the worst jobs to do. She knew she didn't have much choice but she still tried to find something else on the side.

on the spot immediately

Dictionary example:

I accepted the job on the spot.

Learner example:

And when it was Meredith's turn to tell her about her impending wedding, she felt she was going to have a heart attack on the spot.

on the spur of the moment

If you do something on the spur of the moment, you do it suddenly, without planning it.

Dictionary example:

On the spur of the moment we decided to go to London for the day.

Learner example:

In reality, many people buy things on the spur of the moment only to discover later that they, in fact, do not [meet] their expect[at]ions.

on the threshold of sth

at the start of a new and important time or development

Dictionary example:

We're on the threshold of a new era in European relations.

Learner example:

On the threshold of the third millen[n]ium, there is no stopping progress.

ADVERB

PERFORMING

performing

Dictionary examples:

Hurry up with the make-up - I'm on in ten minutes. The audience cheered as the band came on.

Learner example:

My faith in youth started to fade but then a boy named Josh came on.

break /breɪk/

"Word family:

Nouns: break, outbreak

Verbs: break

Adjectives: breakable, broken

VERB (broke, broken)

BECOME KNOWN

[I or T] If news or a story breaks, or if someone breaks it, it becomes known by the public for the first time.

Dictionary example:

News of the scandal broke just before the election.

break the news to sb

to tell someone about something unpleasant that has happened

Dictionary example:

Who's going to break the news to his wife?

Learner example:

She broke the news to his wife Helen.

break free

to suddenly escape or become separate from something

Dictionary example:

The prisoner broke free while the guards weren't looking.

break free

to escape from someone or something that is controlling you

Dictionary example:

She tried to break free from the social conditioning of her upbringing.

Learner example:

I would like to revisit there one day as it's firmly connected to my ad[o]lescence, when I struggled to break free from my peers, [and] tried to establish my own identity.

STORM

[I] If a storm breaks, it starts suddenly.

Dictionary example:

The storm broke just as we reached home.

Learner example:

Suddenly the moon disappeared behind the clouds and, in a few moments, a violent storm broke.

WEATHER

[I] If the weather breaks, it changes suddenly, and usually becomes worse.

Dictionary example:

The weather is due to break at the weekend.

break new ground

to do something that is different to anything that has been done before

Dictionary example:

Their research is really breaking new ground.

Learner example:

Paul decided to break new ground in music no matter how long it took.

NOUN [C]

OPPORTUNITY

a lucky opportunity

Dictionary examples:

His big break came when he was offered a part in a TV series.

Meeting Tom was my lucky break.

in /ɪn/

"PREPOSITION

CAUSE

used to show when doing one thing is the cause of another thing happening

Dictionary examples:

In refusing to work abroad, she missed an excellent job opportunity.

The government banned tobacco advertising and, in doing so, contributed greatly to the nation's health.

Learner example:

According to Montaigne's point of view, children and even ""older"" people ought to travel as much

as possible. In doing so, they would receive an education that no school could provide them with.

in the dark

not knowing about something because other people are not telling you

Dictionary example:

They kept us in the dark about their plans.

Learner example:

Peter had always kept her in the dark about the reason for their fight.

in anticipation (of)

expecting something to happen or in preparation for something happening

Dictionary example:

She's even decorated the spare room in anticipation of your visit.

Learner example:

This has sometimes resulted in the comic phenomenon of people travelling to a distant country, in anticipation of encountering strange and original lifestyles, only to come across situations not very different [from] the one they have left in their own countries.

in attendance FORMAL

present at an event

Dictionary example:

They have doctors in attendance at every match.

Learner example:

Professional coach[e]s are in attendance and the members can have proper lessons.

be in awe of sb

to feel great respect for and sometimes fear of someone

Dictionary example:

As children we were rather in awe of our grandfather.

Learner example:

As I was the eldest of [the] siblings, they used to respect all my orders and [even] now, they are a bit in awe of me.

in the blink of an eye extremely quickly

Dictionary example:

In the blink of an eye, he was gone.

Learner example:

And for all those who keep nagging about losing their favourite regular programmes during such an event, be patient: TV routine will be back into your living rooms in the blink of an eye.

in cold blood

in a cruel way, without showing any emotion

Dictionary example:

He shot three policemen in cold blood.

Returning to the story, when I arrived, I went directly to Hillton Avenue where I should have met 005, but when I arrived at the meeting point I found him lying on the floor with two shots in his back; he had been murdered in cold blood.

be in the same boat

to be in the same unpleasant situation as other people

Dictionary example:

She complains that she doesn't have enough money, but we're all in the same boat.

Learner example:

Unemployment and its consequences is still a major problem. Now we are in the same boat.

in the clear

not in a difficult situation or having problems any more

Dictionary example:

We have had money problems but we should be in the clear by next year.

Learner example:

""You're in the clear, you don't have to be afraid any more"", it said.

in confidence

If you tell something to someone in confidence, you do not want them to tell anyone else.

Dictionary example:

I'm sorry, she told me that in confidence.

Learner example:

His real name isn't Piggy but he told Ralph in confidence that they called him that in school because of his appearance.

in conjunction with sth/sb

working, used, or happening with something or someone else

Dictionary example:

Our librarians use their knowledge in conjunction with the computer network.

Learner example:

Therefore if the banning of private cars takes place in conjunction with development in the public transport system in that city, this whole development will [have] more advantages despite some slight difficulties at the start.

in the name of sth

If bad things are done in the name of something, they are done in order to help that thing succeed.

Dictionary example:

So much blood has been spilt in the name of religion.

Recently, a Swedish priest compared homosexuality to cancer, and he did it in the name of religion.

in the vicinity (of sth) FORMAL

in the area near a place

Dictionary example:

A number of buildings in the vicinity of the fire were damaged.

Learner example:

This centre would provide new sports and leisure premises for our town and would certainly attract young people from other towns in the vicinity as well.

in a big way INFORMAL

used to say that someone or something does something to a large degree

Dictionary example:

They celebrate birthdays in a big way.

Learner example:

Tourism helps Greece's national economy - which is not at its best - in a big way.

in sb's words

used when you repeat what someone said

Dictionary example:

In the manager's words, the game was 'a total disaster'.

Learner example:

In the immortal words of the bard ""... if music be the food of love play on!""

in all likelihood almost certainly

Dictionary example:

The facilities are wasted on people who in all likelihood will not use them.

Learner example:

In all likelihood, you will have to work during the weekends, even in summer, so I firmly believe that loving your job is very important.

be in line with sth

to be similar to and suitable for something

Dictionary example:

They were offered a pay increase in line with inflation.

Learner example:

The other two courses, at 5%, are still in line with the national average.

in memory of sb

If you do something in memory of a dead person, you do it to show your respect or love for them.

Dictionary example:

They built a statue in memory of those who died in the fire.

Learner example:

You see, every year our family performs a certain gathering in memory of my brother who was killed in a plane crash in 1991 known as the C130 disaster.

in your mind's eye

in your imagination or memory

Dictionary example:

In my mind's eye, she remains a little girl of six although she's actually a grown woman.

Learner example:

He sees her in his mind's eye, running around barefoot, laughing and squealing, wading in the water and running back out, screaming, trying to get away from the breaking waves.

in miniature

If something is in miniature, it is a very small copy of something else.

Dictionary example:

a model of the ship in miniature

Learner example:

Thirdly a co-educational school is a society in miniature and it has many practical advantages.

be in the mood for sth/to do sth

to want to do or have something

Dictionary example:

I'm not really in the mood for shopping at the moment.

Learner example:

Should you be in the mood for a walk around the lake then go for it.

in effect

used to say what the real situation is

Dictionary example:

This means, in effect, that the plan has been scrapped.

Learner example:

However, if the government increases the amount of money they pay to the unemployed, that in effect means higher taxes for the citizens which will cause strikes and various other problems.

in essence

used to emphasize the most important idea or quality of something

Dictionary example:

In essence, its purpose is to contain information.

Learner example:

In essence, homelessness means that you don't have a home and because of this you are living on the streets.

in the face of sth

while having to deal with a difficult situation or problem

Dictionary example:

She refused to leave him, in the face of increasing pressure from friends and family.

Learner example:

No doubt, it was rather difficult to like Enid X. She was hardly likely to arouse sympathy in anybody even in the face of death.

in favour of sb/sth

If you refuse or get rid of someone or something in favour of someone or something else, you choose them instead.

Dictionary example:

They dropped him from the team in favour of a much younger player.

Learner example:

The city council should revise the airport project [... and] change the current location of the airport in favour of a more isolated area.

in a flash

INFORMAL immediately, or very quickly

Dictionary example:

I'll be back in a flash.

Learner example:

He took it and, in a flash, he came up to the surface.

in hand

being worked on or dealt with now

Dictionary example:

Despite the pressures we are determined to get on with the job in hand.

Learner example:

Miss Kenton keeps asking Stevens whether everything is in hand and whether her help is required.

in all honesty

used when you are saying what you really think or feel about something

Dictionary example:

In all honesty, I'd rather not go.

Learner example:

It is easy to say that government funding should be raised to make classes smaller and materials more relevant, but in all honesty, Danish schools are working very well indeed.

in my humble opinion

used to give your opinion about something, often when you are sure you are right

Dictionary example:

In my humble opinion, that's the wrong decision.

Learner example:

In my humble opinion, there's no such thing as a uniform celebrity, good, bad or otherwise.

in its infancy

Something that is in its infancy has only just begun to develop.

Dictionary example:

In the 1950s, space travel was in its infancy.

in the interest(s) of sth

in order to achieve a particular situation or quality

Dictionary example:

In the interest of safety, passengers are advised to wear their seat belts at all times.

Learner example:

First of all, do make sure that the front door is always locked. In the interests of everybody's security, it is essential to remember [this].

in isolation

alone, or separately from other people, places, or things

Dictionary example:

These poems cannot be considered in isolation.

Learner example:

In conclusion, it is my opinion that the problem of parking space cannot be solved in isolation.

in part FORMAL

partly

Dictionary example:

He is in part to blame for the accident.

Learner example:

Technology is in part to blame.

in perspective

when things are in perspective, you think about them in a sensible and realistic

way, and understand how important or unimportant they really are

You must keep things in perspective - the overall situation isn't really that bad. When you see pictures of their suffering, it puts your own problems in perspective.

Learner example:

I think it will enable me to see things more in perspective.

in place

in the correct position

Dictionary example:

The chairs are all in place.

Learner example:

I looked neat and clean even after the wildest games in the school yard, with all the ribbons that tied my long hair in place.

in place

If a rule, system, etc. is in place, it has started to exist.

Dictionary example:

There are now laws in place to prevent this from happening.

Learner example:

Let's take [the] example of Mexico City, where such restrictions have been in place since early 2000.

in principle

If you agree with something in principle, you agree with the idea or plan although you do not know the details or you do not know if it will be possible.

Dictionary example:

They have approved the changes in principle.

Learner example:

In principle, one can agree with both positions pointed out in this statement.

in all probability

used to mean that something is very likely

Dictionary example:

She will, in all probability, have left before we arrive.

Learner example:

Anybody who can fulfill the above conditions will in all probability be successful.

in the process

If something is being done, and something else happens in the process, the

second thing happens as a result of doing the first thing.

She stood up to say hello and spilled her drink in the process. The tunnel was built, but many lives were lost in the process.

Learner example:

If an attempt is made to move them to another location they will probably die in the process.

be in the process of doing sth

to have started doing something

Dictionary example:

We're in the process of painting our apartment.

Learner example:

This feeling of affinity is especially important for young people and teenagers who are in the process of creating their own identity and I also believe that sportsmen and sportswomen make great role models.

in proportion to

If something changes in proportion to another thing, it changes to the same degree as that thing.

Dictionary example:

Your tax payment increases in proportion to your salary.

Learner example:

One aspect of the question is the fact that a sportsman's salary is supposedly not in proportion to the number of hours he work[s].

sb/sth in question

the person or thing that is being discussed

Dictionary example:

He claims that he was in the pub with his girlfriend on the night in question.

Learner example:

While this is not necessarily false, it should be borne in mind that the events in question are by no means boring or uninteresting.

in the red

If your bank account is in the red, you have spent more money than there was in it.

Dictionary example:

I expect I'm in the red again.

Learner example:

Her bank account was in the red.

in retrospect

thinking now about something in the past

Dictionary example:

In retrospect, I should probably have told her.

Learner example:

But now I could in retrospect conclude that it was too much: that tat[t]oo displaying a cannabis leaf should have been enough for me to at least wonder [whether] something was really wrong with my son.

in a rut

in a bad situation where you do the same things all the time, or where it is impossible to make progress

Dictionary example:

He seems to be stuck in a rut at the moment.

Learner example:

Financial security, all the, let me call them, background benefits are important, but if you do not love what you do, soon you will become bitter, stuck in a rut or worse - you will suffer from depression.

be in good taste

to be acceptable in a way that will not upset or anger people

Dictionary example:

His speech was in good taste.

Learner example:

I therefore t[h]ought that it would be in good taste to write about two of them.

be in bad/poor taste

to be unacceptable in a way that will upset or anger people

Dictionary example:

He told a joke about a plane crash which I thought was in rather poor taste.

in no uncertain terms

in a direct and often angry way

Dictionary example:

I told him to go away in no uncertain terms.

Learner example:

Intellectuals are used to saying in no uncertain terms that money represents the bad side of the sport.

be in tune with sb/sth

to understand what someone wants or needs or to understand a situation and act in a way that is suitable for it

Dictionary example:

The government is not in tune with the voters.

Learner example:

I am not exactly in tune with all the latest trends but I know which styles give me the most satisfaction.

in that

because of or for this reason

Dictionary example:

The course is good in that it provides a very practical training.

Learner example:

Nowadays it is widely argued that professional sports are damaging to people's health in that they involve gruelling training sessions as an integral part of the occupation.

ADVERB

be in for sth INFORMAL

If someone is in for a surprise, treat, shock, etc., it will happen to them soon.

Dictionary example:

If he thinks looking after a baby is easy, he's in for a shock.

Learner example:

Holidays do revive the spirit and renew the soul, provided you have a positive attitude towards life and bear in mind that they are just a fragment of real[i]ty. Otherwise, you are in for a disappointment.

NOUN

the ins and outs of sth

the details of a particular subject

Dictionary example:

the ins and outs of the legal system

Learner example:

I knew all the ins and outs of every story but I couldn't stay one single day in bed without reading

it.

millennium /mɪˈlen.i.əm/

"NOUN [C] (millennia)

a period of 1000 years, often calculated from the date when Christ is thought to

have been born

Dictionary example:

We had a party to celebrate the new millennium.

Learner example:

On the cusp of a new millennium, the importance of holidays in this modernized, stressful world

[is] undeniable.

NOUN [C]

blow your mind INFORMAL

If something blows your mind, you are very excited or surprised by it.

Dictionary example:

There was one scene in the film that really blew my mind.

Learner example:

'MOMO', written by Michael Ende, is a book that blew my mind as a child and as an adult, I have read it many times, but the last time has been a while now.

have sth on your mind

to think or worry about something

Dictionary example:

Jim has a lot on his mind at the moment.

spring to mind

If an idea springs to mind, it is the first thing you think of.

Dictionary example:

Learner example:

A musical event that clearly springs to mind is a Rolling Stones concert in Parken, Copenhagen, which I attended in June 1998.

in your mind's eye

in your imagination or memory

Dictionary example:

In my mind's eye, she remains a little girl of six although she's actually a grown woman.

Learner example:

He sees her in his mind's eye, running around barefoot, laughing and squealing, wading in the water and running back out, screaming, trying to get away from the breaking waves.

speak your mind

to say exactly what you think without worrying if it will upset anyone

Dictionary example:

She has very strong opinions and she's not afraid to speak her mind.

Learner example:

His father is even more eccentric, speaks his mind and has no manners at all.

cast your mind back to try to remember

Dictionary example:

If you cast your mind back, you might recall that I never promised to go.

Learner example:

Thus, when I pick one of these stones, I cast my mind back to the specific place where I found it, the person I was, the particular moment.

frame of mind

the way someone feels at a particular time

Dictionary example:

She was in a much more positive frame of mind today.

Learner example:

Naturally, these are more difficult factors to cope with for older people, but it just happens to anyone if you're not in the right frame of mind.

peace of mind

a feeling that you do not need to worry about anything

Dictionary example:

We lock our doors and windows at night for peace of mind.

Learner example:

After all, successfully earning your living guarantees peace of mind.

presence of mind

the ability to deal with a difficult situation quickly and effectively

Dictionary example:

She had the presence of mind to press the alarm.

Learner example:

Frank tried to hide a bag behind his back with great presence of mind.

slip your mind

If something slips your mind, you forget about it.

Dictionary example:

I meant to tell her Nigel had phoned, but it completely slipped my mind.

Learner example:

There was something but it slipped my mind before I reached it.

VERB

mind you

something you say before saying the opposite of what you have just said

Dictionary example:

We had a lovely holiday in France. Mind you, the weather was appalling.

Learner example:

Mind you, that can well be a reflection of someone's personality as it could be argued that it demonstrates insecurity!

mind your own business

used to tell someone in a rude way that you do not want them to ask about something private

Dictionary example:

I wish you'd just mind your own business.

Learner example:

Despite knowing that he was only doing what he thought was best for me, I couldn't stand him, and I often told him to mind his own business.

tooth /tuːθ/ (PLURAL teeth)

"NOUN [C]

grit your teeth

to accept a difficult situation and deal with it in a determined way

Dictionary example:

I don't particularly enjoy running, but I grit my teeth and do it in order to keep fit.

NOUN

the top

the most important position in a company, team, etc.

Dictionary example:

At forty he was already at the top of his profession.

Learner example:

Besides she climbed [to] the top of her profession, when no one expected her to.

over the top INFORMAL

too extreme and not suitable

Dictionary example:

I thought her performance was way over the top.

Learner example:

In addition to that, many so-called ""stars"" have that certain over the top attitude, which would not be welcome in normal life.

be/feel on top of the world INFORMAL

to be very happy

Dictionary example:

I had just won a major tournament and I was feeling on top of the world.

Learner example:

I felt like I was on top of the world and nothing could take that happiness from me.

from top to bottom completely

Dictionary example:

I've searched the house from top to bottom and still can't find it.

Learner example:

Very often we can see someone in black, from top to bottom, or in white.

VERB [T] (-pp-)

MOST IMPORTANT

to be the most important, most successful, etc

Dictionary examples:

The record topped the charts for five weeks. She topped the bill at the festival.

Learner example:

It was in summer 1993 when Paul McCartney proved once again that he still is topping the bill.

be topped with sth

to be covered with something

Dictionary example:

lemon tart topped with cream

Learner example:

Again leave some room for the sweets, displayed on a tray: cream caramel topped with hazelnut

ice cream or a slice of chocolate tart.

cast /kɑːst/

"VERB [T OFTEN PASSIVE]

ACTORS

to choose an actor for a particular part in a film or play

Dictionary example:

Why is he always cast as a criminal?

Learner example:

And this ""universal force"" of this book made [it] possible to already have two cinematographic versions; the first, really similar to the book, casts Colin Firth as the main character, the second, an American version of the book, changed the football passion [to] a baseball madness, showing

well how universal this story could be.

cast a/your vote

to vote

Dictionary example:

Many people cast their votes for the opposition.

Learner example:

When the day of the General Elections came, no woman cast her vote [for] James and he lost his

seat to a man from a minority party, not even the man representing the Labour Party.

cast your mind back

to try to remember

Dictionary example:

If you cast your mind back, you might recall that I never promised to go.

Learner example:

Thus, when I pick one of these stones, I cast my mind back to the specific place where I found it, the person I was, the particular moment.

cast a spell on sb

to seem to use magic to attract someone

Dictionary example:

The city had cast a spell on me and I never wanted to leave.

Learner example:

Even objects that came indirectly into our possession may cast an emotional spell on us.

cast a spell on sb

to use magic to make something happen to someone

Dictionary example:

The witch cast a spell on her.

The good fairy, taking pity upon Laura, prevented her from going on living without her prince - which would have been too painful for her - by casting a spell upon the castle that put every one of its inhabitants [in]to a deep, dreamless sleep.

cast doubt on sb/sth

to make people feel uncertain about someone or something

Dictionary examples:

Witnesses have cast doubt on the suspect's innocence.

A leading scientist has cast doubts on government claims that the drug is safe.

Learner example:

Wars lead to suffering, tears and [the] death of many people. They cast doubt on our humanity and values, especially in countries where the right to live is the princip[al] one.

LIGHT

LITERARY to send light or shadow in a particular direction

Dictionary example:

The moon cast a white light into the room.

Learner example:

The first blush of the morning was casting a yellow soft light over the landscape.

wild /waɪld/

"Word family:

Adjectives: wild Adverbs: wildly

ADJECTIVE

run wild

If someone, especially a child, runs wild, they behave as they want to and no one

controls them.

Dictionary example:

Their nine-year-old son is left to run wild.

Learner example:

My parents decided to move to a small village when I was just a kid. Shortly after we settled [in], my parents decided that I was running wild and that it was time for me to receive some sort of

education.

run wild

If someone's imagination runs wild, they are not able to control their thoughts.

Dictionary example:

It was getting dark and my imagination was starting to run wild.

Learner example:

Her imagination started to run wild and she set about think[ing] about the dark corridors, the secret passages and the obscure dungeons that the castle might hide.

a wild accusation/guess/rumour, etc.

something that you say which is not based on facts and is probably wrong

Dictionary example:

You can't go round making wild accusations like that.

WEATHER

with a lot of wind, rain, etc.

Dictionary example:

a wild and stormy night

Learner example:

They played with the shadows of the night and danced with the sound of a wild wind.

beyond your wildest dreams

bigger or better than anything you could imagine or hope for

Dictionary example:

The house was beyond my wildest dreams.

Learner example:

[It] was beyond my wildest dreams.

not/never in your wildest dreams

used to say that something is better than anything you could imagine or hope for

Dictionary example:

Never in my wildest dreams had I thought I would be offered a starring role in Hollywood.

Learner example:

Not even in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that finding a diary was to have such

fortunate consequences for me.

force /fɔːs/

"Word family: Nouns: force Verbs: force

Adjectives: forceful

NOUN

INFLUENCE

[C or U] power and influence, or a person or thing that has it

Dictionary example:

the forces of good/evil

Learner example:

Each boy is a battleground where the forces of confusion wage war on the forces of good.

a force to be reckoned with

a very powerful person or organization

Dictionary example:

His Dad is a force to be reckoned with.

Learner example:

No longer a remote, backward, unimportant country, it became a force to be reckoned with in Europe.

join forces

When two people or groups join forces, they act or work together.

Dictionary example:

She joined forces with her sister-in-law to set up a restaurant.

Learner example:

The second proposal is that we join forces with Green Peace in picketing the refinery, this of course is up to the individual members.

in/into force

If a law, rule, etc. is in force, it is being used, and if it comes into force, it starts to be used.

Dictionary example:

The new law came into force in April.

Learner example:

Perhaps with the coming of the millen[n]ium, new laws would come into force and less corruption would do people a lot of good and perhaps the dream of a better and blooming future would become [a] reality with peace all over the planet.

VERB [T]

USE POWER

to use physical strength or effort to make something move or open

Dictionary examples:

Move your leg up gently when you're doing this exercise, but don't force it. If you force the zip, it'll break.

She forced the window open.

Learner example:

They forced the door, entered the house and found Mary under the effect of drugs and h[er]

boyfriend on the floor dead.

Word family:

Nouns: force Verbs: force Adjectives: forceful

ADJECTIVE

expressing opinions strongly and demanding attention or action

Dictionary example:

a forceful manner/personality

Learner example:

But she was a forceful woman who knew how to deal with her problems.

lose /luːz/ (lost, lost)

"Word family: Nouns: loss Verbs: lose

Adjectives: lost

VERB

lose your cool

to suddenly become very angry

Dictionary example:

She lost her cool and started shouting.

lose count

to forget how many of something there is

Dictionary example:

I've lost count of the number of times she's arrived late.

Learner example:

I lost count [of] how often I heard this sentence when I used to work for a drug company.

lose face

to do something so that people stop respecting you

Dictionary example:

The party has lost face with the public by abandoning their original policy on education.

Learner example:

However, many popular people like Pierce Brosnan managed to keep their lives out of the press and yet be present to meet public demand without losing face.

lose heart

to stop believing that you can succeed

Dictionary example:

Don't lose heart, there'll be plenty more chances for promotion.

Learner example:

In that way, we learn to deal with our problems and not to lose heart.

lose sight of sth

to forget about an important idea or fact because you are thinking too much about other, less important things

Dictionary example:

We mustn't lose sight of the original aims of this project.

Learner example:

Little do we realize that in the process we lose sight of the fundamentals, which in this case is the protection of our environment.

lose sleep over something to worry about something

Dictionary example:

I know she's angry with me, but I'm not losing any sleep over it.

Learner example:

[There] was just one house, a magnificent mansion behind a high fence, that bothered me a bit.

No-one from there came to meet me. But in the hassle of the first few weeks I was simply too busy to lose any sleep over it.

serve /sɜːv/

"Word family:

Nouns: servant, service

Verbs: serve Adjectives: self-service

VERB

PRISON

[T] to be in prison for a period of time

Dictionary example:

Williams, 42, is serving a four-year jail sentence.

Learner example:

It all came to me in prison where I was serving [a] two-year sentence.

serve a/the purpose

to have a use

Dictionary example:

These small village shops serve a very useful purpose.

Learner example:

They introduced meetings at Miss Kenton's parlour which were held every evening and served [the] purpose of discussing house running.

Word family:

Nouns: setting Verbs: set

VERB (setting, set, set)

set guidelines/standards, etc.

to establish guidelines, standards, etc. that must be followed

Dictionary example:

Our school sets very high standards and most students achieve them.

Learner example:

But I do know that even though my parents were indulgent, affectionate and warm, they still quite clearly set standards on how I was supposed to behave.

set sth down/on, etc.

to put something somewhere

Dictionary example:

She set the vase down on the table.

set fire to sth; set sth on fire

to make something start burning, usually to cause damage

Dictionary example:

Enemy troops set fire to the village.

Learner example:

At this point nothing made sense anymore, so I just watched while Jake set the car on fire.

set sail

to start a journey by boat or ship

Dictionary example:

We set sail for home the next day.

Learner example:

What made things turn from grey to black was that soon after my return I was invited to set sail to the Spanish islands.

set your sights on sth

to decide to achieve something

Dictionary example:

She's set her sights on becoming a doctor.

Learner example:

This resemblance was the final silent argument that convinced Wormold to promise Milly the expensive and beautiful horse she had set her sights on.

ADJECTIVE

fixed and never changing

Dictionary examples:

Most people work for a set number of hours each week. I have no set routine.

Learner example:

Even if there is a set number of standard models, there is always ample room for personal choice

according to your taste.

best /best/

"ADJECTIVE

your best bet

Someone’s best bet is the action most likely to be successful.

Dictionary example:

If you want to get to the theater on time, your best bet is to get a cab.

Learner example:

The international cuisine chef can whip up some delicious creations from time to time; but your

best bet is to go for one of the delicious steaks served.

ADVERB

know best

to be the most suitable person to have responsibility and make important

decisions

Dictionary example:

When it comes to dealing with my own son, I think I know best.

Learner example:

How true is that expression ""Father knows best"". If my father [was alive] today he would probably

be laughing his head off.

NOUN

at best

used to show that the most positive way of considering something is still not good

Dictionary example:

At best, only 50 per cent of babies born at 24 weeks will survive.

Learner example:

Then, due to the social standards, the old find themselves being abandoned and helpless. At best, such people are hospitalized.

for the best

If something is for the best, it seems unpleasant now, but will improve a situation in the future.

Dictionary example:

Divorce is always painful, but it really was for the best.

Learner example:

It's a kind of sad thing to think about but maybe it's for the best.

bring out the best in sb

to cause someone's best qualities to show

Dictionary example:

This chance to work with young people has really brought out the best in him.

Learner example:

TV can be a baby-sitter, but such a relationship is not going to bring out the best in a child.

at the best of times

used to show that something is not good when it is the best it can be

Dictionary example:

He's not exactly patient at the best of times.

Learner example:

They knew that even at the best of times he looked unpleasant but now he was of [a] completely

different [appearance].

name /neɪm/

"Word family: Nouns: name Verbs: name

Adverbs: namely

NOUN

in the name of sth

If bad things are done in the name of something, they are done in order to help

that thing succeed.

Dictionary example:

So much blood has been spilt in the name of religion.

Learner example:

Recently, a Swedish priest compared homosexuality to cancer, and he did it in the name of religion.

make a name for yourself

to become famous or respected by a lot of people

Dictionary example:

He's been trying to make a name for himself in the music business.

Learner example:

Secondly, only [a] few sportsmen and sportswomen manage to make a name for themselves and

get to the top.

call sb names

to use impolite or unpleasant words to describe someone

Dictionary example:

He said the other children were calling him names.

Learner example:

He had never called me names or told me off.

as the/its name implies

used to show that the name of something tells you something about it

Dictionary example:

The Long Room, as its name implies, runs the entire length of the house.

Learner example:

Sour Sweet, as the name implies, is originally a Chinese restaurant.

VERB [T]

you name it

something that you say which means anything you say or choose

Dictionary example:

I've never seen such a wide selection. You name it, they've got it.

Learner example:

Courses vary from languages, management, computer- related fields to fitness, yoga, karate classes [and] all [the] different hobbies you might be interested in such as painting on silk or on

wood, pottery, carving and the like. You name it, they have it at ECM.

place /pleɪs/

"Word family:

Nouns: place, replacement, displacement

Verbs: place, replace, displace, misplace

NOUN

in place

in the correct position

Dictionary example:

The chairs are all in place.

Learner example:

I looked neat and clean even after the wildest games in the school yard, with all the ribbons that

tied my long hair in place.

in place

If a rule, system, etc. is in place, it has started to exist.

Dictionary example:

There are now laws in place to prevent this from happening.

Learner example:

Let's take [the] example of Mexico City, where such restrictions have been in place since early 2000.

put sb in their place

to let someone know that they are not as important as they think they are

Dictionary example:

He was rather arrogant, but the other kids soon put him in his place.

out of place

not in the correct position

Dictionary example:

Why are my files all out of place?

Learner example:

It was awful getting back from school and se[e]ing all my things out of place.

out of place

not right or suitable for a particular situation

Everyone else was wearing jeans and I felt completely out of place in my office clothes. Learner example:

This does not mean everybody is wearing tuxedos and dresses but you might be out of place just wearing shorts and a shirt.

fall into place

When events or details that you did not understand before fall into place, they become easy to understand.

Dictionary example:

When Jo told me she had a twin sister, everything fell into place.

VERB [T]

place emphasis/importance, etc. on sth

to give something emphasis/importance, etc.

Dictionary example:

They place a lot of importance on qualifications.

Learner example:

They want to fit [in]to their peer group - having idols and placing importance upon clothes is not

new for this age.

turn /tɜːn/

"Word family:

Nouns: turn, turning

Verbs: turn

VERB

turn your back on sb/sth

to decide to stop having contact with someone or something, or to refuse to help

someone

Dictionary example:

She turned her back on Hollywood and went to live in Florida.

Learner example:

She gets to learn that Olivia turned her back on her past and merged totally with India through her

attraction to and sympathy for the Nawab.

turn your nose up at sth INFORMAL

to not accept something because you do not think it is good enough for you

Dictionary example:

He turned his nose up at my offer of soup, saying he wanted a proper meal.

Learner example:

Moreover, she will not turn her nose up at anybody who might be considered less worthy than her.

turn over a new leaf

to start to behave in a better way

Dictionary example:

I'm not drinking any more - I've turned over a new leaf.

She promised to turn over a new leaf.

toss and turn

be unable to sleep properly

Dictionary example:

I was tossing and turning for most of the night.

Learner example:

As she tossed and turned, unable to sleep, she started [going over] the events that had taken place before that evening.

NOUN

take a turn for the better/worse

to become better or worse suddenly

Dictionary example:

The weather took a turn for the better.

Learner example:

Despite all the environmental problems it is up to us to prevent things from taking a turn for the worse.

the turn of the century

the start of a new century

Dictionary example:

He was born at the turn of the century.

turn of events

the way in which a situation develops, especially a sudden or unexpected change

Dictionary example:

We were all shocked by this tragic turn of events.

Learner example:

She was not prepared for such an unexpected turn of events!

run /rʌn/

"Word family:

Nouns: run, runner, running

Verbs: run

VERB (running, ran, run)

run sth along/over/through, etc. sth

to move something along, over, or through something else

Dictionary example:

She ran her fingers through her hair.

Learner example:

The manly figure that had tried to stop her now kneeled before her body running his finger

through her soft blond hair.

be running at sth

to be at a particular level

Dictionary example:

Inflation is now running at 5.8%.

Learner example:

According to the official dat[a], unemployment is running at so high a level that it is even possible that the unemploy[ed] will rebel against the government.

make your blood run cold

If something makes your blood run cold, it frightens you very much.

Dictionary example:

I heard a tapping on the window which made my blood run cold.

Learner example:

This thought scared me and made my blood run cold.

run wild

If someone, especially a child, runs wild, they behave as they want to and no one controls them.

Dictionary example:

Their nine-year-old son is left to run wild.

Learner example:

My parents decided to move to a small village when I was just a kid. Shortly after we settled [in], my parents decided that I was running wild and that it was time for me to receive some sort of education.

run wild

If someone's imagination runs wild, they are not able to control their thoughts.

Dictionary example:

It was getting dark and my imagination was starting to run wild.

Learner example:

Her imagination started to run wild and she set about think[ing] about the dark corridors, the secret passages and the obscure dungeons that the castle might hide.

run riot

to behave in a noisy, violent, or wild way without being controlled

Dictionary example:

They allow their kids to run riot.

run the risk of sth

to do something although something bad might happen because of it

Dictionary example:

I think I'll run the risk of hurting her feelings, and tell her the truth.

Learner example:

They constantly run the risk of losing their physical abilities.

NOUN [C]

make a run for it INFORMAL

to suddenly run fast in order to escape from somewhere

Dictionary example:

When he saw the open door, he made a run for it.

Learner example:

Anna and Tom decided to make a run for it.

a run of sth

when something happens several times without something different happening during that period

Dictionary examples:

a run of 10 games without a win a run of good/bad luck

Learner example:

Strange though it may seem, he achieved success in every possible field not owing to a run of good luck, but thanks to his outstanding qualities.

mean /miːn/

"Word family: Nouns: meaning Verbs: mean

Adjectives: meaningful

VERB [T] (meant, meant)

be meant to do sth

If you are meant to do something, that is what you should do in order to behave

correctly.

Dictionary examples:

You're meant to shake the bottle first.

He's not meant to drive any more.

Learner example:

She knew he was meant to be home playing his guitar.

be meant to do sth

If something is meant to do something, that is its purpose.

Dictionary example:

The belt is meant to hold you in.

Learner example:

Although labels are meant to help the customer identify what the particular product contains, more often than not too many Latin expressions can be found on the label.

mean well

to intend to behave in a kind way

Dictionary example:

I know my parents mean well, but I wish they wouldn't interfere.

Learner example:

Although these fans might mean well, in many cases they do not appear to realise that their

'heroes' perhaps would like to be left alone.

ADJECTIVE

AVERAGE

[ALWAYS BEFORE NOUN] In maths, a mean number is an average number.

Dictionary example:

Their mean age at death was 84.6.

Learner example:

Better living conditions and significant advances in medicine have greatly contributed to an

increase in the mean age of death and a decrease in deaths at birth.

be no mean feat

used when you want to emphasize that an act or achievement is very difficult

Dictionary example:

Learning to ski at 60 is no mean feat!

Learner example:

There was an interesting discussion about whether it was harder or easier for them to enter the

world of cinema, given their famous names. Both said that it was no mean feat because people were more demanding as [to] their abilities.

out of /ˈaʊt.əv/

"PREPOSITION

out of your depth

not having the knowledge, experience, or skills to deal with a particular subject or

situation

Dictionary example:

When they start talking about philosophy, I'm completely out of my depth.

Learner example:

It was my first day of school. What I can remember is that I really felt out of my depth: my parents

were so happy that I couldn't succeed in telling them that I was terribly frightened and that [the only] thing that I wanted was my doll.

out of a job

without a job

Dictionary example:

How long have you been out of a job?

Learner example:

So, what is so terrible about being out of a job, you might ask yourself.

out of the ordinary

unusual or different

Dictionary examples:

Their relationship was a little out of the ordinary.

The investigation revealed nothing out of the ordinary.

Learner example:

This event is something out of the ordinary for local life and it gives our town prestige and originality.

be out of this world INFORMAL

to be of extremely good quality

Dictionary example:

Their chocolate cake is just out of this world!

Learner example:

The dessert trays are out of this world.

(be) out of line

If someone's actions or words are out of line, they are not suitable or acceptable.

Dictionary example:

Her remarks to the press were way out of line.

Learner example:

Today I see that my mother was right in this aspect since I acted extremely out of line sometimes and a soft hand certainly wouldn't help me in the future.

get out of hand

to become difficult to control

Dictionary example:

It was the end of term and the children were getting a little out of hand.

Learner example:

A few solutions can prevent this problem from getting out of hand.

out of place

not in the correct position

Dictionary example:

Why are my files all out of place?

Learner example:

It was awful getting back from school and se[e]ing all my things out of place.

out of place

not right or suitable for a particular situation

Dictionary example:

Everyone else was wearing jeans and I felt completely out of place in my office clothes.

Learner example:

This does not mean everybody is wearing tuxedos and dresses but you might be out of place just wearing shorts and a shirt.

out of proportion

If something is out of proportion, it is much bigger or smaller than it should be, when compared to other things.

Dictionary example:

The punishment is completely out of proportion to the crime.

Learner example:

If you were doing it to make a profit, I could understand, but for a library it is just out of proportion [and] I even believe more people could be attracted [if] the prices decrease.

be out of the question

If something is out of the question, it is not possible or not allowed.

Dictionary example:

Providing more money is out of the question.

Learner example:

Walking home was out of the question since that would have taken even longer.

out of season

If you go somewhere out of season, you go during a period of the year when few people are there.

Dictionary example:

I prefer to travel out of season.

Learner example:

Some towns [that] are completely dependent on tourism ""die"" out of season, while others are destroyed because of the excessive emigration of [their] people.

out of shape

not healthy or physically strong

Dictionary example:

Since I stopped cycling, I'm very out of shape.

Learner example:

I no longer run and it has been more than a year since the last time I raced, [so] I am out of shape.

be/get out of touch

to know little about what has recently happened

Dictionary example:

I've been abroad for the last two years, so I'm very out of touch.

Learner example:

In much worse cases, some individuals may even be trapped in the virtual world and get out of touch with the real one.

speak /spiːk/ (spoke, spoken)

"Word family:

Nouns: speaker, speech Verbs: speak

Adjectives: speechless

VERB

so to speak

used to explain that the words you are using do not have their usual meaning

Dictionary example:

That was our accommodation, so to speak.

Learner example:

In those cases, travelling turns into a sort of alienation, so to speak.

speaks for itself

If something speaks for itself, it is clear and needs no further explanation.

Dictionary example:

The school's excellent record speaks for itself.

Learner example:

On the one hand the economic success of sports events speaks for itself.

speak volumes

If something speaks volumes, it makes an opinion, characteristic or situation very clear without the use of words.

Dictionary example:

She said very little, but her face spoke volumes.

Learner example:

It remains to be seen whether the effect of stem cells when applied to humans would be the same, but the achievements speak volumes about the fact that stem cells may one day turn a new [page] in many people's lives and let them get rid of that humiliating label of a ""disabled person.""

speak your mind

to say exactly what you think without worrying if it will upset anyone

Dictionary example:

She has very strong opinions and she's not afraid to speak her mind.

Learner example:

His father is even more eccentric, speaks his mind and has no manners at all.

not be on speaking terms

to not speak to someone because you have argued with them

Dictionary example:

My brother and I aren't on speaking terms.

Learner example:

Just imagine how many are those who hate their relatives or at least one of their relatives and

aren't even on speaking terms with them or him.

public /ˈpʌb.lɪk/

"Word family: Nouns: publicity Adjectives: public

Adverbs: publicly

ADJECTIVE

a public announcement/appearance/statement, etc.

an announcement/appearance/statement, etc. that can be seen or heard or known

by everyone

Dictionary example:

The Prime Minister is due to make a public statement later today.

Learner example:

Therefore, Gonzalo never attempted to make a public statement to defend himself and underestimated the harm it could cause to his public image.

make sth public

to allow everyone to know about something

Dictionary example:

The government does not plan to make its findings public.

Learner example:

According to the scientific method of research, one should only make a discovery or conclusion

public after deep testing and, even after th[at], this fact sh[ould] never be taken as the most complete and definitive truth about any given subject.

VERB

pull a muscle

to injure a muscle by stretching it too much

Dictionary example:

I've pulled a muscle in my leg.

pull your weight

to work as hard as other people in a group

Dictionary example:

The rest of the team complained that Sarah wasn't pulling her weight.

Learner example:

For instance, before your kin get all nice and comfortable, you could ask them to pull their weight around the house by doing a few jobs.

pull strings

to secretly use the influence that you have over important people to get something or to help someone

Dictionary example:

I may be able to pull a few strings, if you need the money urgently.

Learner example:

This isn't secret: I thought some of these ideas might be of interest and perhaps an article about them [i]n your newspaper would pull the necessary strings at the City Hall to produce some very

much needed changes.

water /ˈwɔː.tər/

"NOUN [U]

be (like) water off a duck's back

If criticisms, insults, etc. are like water off a duck's back to you, they do not affect

you at all.

Dictionary example:

She calls him lazy and useless, but it's like water off a duck's back.

The main lesson I have learned is by looking at some people who have lived alone for most of their life and faced with neither contradiction nor argument, they stay in their ivory tower, so sure of their opinions that whatever you say is like water off a duck's back.

not hold water

If you say that an argument doesn't hold water, you mean that it can't possibly be true.

Dictionary example:

I'm sorry, but what you are suggesting just doesn't hold water!

Learner example:

It remains to us to prove that the opinions of some scientists are far-fetched and don't hold water.

fresh water

water from lakes, rivers, etc. that has no salt in it

Dictionary example:

These fish live in fresh water.

Learner example:

You find stunning white beaches, clear, fresh water lakes, isolated tropic islands, reef, rainforests, buzzing cities, challenging mountain range, bush, outback - and the desert.

keep your head above water

to have just enough money to live or to continue a business

Dictionary example:

With extra income from private sponsorship, the club is just about managing to keep its head above water.

Learner example:

I also started to realise how much she had on her plate, how very little help she had and how, at times, she had to struggle just like me to keep her head above water.

VERB

MOUTH

[I] If food makes your mouth water, it makes you want to eat it, sometimes making your mouth produce liquid.

Dictionary example:

The smells from the kitchen are making my mouth water.

NOUN [C]

GROUP

a group of people or things that arrive or happen together or in a short period of time

Dictionary examples:

There has been a wave of kidnappings in the region. Another wave of refugees is arriving at the border.

Learner example:

These people, who belong mostly to the middle class, and some other[s] like explorers [...] or youngsters seeking some adventure, produce the big wave of tourists to different countries.

a wave of hatred/enthusiasm/sadness, etc. when you suddenly feel an emotion

Dictionary example:

She felt a sudden wave of sadness.

Learner example:

As he counted the money, a wave of shame and horror hit Berthold.

make waves

to cause problems by asking difficult questions or criticizing

Dictionary example:

He has earned a reputation for making waves during political campaigns.

Learner example:

If we don't want to regret anything, it is time we started to make waves by s[c]rutinizing our history.

HAND

when you raise your hand and move it from side to side in order to attract someone's attention or say goodbye

Dictionary example:

She gave a little wave as the train left.

Learner example:

And as with a wave of a magic hand, everything changed.

NOUN [C]

be on the same wavelength

If two people are on the same wavelength, they have the same way of thinking and it is easy for them to understand each other.

Dictionary example:

We chatted occasionally, but I never really felt we were on the same wavelength.

Learner example:

We were on the same wavelength and we therefore started our own research.

know /nəʊ/

"Word family:

Nouns: knowledge, unknown

Verbs: know

Adjectives: known, unknown, knowledgeable

Adverbs: knowingly

VERB (knew, known)

GUESS CORRECTLY

[T] to guess something correctly

Dictionary example:

I should have known he wouldn't come.

Learner example:

I should have known that he wouldn't understand.

know best

to be the most suitable person to have responsibility and make important decisions

Dictionary example:

When it comes to dealing with my own son, I think I know best.

Learner example:

How true is that expression ""Father knows best"". If my father [was alive] today he would probably be laughing his head off.

know better

to have enough experience not to do something stupid or something that will not achieve anything

Dictionary example:

I thought she'd listen to me - I should have known better.

Learner example:

Surely two grown-ups should have known better than to shout at each other at the top of their lungs.

the next thing I knew

used to talk about part of a story that happens in a sudden and surprising way

Dictionary example:

A car came speeding round the corner, and the next thing I knew I was lying on the ground.

Learner example:

And the next thing I knew was that I was playing cards with 3 men.

know your stuff INFORMAL

to know a lot about a subject, or to be very good at doing something

Dictionary example:

She's an excellent teacher - she really knows her stuff.

Learner example:

The thing was that she should have been be able to tell them what to do; she never doubted her own abilities. She knew 'her stuff' all right.

make /meɪk/

"Word family:

Nouns: maker Verbs: make

VERB [T] (made, made)

make do (with)

to accept something that is less good than you would like

Dictionary example:

If we can't get a bigger room we'll have to make do with this.

Learner example:

Very calmly, he said ""I am not going to put up with this. You might say that I am being too emotional, overreacting, whatever. But I will not come back until my piano has been returned. And let me make very clear that I will not make do with another instrument.""

make light of sth

to talk or behave as if you do not think a problem is serious

Dictionary example:

I just laughed and tried to make light of it.

Learner example:

They project an optimistic image and make light of the troubles in life.

make allowances for sb/sth

to remember that someone has a disadvantage which is not their fault when you are judging their behaviour or work

Dictionary example:

They made allowances for the fact that he was ill.

Learner example:

I would say Mr Stevens is a victim of his sense of duty, which makes him think of marriage as a traitor's act, but I don't know to what extent we should make allowances for his strong convictions.

make your blood run cold

If something makes your blood run cold, it frightens you very much.

Dictionary example:

I heard a tapping on the window which made my blood run cold.

Learner example:

This thought scared me and made my blood run cold.

make your blood boil

to make you extremely angry

Dictionary example:

The way they have treated those people makes my blood boil.

Learner example:

Paul said something repulsive, with a cold light in his eyes, and it made her blood boil.

make sb's day

to make someone very happy

Dictionary example:

Go on, ask him to dance - it'll make his day!

Learner example:

Thank you for returning a lost diary; you have made my day!

make a bad/good, etc. job of sth

to do sth badly/well, etc.

Dictionary example:

Paul's made a good job of painting the hall.

Learner example:

It's time my mother stop[ped] worrying about me, after all, she's been preparing me all my life for this moment; it's finally time to see if she has made a good job of it.

make a name for yourself

to become famous or respected by a lot of people

Dictionary example:

He's been trying to make a name for himself in the music business.

Learner example:

Secondly, only [a] few sportsmen and sportswomen manage to make a name for themselves and get to the top.

make a nonsense of sth

to spoil something or make it seem stupid

Dictionary example:

Cuts to the text made a nonsense of the play.

Learner example:

It really makes a nonsense of our claim to be civilized when one thinks of all the poor, helpless people that live under deplorable condition[s].

make waves

to cause problems by asking difficult questions or criticizing

Dictionary example:

He has earned a reputation for making waves during political campaigns.

Learner example:

If we don't want to regret anything, it is time we started to make waves by s[c]rutinizing our history.

make your way

to be successful and make progress in your work

Dictionary example:

He managed to make his way in the film industry.

Learner example:

For each one of the famous sportsmen we re[cog]nise on television or in the newspapers, there are thousands of hopeful youngsters trying to make their way to the top.

make way for sth

to be replaced by someone or something

Dictionary example:

They knocked down the old houses to make way for a new hotel.

Learner example:

In the UK most high-streets already look very much the same and the local shops had to make way for big conglomerates.

make a go of sth

to try to make something succeed, usually by working hard

Dictionary example:

They're determined to make a go of their business.

make your presence felt

to have a strong effect on other people

Dictionary example:

The new police chief has really made his presence felt.

Learner example:

Before long a local bicycle gang was formed which would ride all over the village, through fields and gardens, making our presence felt.

make sth public

to allow everyone to know about something

Dictionary example:

The government does not plan to make its findings public.

Learner example:

According to the scientific method of research, one should only make a discovery or conclusion public after deep testing and, even after th[at], this fact sh[ould] never be taken as the most complete and definitive truth about any given subject.

make a run for it INFORMAL

to suddenly run fast in order to escape from somewhere

Dictionary example:

When he saw the open door, he made a run for it.

Learner example:

Anna and Tom decided to make a run for it.

make sense of sth

to understand something that is difficult to understand

Dictionary example:

I'm trying to make sense of this document.

Learner example:

In fact, it's during his journey that Stevens begins to make sense of his life, of all the years he spent as a butler, as the 'perfect butler' who had to be loyal, silent and discreet.

make a splash INFORMAL

to get a lot of public attention

Dictionary example:

The film made quite a splash in the US.

Learner example:

Moreover, it is no use splashing your money about [on] expensive gifts because this behaviour shows that you are not happy but your purpose is to make a splash.

make a start

to begin doing something

Dictionary example:

We need to make a start on (preparing) the brochure next week.

blow /bləʊ/

"VERB (blew, blown)

SOUND

[I or T] to make a sound by forcing air out of your mouth and through an instrument

Dictionary examples:

Ann blew a few notes on the trumpet.

We were all waiting for the referee to blow his whistle.

Learner example:

I had never played an instrument before, but when I put the flute to my mouth and blew, it was as though I had played it all my life and that it had always been mine.

blow it/your chance(s) INFORMAL

If you blow it or blow your chance, you lose an opportunity to do something by

doing or saying the wrong thing.

Dictionary examples:

I blew it when I criticized the way she ran the office.

Tom blew his chances of getting the job by arriving late for the interview.

Learner example:

I'm giving you one last chance. If you blow it, you'll be sent to an Institution which treats people like you.

blow your mind INFORMAL

If something blows your mind, you are very excited or surprised by it.

Dictionary example:

There was one scene in the film that really blew my mind.

Learner example:

'MOMO', written by Michael Ende, is a book that blew my mind as a child and as an adult, I have

read it many times, but the last time has been a while now.

NOUN [C]

HIT

a hard hit with a hand or a weapon

Dictionary example:

They think his death was caused by a blow to the head with an iron bar.

Learner example:

He was really starting to panic when he felt a hard blow to his head.

BAD EVENT

an unexpected event that has a damaging effect on someone or something

Dictionary example:

Losing his job was a severe blow to his confidence.

Learner example:

Douglas, due to his callousness or because it had been too great a blow for him, was unable to

understand or assimilate the fact, so he just went on, doing his duty to his country and his people as before.

foot /fʊt/ (PLURAL feet)

"NOUN [C]

put your foot down

to tell someone in a strong way that they must do something or must stop doing

something

Dictionary example:

I decided to put my foot down with my staff and insist that they do not send personal emails in

work time.

Learner example:

Finally, I would like to appeal to other readers of the 'Cyprus Weekly', who might even be living near my area, to put your foot down and apply any pressure you can on people who can do

something about the situation.

put your foot in it

to say something silly or embarrassing, without intending to

Dictionary example:

I really put my foot in it with your mum - I didn't know she was a teacher herself.

Learner example:

I had really put my foot in it by telling Richard that it would better for him not to come to the party.

get off/start on the wrong foot

to start a relationship or activity badly

Dictionary example:

He got off on the wrong foot with my parents by arriving late.

Learner example:

One of the greatest pleasure[s] of reading ""The Remains of the Day"" would be to see the gradual

development of the relationship between Stevens and Miss Kenton. From the beginning, they get off on the wrong foot.

get/rise to your feet

to stand up after you have been sitting

The audience rose to their feet. Learner example:

The capacity crowd rose to their feet to cheer Dylan and his band; since then I understood why his fans worship him like a god.

put your feet up

to relax, especially by sitting with your feet supported above the ground

Dictionary example:

Put your feet up for half an hour before the kids get home.

Learner example:

You have done your work and now you can put your feet up.

good /gʊd/

"Word family:

Nouns: good, goodness

Adjectives: good

ADJECTIVE (better, best)

a good 20 minutes/30 miles, etc.

not less than 20 minutes/30 miles, etc. and probably a bit more

Dictionary example:

It's a good half an hour's walk to the station from here.

Learner example:

The Arts and Social science field also has a good 21% of graduates in further study.

it's a good job

If it is a good job that something happened, it is lucky that it happened.

Dictionary example:

It's a good job that Jo was there to help you.

Learner example:

It's a good job that I didn't cry.

so far so good INFORMAL

used to say that something has gone well until now

Dictionary example:

It's the first time I've done any decorating, but so far so good.

Learner example:

So far so good, only no one told us they held this point of view before the actual christening took place.

be in good taste

to be acceptable in a way that will not upset or anger people

Dictionary example:

His speech was in good taste.

Learner example:

I therefore t[h]ought that it would be in good taste to write about two of them.

what people think is morally right

Dictionary example:

Children don't always understand the difference between good and bad.

Learner example:

From a symbolic point of view, the whole book features the conflict between good and evil, between reason and primary brutal p[as]sions such as savageness and lust for blood.

do sb a/the world of good INFORMAL

to make someone feel much happier or healthier

Dictionary example:

That swim has done me a world of good.

Learner example:

I feel a year abroad would do her a world of good in letting her care for children, learn to speak English properly, and see life from different aspects.

leave /liːv/

"VERB (left, left)

PRODUCE SITUATION

to produce a particular, often bad, situation

Dictionary examples:

Far from improving things, the new law has left many people worse off than before. Storms have left areas of Britain without electricity.

The family were left homeless.

Learner example:

He was born on a ranch in Jalisco, the fourth of eight children, and when the youngest was only six months old, my grandfather died, leaving the family penniless.

DO LATER

[T] to do something later that you could do immediately

Dictionary examples:

Don't leave your packing till the night before you go. I'll leave these letters till Monday.

Don't leave it too late.

They left booking their holiday till/to the last minute.

Learner example:

I left it until the following day since I was too worn out to go on.

AFTER DEATH

to arrange for someone to receive something after you die

Dictionary example:

He left his nieces all his money./He left all his money to his nieces.

Learner example:

""I hate him"", Jane thought, ""and [I wonder] why on earth Uncle John left him all his money and the most beautiful estate in our country with this old manor house, in which all my ancestors were born.""

leave someone to their own devices

to leave someone to do what they want to do

Dictionary example:

With both parents out at work, the kids were often left to their own devices.

Learner example:

The moment teenagers leave school, they are left to their own devices.

leave no stone unturned

to do everything that you can in order to achieve something or to find someone or something

Dictionary example:

Both sides have vowed to leave no stone unturned in the search for peace.

Learner example:

She has left no stone unturned so as to reach her [goal], always asserting her assets and views with conviction.

NOUN

[U] time allowed away from work for holiday or illness

Dictionary examples:

How much annual/paid leave do you get? She's (gone) on leave.

I've asked if I can take a week's unpaid leave.

Learner example:

It was from him, her lover, and told her that he was on leave and would come to visit her.

astronomy /əˈstrɒn.ə.mi/

"NOUN [U]

the scientific study of stars and planets

Dictionary example:

This is the biggest step forward in astronomy since Galileo's first telescope over four hundred

years ago.

Learner example:

Her father was famous for his vast knowledge of astronomy and books he wrote on this subject.

PREPOSITION

at best

used to show that the most positive way of considering something is still not good

Dictionary example:

At best, only 50 per cent of babies born at 24 weeks will survive.

Learner example:

Then, due to the social standards, the old find themselves being abandoned and helpless. At best, such people are hospitalized.

at the best of times

used to show that something is not good when it is the best it can be

Dictionary example:

He's not exactly patient at the best of times.

Learner example:

They knew that even at the best of times he looked unpleasant but now he was of [a] completely different [appearance].

at a disadvantage

having problems that other people do not have

Dictionary example:

Being shy puts him at a disadvantage.

Learner example:

There would otherwise be no option for such children who would then be at a disadvantage and possibly engage in destructive behaviour.

be at odds with sb/sth

to not agree with someone or something

Dictionary example:

His remark was at odds with our report.

Learner example:

Young people are inexperienced as far as the world is concerned and thus they are frequently at odds with their family.

at the latest

If you tell someone to do something by a particular time at the latest, you mean they must do it before that time.

Dictionary example:

She said to be there by 8 o'clock at the latest.

at length

If you talk about something at length, you talk for a long time.

Dictionary example:

We discussed both topics at length.

Learner example:

Since we have already arranged for your family to come to stay in my home and discussed the arrangements at length and in detail, I will no longer bother you with terms of payment and other information that, judging by your letter, seems to be quite irrelevant.

be at liberty to do sth FORMAL

to be allowed to do something

Dictionary example:

I'm not at liberty to discuss the matter at present.

Learner example:

On [the] one hand the child is at liberty to do whatever it pleases to do but on the other hand it was never taught the responsibilities implicit[l]y tied to such actions.

at a loss

not knowing what to do

Dictionary example:

I'm at a loss to explain his disappearance.

Learner example:

And now I am competely at a loss what to write next.

at a loss for words

not knowing what to say

Dictionary example:

The question was unexpected and she was temporarily at a loss for words.

Learner example:

If it was James I would be at a loss for words, I didn't know what to tell him.

be at the mercy of sb/sth

to not be able to protect yourself from something or someone that you cannot control

Dictionary example:

Farmers are often at the mercy of the weather.

Learner example:

I couldn't believe I'd been careless enough to let them be at the mercy of Joanna's careless, boisterous friends, and I felt very lonely now, looking for them.

at the earliest

used after a time or date to show that something will not happen before then

Building will not begin until July at the earliest.

at sb's expense

in order to make someone look stupid

Dictionary example:

Stop making jokes at my expense.

Learner example:

But despite his intellectual superiority, Piggy was subject to derision because of his physical outward appearance and the group of boys played jokes at his expense.

at your fingertips

If you have something at your fingertips, you can get it and use it very easily.

Dictionary example:

He had all the information needed at his fingertips.

Learner example:

An Internet connection literally means having the world at your fingertips.

at the hands of sb

If you suffer at the hands of someone, they hurt you or treat you badly.

Dictionary example:

She suffered terribly at the hands of her classmates.

Learner example:

She felt abandoned and the loss of Mark's friends at the hands of their old nemesis in the local election had left him with fewer activities for the municipality.

at heart

used to say what someone is really like

Dictionary example:

I'm just a kid at heart.

Learner example:

I also thought that she was brave at heart.

at issue

most important in what is being discussed

Dictionary example:

The point at issue is what is best for the child.

Learner example:

I wouldn't like to fall into the trap of generalizing the matter at issue, but I believe there are two ways of travelling.

be at a premium

If something useful is at a premium, there is not enough of it.

Time is at a premium just before the start of exams. Learner example:

Honesty and accuracy are very good virtues to strive [for], but having friendship [and a] fair and caring relationship to your friend or partner have to be rated at a premium as well.

at any price

If you want something at any price, you will do anything to get it.

Dictionary example:

She wanted the job at any price.

Learner example:

They wanted to be parents at any price.

at this rate

used before saying what will happen if a situation continues in the same way

Dictionary example:

At this rate we're not going to be there till midnight.

at any rate

used before saying one fact that is certain in a situation that you are generally not certain about

Dictionary example:

Well, at any rate we need her to be there.

Learner example:

Nevertheless, at any rate, we would like to see a society with [a] full and strong workforce working towards stronger economic power.

at your own risk

If you do something at your own risk, you are completely responsible for anything bad that might happen because of it.

Dictionary example:

Customers may leave vehicles here at their own risk.

Learner example:

However, when a young man decides to go on a dangerous expedition, he should do so at his own risk and should not rely on help from anyone.

be at stake

If something is at stake, it is in a situation where it might be lost or damaged.

Dictionary example:

We have to act quickly - people's lives are at stake.

Learner example:

The whole human race's future is at stake.

at the tender age of 8/17/25, etc. LITERARY

at the young age of 8/17/25, etc

Dictionary example:

She first appeared on stage at the tender age of 14.

Learner example:

She met my father at the tender age of 14, and she soon knew that this was the man she wanted to stay with for the rest of her life.

at one time or another

used to talk about an occasion in the past without saying exactly which occasion it was

Dictionary example:

Most of us have made a similar mistake at one time or another.

Learner example:

Haven't we all at one time or another come home from a holiday feeling healthy and strong with a smile on our face thinking, this is what life is about.

do /duː/

"Word family: Verbs: do, overdo

VERB (did, done)

do the job

If something does the job, it is suitable for a particular purpose.

Dictionary example:

Here, this knife should do the job.

Learner example:

Allow them to bring home friends and therefore develop social skills. In my opinion, that should

do the job.

do sb/sth justice; do justice to sb/sth

to show the best or real qualities of something or someone

Dictionary example:

This postcard doesn't do justice to the wonderful scenery.

Learner example:

No words can do justice to the indignation that I feel.

can't/couldn't very well do sth

used to say that something is not a suitable or practical thing to do

Dictionary example:

I couldn't very well tell her while he was there.

Learner example:

I couldn't very well tell her that without my diaries, I'd be lost and not know who I was.

make do (with)

to accept something that is less good than you would like

Dictionary example:

If we can't get a bigger room we'll have to make do with this.

Learner example:

Very calmly, he said ""I am not going to put up with this. You might say that I am being too emotional, overreacting, whatever. But I will not come back until my piano has been returned. And let me make very clear that I will not make do with another instrument.""

do the trick

If something does the trick, it solves a problem or has the result you want.

Dictionary example:

If I've got a headache, a couple of aspirins usually do the trick.

Learner example:

Using aromatherapy oil and scented candles always did the trick when she wanted to relax.

chance /tʃɑːnts/

"NOUN

(the) chances are

it is likely

Dictionary examples:

Chances are that he'll refuse.

If we plan a picnic, the chances are that it'll rain.

Learner example:

This was the case in London this summer, and with England's failing electricity system, chances

are that this winter we will experience a similar situation.

stand a chance

to have a chance of success or of achieving something

Dictionary examples:

He stands a good chance of winning the election.

These kids don't stand a chance of getting an education.

Learner example:

If this measure were taken, the outcome would be of fundamental importance for the currently

unemployed because they will stand a chance of finding a job and making a living.

by any chance

used to ask in a polite way whether something is possible or true

Dictionary example:

You're not Spanish by any chance, are you?

Learner example:

I pick up the phone ""Hello, Nick have you by any chance got, or seen, my diary?

No chance!/ Not a chance!

used to emphasize that there is no possibility of something happening

Dictionary example:

""Do you think she'd go out with me?"" ""No chance!""

blow it/your chance(s) INFORMAL

If you blow it or blow your chance, you lose an opportunity to do something by doing or saying the wrong thing.

Dictionary examples:

I blew it when I criticized the way she ran the office.

Tom blew his chances of getting the job by arriving late for the interview.

Learner example:

I'm giving you one last chance. If you blow it, you'll be sent to an Institution which treats people like you.

motion /ˈməʊ.ʃən/

"NOUN

MOVEMENT

[U] when or how something moves

Dictionary example:

The motion of the boat made him feel sick.

Learner example:

The motion of the air caused by the jet engines makes all the windows tremble and some of them break.

SUGGESTION

[C] a suggestion that you make in a formal meeting or court of law

Dictionary examples:

Someone proposed a motion to increase the membership fee to £500 a year.

The motion was accepted/rejected.

Learner example:

Nevertheless Mark and Paul maintained their ground and submit[t]ed motion after motion to the parl[ia]ment in order to be allowed to continue their work and use their techni[que] commercially.

go through the motions

to do something because you are expected to do it and not because you want to

Dictionary example:

These days when we go out, I feel as though he's just going through the motions.

Learner example:

She went through the motions of every-day-life without enthusiasm.

VERB

mount a campaign/challenge/protest, etc.

to arrange a series of organized activities that will achieve a particular result

Dictionary example:

Students mounted a huge protest against fee increases.

Learner example:

In Orson Welles' story, aliens mount an offensive to take over the world, whereas in Wyndham's book, the world is quietly and slowly conquered by plants.

INCREASE

[I] to increase in amount or level

Dictionary example:

Tension in the room was mounting.

Learner example:

One day, I was sitting in a dentist's waiting [room], and as tension mounted and the old ""dentist fear"" was eating away at me, I availed myself [of] the opportunity to browse through a couple of magazines lying on the table.

mount sth on/to, etc.

to fix an object onto something

Dictionary example:

They've mounted a camera on the wall by the door.

Learner example:

He or any other guest will be happy to explain any of the items mounted on the wall and to reminisce about old times.

RIDE

[T] to get on a horse or bicycle

Dictionary example:

I helped him mount the horse.

Learner example:

After only a short walk, he had to help two of them to mount the mules.

NOUN [C]

PILE

INFORMAL a large pile of something

Dictionary example:

There's a mountain of papers on my desk.

Learner example:

But I had to get up to deal with a mountain of documents on my desk.

blood /blʌd/

"Word family: Nouns: blood Verbs: bleed

Adjectives: bloody

NOUN [U]

in cold blood

in a cruel way, without showing any emotion

Dictionary example:

He shot three policemen in cold blood.

Learner example:

Returning to the story, when I arrived, I went directly to Hillton Avenue where I should have met

005, but when I arrived at the meeting point I found him lying on the floor with two shots in his back; he had been murdered in cold blood.

FAMILY ORIGIN

the family or place that you come from

Dictionary example:

I've got some Spanish blood in me.

Learner example:

I have a background in my blood which, I believe, explains my way of thinking: my mother is Dutch and my father is half from Alsace, half from Hungary.

make your blood run cold

If something makes your blood run cold, it frightens you very much.

Dictionary example:

I heard a tapping on the window which made my blood run cold.

Learner example:

This thought scared me and made my blood run cold.

make your blood boil

to make you extremely angry

Dictionary example:

The way they have treated those people makes my blood boil.

Learner example:

Paul said something repulsive, with a cold light in his eyes, and it made her blood boil.

your own flesh and blood a member of your family

Dictionary example:

I can't hate him - he's my own flesh and blood.

Learner example:

On the other hand, another problem old people have to face is a feeling of [not] being useful to society and what proves this is that they are put into old people's homes even by their own flesh

and blood.

drag /dræg/

"VERB (-gg-)

drag sb along/out/to, etc.

to make someone go somewhere they do not want to go

Dictionary examples:

She dragged me to the shops to look at shoes.

I have to drag myself out of bed every morning.

Learner example:

When she first saw him, speaking his radical views at some sort of political meeting she had been dragged along to by a friend, she was at first scared but later enchanted.

TIME

[I] to continue for too much time in a boring way

Dictionary examples:

The afternoon really seemed to drag.

The negotiations dragged on for months.

Learner example:

The afternoon dragged on interminably, and I suddenly felt like going out.

VERB

REMOVE LIQUID

[T] to remove the liquid from something, usually by pouring it away or allowing it to flow away

Dictionary examples:

Drain the pasta and add the sauce.

We drained the pond and filled it with fresh water.

Learner example:

Peter the Great ordered the swampy lands to be drained.

FLOW AWAY

[I] If something drains, liquid flows away or out of it.

Dictionary example:

Don't bother drying the pans - just leave them to drain.

Learner example:

The sink doesn't drain, which is a major problem for me.

REDUCE

[I or T] to reduce or cause something to reduce

Dictionary example:

The long war had drained the resources of both countries.

Learner example:

These people drain government funds that can be used to deal with unemployment.

MAKE TIRED

[T] to make someone very tired

Dictionary example:

The long journey drained him.

Learner example:

Especially when you've had a hard day at work, when the constant high temperature drains the energy from you, or when you're not feeling well because of any other reason, you need that comforting phone call from your best friend more than ever.

NOUN [C]

FOR WATER

a pipe or hole that takes away waste liquids or water

Dictionary example:

She poured the dirty water down the drain.

Learner example:

I wish to put forward some ideas, which I think can help: checking the area and surroundings, making sure there is no garbage lying around; cleaning the fallen leaves etc. from the drains.

a drain on sth

something that uses or wastes a lot of money or energy

Dictionary example:

Keeping these people in prison is a huge drain on government finances.

Learner example:

This need results in an ever-increasing drain on [the] country's resources.

down the drain INFORMAL

If money or work goes down the drain, it is wasted.

Dictionary example:

If you leave the course now, all your hard work will go down the drain.

Learner example:

All those evening conversations and the investment of 100,000 yen went down the drain, I thought.

globe /gləʊb/

"Word family:

Nouns: globalization, globe

Adjectives: global

Adverbs: globally

NOUN

the globe

the world

Dictionary example:

This event is being watched by 200 million people around the globe.

Learner example:

He has given numerous speeches around the globe, in which he always captivated the audience.

NOUN [NO PLURAL] LIGHT

a soft, warm light

Dictionary example:

the warm glow of the moon

Learner example:

The sun was setting, leaving a pink glow on everything it touched and the air smelled like fresh- cut grass.

SKIN

when your face feels or appears warm and healthy

Dictionary example:

Sam's face had lost its rosy glow.

Learner example:

After about three weeks of using this product by Morway Company, you will notice that your face looks softer and has a natural healthy glow.

VERB [I]

to produce a soft, warm light

Dictionary example:

toys which glow in the dark

Learner example:

You can safely invest [i]n juggling equipment that glows in the dark, has flashing lights - or even that is set afire before starting to juggle [with] it.

to have a warm and healthy appearance

Dictionary example:

Her eyes were bright and her cheeks were glowing.

Learner example:

While the tourists were getting dressed, Ingrid, a tall middle-aged woman, checked the humidity of her armpits and that reminded her of the sentence: ""Horses sweat, men perspire, women glow.""

glow with happiness/pride,etc. to feel very happy, proud, etc.

Dictionary example:

Glowing with pride, she showed me her painting.

Learner example:

I never use it, of course, but just knowing I possess it makes me glow with happiness.

NOUN [U]

a substance used to stick things together

Dictionary example:

Put a bit of glue on both edges and hold them together.

Learner example:

On the contrary, sometimes, with the help of our teachers, we had to fix them using ""emergency"" solutions and materials, such as sellotape and glue.

VERB [T] (glueing, gluing, glued)

STICK

to stick something to something else with glue

Dictionary example:

Do you think you can glue this vase back together?

Learner example:

That is why my father glued and nailed the back of it so nobody could ever open the frame.

line /laɪn/

"NOUN [C]

ROW

a row of people or things

Dictionary examples:

a line of trees

The prisoners formed a line against the wall.

Learner example:

Its facade was cut by a line of French windows and there was a large number of people in front of

the front door.

BORDER

a long thin and sometimes imaginary mark that forms the edge, border or limit of something

Dictionary examples:

That ball was definitely in! It was nowhere near the line!

The police couldn't arrest him because he'd fled across the state line.

APPROACH TO SUBJECT

a way of dealing with or thinking about something or someone

Dictionary examples:

The government's official line has always been to refuse to negotiate with terrorists. The courts should take a tougher line with sex offenders.

Several Labour MPs disagree with their party's line on taxation.

What sort of line do you think we should take in the pay negotiations?

The police are confident that this new line of inquiry will lead them to the murderer.

MILITARY

a row of positions used to defend against enemy attack, especially the ones closest to enemy positions

Dictionary example:

They were taken prisoner while on a reconnaissance mission behind enemy lines.

Learner example:

She was never afraid of going to the front line [in] battle.

(be) on the line

If someone's job, reputation, life, etc. is on the line, they may lose it.

Dictionary example:

If we don't win the contract, all our jobs are on the line.

Learner example:

The person who hopes to achieve success shouldn't be afraid of taking risks and sometimes putting his or her career on the line for the sake of gaining much bigger benefits.

the bottom line

the most important fact in a situation

Dictionary example:

The bottom line is that people's health is at risk if they smoke.

Learner example:

The bottom line is that the adults of today have to stop for a second and think about what they are doing.

along the lines of sth

based on and similar to something

Dictionary example:

He gave a talk along the lines of the one he gave in Oxford.

Learner example:

Imagine one is encouraged by friends and institutions for their 'different' artistic or other activities, even if their works are not along the lines of 'acceptable' norms and tradition.

be in line with sth

to be similar to and suitable for something

Dictionary example:

They were offered a pay increase in line with inflation.

Learner example:

The other two courses, at 5%, are still in line with the national average.

draw the line (at sth)

If someone says they know where to draw the line, they are talking about knowing at what point an activity or situation becomes unacceptable because it is wrong or too extreme

Dictionary example:

I swear a lot but even I draw the line at certain words.

Learner example:

A mistake is a mistake, people say. But in my opinion rape is not the same as shoplifting. So where do you draw the line?

sb's line of reasoning/thinking, etc.

your reasons for believing that something is true or right

Dictionary example:

I couldn't really follow his line of reasoning.

Learner example:

Similarly, the ones that follow this line of thought argue for long-living because by this, many talented and creative people will have the opportunity to develop a further concept of their thoughts and ideas; artists will have time to finish their masterpieces and all the world will ap[p]reciate their production.

(be) out of line

If someone's actions or words are out of line, they are not suitable or acceptable.

Dictionary example:

Her remarks to the press were way out of line.

Learner example:

Today I see that my mother was right in this aspect since I acted extremely out of line sometimes and a soft hand certainly wouldn't help me in the future.

read between the lines

If you read between the lines, you understand what someone really means, or what

is really happening in a situation.

Dictionary example:

Reading between the lines, it was obvious that something was wrong.

Learner example:

Having powerful [in]sight, [being] able to read between the lines of even an unwritten story and exhibiting an interdisciplinary background are, again, qualities that perfectly describe the friends that [there have been] in my life.

toe the line

to do what you are ordered or expected to do

Dictionary example:

Ministers who refused to toe the Party line were swiftly got rid of.

Learner example:

Her mother and her elder brother had always toed the line and so had she until she had reached adolescence.

VERB [T]

to form a row along the side of something

Dictionary example:

Trees and cafes lined the street.

Learner example:

Under the arch formed by the top branches of the trees which lined both sides of the street, she

was so much absorbed in her thought that she did not hear the sound of approaching steps.

take /teɪk/

"Word family: Nouns: undertaking

Verbs: take, undertake

VERB [T] (took, taken)

UNDERSTAND

to understand something in a particular way

Dictionary example:

Whatever I say she'll take it the wrong way.

take sth as it comes

to deal with something as it happens, without planning for it

Dictionary example:

With an illness like this you just have to take every day as it comes.

Learner example:

We should, for once, put our [jea]lousy aside, start to appr[e]ciate what we have and take life as it

comes.

MEASURE

to measure something

Dictionary example:

Have you taken her temperature?

The importance of absolute truth in keeping the laboratory records, in taking the temperature of the test animals, was ""engraved"" in our young minds.

I take it (that)

used when you think that what you say is probably true

Dictionary example:

I take it you're not coming with us.

NEED A QUALITY

If something takes a particular quality, you need that quality in order to be able to do it.

Dictionary example:

It takes courage to challenge your manager.

Learner example:

It takes courage to give up a certain sense of security and face the unknown.

not take kindly to sth

to not like something that someone says or does

Dictionary example:

He doesn't take kindly to criticism.

Learner example:

His wife didn't take kindly to his lateness and immediately snarled at him as though [she was] a tigress snapping her claws in a cat-fight.

take the law into your own hands

to do something illegal in order to punish someone because you know that the law will not punish that person

Dictionary example:

The police did nothing about the thefts, so they took the law into their own hands.

Learner example:

Therefore, locals are scared to death, leading to their taking the law into their own hands.

take exception to sth FORMAL

to be annoyed or insulted by something

Dictionary example:

He took exception to being asked to sweep the floor.

Learner example:

I hope you will not take exception to my words, but I think that this course of action is rather foolish and illogical.

take sth to heart

If you take criticism or advice to heart, you think about it seriously, often because it upsets you

Dictionary example:

Don't take it to heart - he was only joking about your hair.

Learner example:

I hope you will take my advi[c]e to heart.

take the plunge

to do something important or difficult, especially after thinking about it for a long time

Dictionary example:

We're finally going to take the plunge and buy a house.

Learner example:

Being unable to stand this m[y]stery, I decided to take the plunge and follow him.

take shape

to start to develop and become more clear or certain

Dictionary example:

The project is slowly beginning to take shape.

Learner example:

It is high time that their dreams took shape!

take stock (of sth)

to think carefully about a situation before making a decision

Dictionary example:

We need to pause and take stock of what still needs doing.

take its toll

to have a bad effect on someone or something, especially over a long period of time

Dictionary example:

The stress was starting to take its toll on him.

Learner example:

The famine has obviously taken its toll on him.

take a turn for the better/worse

to become better or worse suddenly

Dictionary example:

The weather took a turn for the better.

Despite all the environmental problems it is up to us to prevent things from taking a turn for the worse.

NOUN

your take on sth

your opinion about a situation

Dictionary example:

What's your take on the plan to close the library?

give and take

when people reach agreement by letting each person have part of what they want

Dictionary example:

In every friendship there has to be some give and take.

Learner example:

This relationship must be a balance of give and take, and considered as the basis for that process

of growth which should help a young person to reach a point of life in which he or she will be able to make his or her own choices, being aware of the consequences.

by /baɪ/

"PREPOSITION

do sth by the book

to do something exactly as the rules tell you

Dictionary example:

If you want to get permission for the building, you'll need to do everything by the book.

Learner example:

The upper-class people always do things by the book, follow the rules and the conventions and

therefore are stand-offish and cold.

by any chance

used to ask in a polite way whether something is possible or true

Dictionary example:

You're not Spanish by any chance, are you?

Learner example:

I pick up the phone ""Hello, Nick have you by any chance got, or seen, my diary?

by virtue of sth FORMAL

because of something

She succeeded by virtue of hard work rather than talent. Learner example:

However, you should take into consideration the expenses, which might be exorbitant by virtue of the fact that you inten[d] to create places with a beautiful ambience and a wide range of comforts offered that will facilitate residents' lives.

by all means

something that you say when you are agreeing to let someone do something

Dictionary example:

I have a copy of the report on my desk. By all means have a look at it.

Learner example:

The kitchen utensils stay next to the sink. You can make use of them by all means.

by the same token in a similar way

Dictionary example:

You have to let people know your plans in good time and, by the same token, they should give you some advance warning.

Learner example:

Our college will only benefit from this event as long as it give[s] a nice and memorable impression. By the same token, we should all be well prepared and visualise beforehand possible

manoeuvres that could appear, so that we can control the situation.

C

head /hed/

"Word family:

Nouns: head, heading

Verbs: head

NOUN [C]

keep a cool head

to remain calm in a difficult situation

Dictionary example:

To be successful in business, you need to keep a cool head in negotiations.

Learner example:

Kevin managed to keep a cool head and took over the navigation.

keep your head above water

to have just enough money to live or to continue a business

Dictionary example:

With extra income from private sponsorship, the club is just about managing to keep its head above water.

Learner example:

I also started to realise how much she had on her plate, how very little help she had and how, at

times, she had to struggle just like me to keep her head above water.

laugh/shout/scream, etc. your head off

to laugh/shout/scream, etc. very much and very loudly

Dictionary example:

When she saw the gun, she started screaming her head off.

Learner example:

Other pupils were laughing their heads off as she went.

FRONT/TOP

the front or top part of something

Dictionary example:

Who is that at the head of the table?

Learner example:

There, at the head of the q[u]eue, her uncle with his two daughters waited for her.

a roof over your head

somewhere to live

Dictionary example:

He took me in when I didn't have a roof over my head.

As for the new homes for local people it seems to be that it will be of particular importance to

homeless people, who will feel that they have a roof over their head without having to pay anything.

VERB

head off PHRASAL VERB

to start a journey or leave a place

Dictionary example:

We'll head off after lunch.

Learner example:

I grabbed my rucksack and walking stick and headed off too, even though I didn't trust the leader

- but what could I do?

let /let/

"VERB (letting, let, let)

let go (of sb/sth)

to stop holding someone or something

Dictionary examples:

Hold onto the rope and don't let go!

I let go of the feather and it floated to the ground.

Learner example:

I kicked that man as hard as I could and it worked - he let go of my mouth to hold between his legs and then I screamed with a voice w[h]ich could only be compared [to] Tarzan's.

let go (of sth)

to stop thinking about or being angry about the past or something that happened

in the past

Dictionary examples:

I have tried to let go of the past.

You've been storing up these feelings for years, and it's time to let go now.

Learner example:

It was obvious to me that he had had a hard time letting go of the past.

let's face it

something that you say when the truth is unpleasant but must be accepted

Dictionary example:

Let's face it, we're not getting any younger.

Let's face it, we live in an era dominated by machines.

let your guard down

to relax when you should be careful or ready to deal with something

Dictionary example:

He's worried that if he lets his guard down that his staff will start to become lazy.

Learner example:

That of course will go against anything Stevens has ever done and he never lets his guard down.

let your hair down INFORMAL

to relax and enjoy yourself

Dictionary example:

I'd love to see Clare let her hair down for once.

Learner example:

Holidays indeed, represent the perfect and fundamental escapism from everyday life: we are free to let our hair down and savour the pure taste of idleness.

let off steam

to get rid of your anger, excitement, etc. by being noisy or using a lot of energy

Dictionary example:

The children need to run around and let off steam.

Learner example:

I believe that listening to it on a daily basis will be an ideal way for us to relieve the day's pressure and let off steam.

open /ˈəʊ.pən/

"Word family:

Nouns: opening, openness

Verbs: open

Adjectives: open, opening

Adverbs: openly

ADJECTIVE

HONEST

An open person is honest and does not hide their feelings.

Dictionary examples:

He's quite open about his weaknesses.

I wish you'd be more open with me, and tell me what you're feeling. She has an honest, open face.

Learner example:

I was grateful to my flatmate who told me I should be open about myself.

NOT SECRET

not secret

Dictionary examples:

There has been open hostility between them ever since they had that argument last summer. The prime minister has promised an open debate on the issue.

Learner example:

The council has refused to have an open discussion with the residents.

open to abuse/criticism, etc.

likely to be abused/criticized, etc.

Dictionary example:

The system is wide open to abuse.

Learner example:

The development is also open to abuse as counterfeit products could be produced in certain markets.

keep your eyes open (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something

Dictionary example:

Keep your eyes open for anything unusual.

Learner example:

It has helped us identify and successfully combat many a nutritional hazard, keeping our eyes open to immoderate consumption of some substances and its effects.

VERB

open your heart

to tell someone your secret thoughts and feelings

Dictionary example:

That night, she opened her heart to me and I think that's when I fell in love with her.

Learner example:

It is during this excessively dramatic conversation that George opening up his heart, tells her about his interpretation of her unhappiness with Cecil.

to /tuː/

"INFINITIVE MARKER

to go

If there is a particular amount of time to go, that time remains.

Dictionary example:

There are only two weeks of term to go.

Learner example:

Right now this example is very realistic, and as I have just been told there is only 15 min to go, my stress level, I have to admit, is too high.

PREPOSITION

to sb's disappointment/relief/surprise, etc.

used to say that someone feels disappointed/relieved/surprised, etc. by

something

Dictionary example:

To Pierre's disappointment, Monique wasn't at the party.

Learner example:

However, much to my relief, in the end they reached the main square again and all went to the surrounding bars to celebrate the feast in a more relaxed way.

to death

until you die

Dictionary example:

He was beaten to death by a gang of youths.

Learner example:

She would have been trampled to death as the stampede of furious fans came over her.

to all intents and purposes

in all the most important ways

Dictionary example:

To all intents and purposes, the project was a disaster.

Learner example:

To all intents and purposes, the qualities needed to achieve success are based on the same ideas.

to the point

If something someone says or writes is to the point, it expresses the most important things without extra details.

Dictionary example:

His report was short and to the point.

to sb's satisfaction

as well as someone wants

Dictionary example:

He won't get paid until he completes the job to my satisfaction.

Learner example:

Should this matter not be solved to my satisfaction, I will have no choice but to place it in the

hands of my solicitor.

so /səʊ/

"ADVERB

so much for... INFORMAL

used to say that something has not been useful or successful

Dictionary example:

""The computer's crashed again."" ""So much for modern technology.""

Learner example:

So much for turkey, crackling and mince pies - we ended up having a Christmas party of our own

at Pizza Hut!

only so much/many

used to say that there are limits to something

Dictionary example:

There's only so much help you can give someone.

Learner example:

The effects of a longer life span have many side ef[f]ects such as an increase in the world's population and, since there is only so much food, m[any] more people are st[ar]ving to death.

I told you so

used to say that you were right and that someone should have believed you

Dictionary example:

He's lazy? I told you so, didn't I?

Learner example:

See, I told you so"", Azman said with a grin.

every so often

sometimes, but not often

Dictionary example:

He went into town every so often to buy supplies.

Learner example:

Elizabeth and others visited her every so often until [one] day she left them.

so far so good INFORMAL

used to say that something has gone well until now

Dictionary example:

It's the first time I've done any decorating, but so far so good.

Learner example:

So far so good, only no one told us they held this point of view before the actual christening took place.

so to speak

used to explain that the words you are using do not have their usual meaning

Dictionary example:

That was our accommodation, so to speak.

Learner example:

In those cases, travelling turns into a sort of alienation, so to speak.

stand /stænd/

"VERB (stood, stood)

it stands to reason

If it stands to reason that something happens or is true, it is what you would

expect.

Dictionary example:

It stands to reason that a child who is constantly criticized will have little self-confidence.

Learner example:

So it stands to reason that there is no place for Piggy in Jack's world.

STATE

[I] to be in a particular state or situation

Dictionary examples:

The house stood empty for years.

The player is currently standing second in the world rankings.

Learner example:

The cottage next to ours stood empty.

stand trial

If someone stands trial, they appear in a law court where people decide if they are guilty of a crime.

Dictionary example:

to stand trial for murder

Learner example:

He was going there in order to arrest Christians and bring them to Jerusalem to stand trial for their treason.

stand to gain/lose sth

to be in a situation where you can get/lose money or an advantage

Dictionary example:

He stands to gain a fortune if the company is sold.

Learner example:

International tourism should be encouraged, rather than reduced, because countries that are still developing stand to gain a lot from visitors from other parts of the world.

where you stand (with sb)

what someone thinks about you, how they expect you to behave, and how they are likely to behave

Dictionary example:

She said she will never leave her husband, so now at least I know where I stand.

where sb stands (on sth)

what your opinion is about something

Dictionary example:

We asked the head teacher where he stood on the wearing of jewellery in school.

Learner example:

From where I stand, some action must be taken urgently because the problems are constantly exacerbating.

stand a chance

to have a chance of success or of achieving something

Dictionary examples:

He stands a good chance of winning the election.

These kids don't stand a chance of getting an education.

Learner example:

If this measure were taken, the outcome would be of fundamental importance for the currently unemployed because they will stand a chance of finding a job and making a living.

as it stands

as something is now, without changes in it

Dictionary example:

The law as it stands is very unclear.

Learner example:

In my opinion, this debate is rooted in a deeper questioning of society's foundations: some people see society as it stands today as inherently flawed, an amorphous group of people who follow and worship anyone that gives them pleasure.

ELECTION

[I] to compete in an election for an official position

Dictionary example:

to stand for office/parliament

Learner example:

As a member of a party called Democratic Union she stood for election in Poland and is now in parliament.

stand your ground

to refuse to change your opinion or move your position despite attempts to make you

Dictionary example:

They tried to make me accept a lower wage, but I stood my ground.

Learner example:

She said she would stand her ground. In fact, she hoped that after the first flush of infatuation was over, Francis would come [to] long for his former love.

NOUN

make/take a stand

to publicly defend something or stop something from happening

Dictionary examples:

It's about time someone made a stand. He refuses to take a stand on this issue.

Learner example:

We cannot simply stand by while our greenery is being [destroy]ed, so I am making a stand.

FURNITURE

[C] a piece of furniture for holding things

Dictionary example:

a music/hat stand

Learner example:

We go backstage, the audience is still clapping and the people in the orchestra are beating with

their bow on the music stand.

bear /beər/

"Word family: Verbs: bear

Adjectives: unbearable

VERB (bore, borne)

bear a/no resemblance/relation, etc. to sb/sth

to be similar to someone or something

Dictionary example:

He bears a striking resemblance to his father.

Learner example:

The concert bore no resemblance to any other I have been to, firstly due to the location, and secondly thanks to the spontaneity, yet impressive precision of the performance - the two factors

which created the unique atmosphere of the event.

bear a grudge

to continue to have a bad feeling towards someone

Dictionary example:

They were rude to her in the past, but she's not the kind of woman who bears grudges.

Learner example:

They take everything for granted and [this] leaves them completely unprepared for the harsh reality of life - not to mention that they are likely to bear a grudge.

HAVE CHILD

FORMAL to give birth to a child

Dictionary example:

She has been told that she will never bear children.

Learner example:

Women can still bear children at the age of 30. In the past this was not possible because either the mother or the baby would have died.

bear fruit

If something that someone does bears fruit, it produces successful results.

Dictionary example:

Our decision is just beginning to bear fruit.

Learner example:

Although a new hotel and conference centre would greatly improve the image of our town, I consider it a costly investment that might not bear fruit.

grin and bear it

to accept an unpleasant or difficult situation because there is nothing you can do to improve it

Dictionary example:

I hate my job, but I'm just going to have to grin and bear it for a while.

Learner example:

As I couldn't simply get up and go away, I just had to grin and bear it for a little while longer.

way /weɪ/

"NOUN

FREE SPACE

[NO PLURAL] the space needed for a particular movement or action

Dictionary examples:

""Sorry, am I in your way? I'll move.""

If you don't move that vase out of the way, it might get broken. Don't let your new friends get in the way of your studies.

I couldn't see the stage because there was a pillar in the way.

Please make way so the ambulance can get by.

Learner example:

As Mark Twain once said ""Don't let school get in the way of your education"".

make your way

to be successful and make progress in your work

Dictionary example:

He managed to make his way in the film industry.

Learner example:

For each one of the famous sportsmen we re[cog]nise on television or in the newspapers, there are thousands of hopeful youngsters trying to make their way to the top.

go out of your way to do sth

to try very hard to do something pleasant for someone

Dictionary example:

He went out of his way to make us feel welcome.

get/have sth out of the way

to finish a task or to get rid of something unpleasant

Dictionary example:

I'll go shopping when I've got this essay out of the way.

Learner example:

It was a joyful reunion and everybody was grateful to have all misunderstandings out of the way and to be one big family once more.

in a big way INFORMAL

used to say that someone or something does something to a large degree

Dictionary example:

They celebrate birthdays in a big way.

Learner example:

Tourism helps Greece's national economy - which is not at its best - in a big way.

be under way

to be already happening

Dictionary example:

Building work is already under way.

Learner example:

Sociologists are well-aware of the fact and experiments are under way to counterbalance these disadvantages.

give way to sth

to change into something else

Dictionary example:

Her excitement quickly gave way to horror.

Learner example:

This friendship gave way to love, but it was a really difficult situation, after all she was the Managing Director's daughter.

give way

If something gives way, it falls because it is not strong enough to support the weight on top of it.

Dictionary example:

Suddenly the ground gave way under me.

Learner example:

Fred's voice trailed off as he felt his legs give way beneath him.

make way for sth

to be replaced by someone or something

They knocked down the old houses to make way for a new hotel. Learner example:

In the UK most high-streets already look very much the same and the local shops had to make way for big conglomerates.

pave the way

If something paves the way for something else, it makes the other thing possible.

Dictionary example:

Scientists hope that data from the probe will pave the way for a more detailed exploration of Mars.

Learner example:

Many celebrities engage actively in UN projects and pave the way for others to contribute.

do/learn sth the hard way

to do or learn something by experiencing a lot of problems or difficulty

Dictionary example:

I learned the hard way that training every single day is not the best way to get fit.

Learner example:

If you don't know the past, you're liable to live through it again as instead of deriving the lessons from someone else's experiences, you'll have to learn them the hard way, by trial and error.

thread your way through/between, etc.

to move carefully through a crowded place, changing direction in order to avoid people or things

Dictionary example:

She threaded her way through the crowd.

Learner example:

And if I thread my way through the crowd along the street, I can find almost all things I want to

buy, from inexpensive souvenirs to internationally known brands of suits.

back /bæk/

"Word family: Nouns: backing

Verbs: back

ADVERB

back and forth

in one direction, then the opposite way, then in the original direction again many

times

Dictionary example:

He has to travel back and forth between London and Paris every week.

Learner example:

Finally, after much walking back and forth, we found a road which we followed till we got to the town.

NOUN [C]

back to front

with the back part of something where the front should be

Dictionary example:

You've got your trousers on back to front.

Learner example:

Therefore, the government needs to cut expenditure and as a result of this, health faciliti[es] will only be accessible for rich people. Then we are back to front.

behind sb's back

If you do something behind someone's back, you do it without them knowing,

often in an unfair way.

Dictionary example:

Have they been saying things about me behind my back?

Learner example:

The food must be perfect, too, or else her mother-in-law and my father's sisters will think that

she's not a proper wife, and will probably say insulting things about her behind her back.

turn your back on sb/sth

to decide to stop having contact with someone or something, or to refuse to help someone

Dictionary example:

She turned her back on Hollywood and went to live in Florida.

Learner example:

She gets to learn that Olivia turned her back on her past and merged totally with India through her attraction to and sympathy for the Nawab.

be (like) water off a duck's back

If criticisms, insults, etc. are like water off a duck's back to you, they do not affect you at all.

Dictionary example:

She calls him lazy and useless, but it's like water off a duck's back.

Learner example:

The main lesson I have learned is by looking at some people who have lived alone for most of their life and faced with neither contradiction nor argument, they stay in their ivory tower, so sure of their opinions that whatever you say is like water off a duck's back.

VERB

back (sth) away/into/out, etc.

to move backwards or drive backwards

Dictionary examples:

She saw he had a gun and backed away.

He backed into a wall when he was trying to park.

Learner example:

When he backed out of the [car park] he almost crashed into another car.

SUPPORT

[T] to give support or help to a person, plan, or idea

Dictionary examples:

He backed Mr Clark in the recent election. Parents backed the idea by more than two to one.

Learner example:

Of course, without [the] people wh[o] are backing the leader in his fight, he could not achieve his

success.

NOUN

in the background

If a person stays in the background, they try not to be noticed.

Dictionary example:

His father hovered in the background.

Learner example:

But Piggy plays this role in the background because he knows that he won't be accepted.

go /gəʊ/

"VERB (going, went, gone)

SOUND/MOVEMENT

[I or T] to make a particular sound or movement

Dictionary examples:

A cat goes 'Miaow'.

""Your dog's behaving oddly!"" - ""He goes like that when he wants some food.""

WORKING

[I] to work in the right way

Dictionary example:

Did you get the car going?

to go

If there is a particular amount of time to go, that time remains.

Dictionary example:

There are only two weeks of term to go.

Learner example:

Right now this example is very realistic, and as I have just been told there is only 15 min to go, my stress level, I have to admit, is too high.

to gradually become worse

Dictionary example:

After his wife died, his health started to go downhill.

Learner example:

He had been going downhill in the last few days and so his death came as no surprise.

go overboard INFORMAL

to do something too much, or to be too excited about something

Dictionary example:

I think people go overboard with presents at Christmas.

Learner example:

While no one should restrict their eating habits to the point eating is no longer a pleasure, but rather a chore, it is important not to go overboard, completely disregarding the advice of nutrition experts.

go out of your way to do sth

to try very hard to do something pleasant for someone

Dictionary example:

He went out of his way to make us feel welcome.

go through the motions

to do something because you are expected to do it and not because you want to

Dictionary example:

These days when we go out, I feel as though he's just going through the motions.

Learner example:

She went through the motions of every-day-life without enthusiasm.

go so far as to do sth

to take the extreme action of doing something

Dictionary example:

He even went so far as to stop her using the telephone.

Learner example:

Our present course of action may go so far as to cause irrevers[i]ble damage not only to our planet but also to the people living upon [it].

go too far

to behave in a way that upsets or annoys other people

Dictionary example:

He's said some stupid things in the past, but this time he's gone too far.

Learner example:

Lucia let her speak and calmly said: ""You really have gone too far this time.""

to do or accept what other people are doing because it is the easiest thing to do

Dictionary example:

Just relax and go with the flow!

Learner example:

At this stage of her progress towards knowing herself better she has accepted that life is a mu[dd]le and that to a certain extent one has to go with the flow.

go against the grain

If something goes against the grain, you would not normally do it because it would be unusual or morally wrong.

Dictionary example:

It goes against the grain to throw all this food away.

Learner example:

She tries to dodge George because she is afraid of admitting the fact that she loves him. It simply goes against the grain.

go through the roof

If the level of something, especially a price, goes through the roof, it increases very quickly.

Dictionary example:

The price of corn has gone through the roof recently.

Learner example:

Try extreme sports and feel your adrenaline levels going through the roof!

be still going strong

continuing to be successful or healthy after a long time

Dictionary examples:

The club was set up in 1987, and it's still going strong. He's 93 and still going strong!

Learner example:

I am proud of him and happy that he is still going strong.

NOUN [C] (PLURAL goes)

make a go of sth

to try to make something succeed, usually by working hard

Dictionary example:

They're determined to make a go of their business.

touch and go

used to describe a situation that is uncertain

Dictionary example:

The doctor says it is touch and go whether Mary will recover.

Learner example:

The idea of earning a lot certainly appeals to me but it's touch and go whether the job may bring a

lot of money right from the start.

part /pɑːt/

"Word family: Nouns: part Adjectives: partial

Adverbs: partly, partially

NOUN

on the part of sb; on sb's part done or experienced by someone

Dictionary examples:

This is a major sacrifice on the part of the unions.

The accident was caused by carelessness on the instructor's part.

Learner example:

It seems that international sports competitions have always tended to attract a great amount of interest on the part of the media and have consistently been popular with sports fans the world over.

in part FORMAL

partly

Dictionary example:

He is in part to blame for the accident.

Learner example:

Technology is in part to blame.

the best/better part of sth

most of a period of time

Dictionary example:

It took the better part of the afternoon to put those shelves up.

Learner example:

Major sporting competitions have been around for the better part of 2500 years, ever since the original Olympic Games were held in ancient Greece.

part and parcel

If something is part and parcel of an experience, it is a necessary part of that experience and cannot be avoided.

Dictionary example:

Stress is part and parcel of the job.

Learner example:

This is true to a certain extent as food is often part and parcel of traditional rituals.

VERB

SEPARATE

If two sides of something part, they become separated, and if you part them, you make them separate.

Dictionary example:

Slowly her lips parted and she smiled.

Learner example:

There we were, three rather dishevelled young men with a stench that parted a path for us like Moses did the Red Sea.

LEAVE

FORMAL If two people part, or if one person parts from another, they leave each other.

Dictionary example:

That summer, after six years of marriage, we parted.

Learner example:

It was on my seventeenth birthday that he gave me a little blue and shimmering box, but said I

couldn't open it until the day we parted.

presence /ˈprez.ənts/

"Word family:

Nouns: presence, present Verbs: present Adjectives: present

Adverbs: presently

NOUN

QUALITY

[U] a quality that makes people notice and admire you

Dictionary example:

She's only small, but she has real presence.

He derived great benefit from her soothing presence, but otherwise was too duty-bound to notice their relationship went haywire.

make your presence felt

to have a strong effect on other people

Dictionary example:

The new police chief has really made his presence felt.

Learner example:

Before long a local bicycle gang was formed which would ride all over the village, through fields and gardens, making our presence felt.

POLICE/SOLDIERS

[NO PLURAL] a group of police or soldiers who are watching or controlling a situation

Dictionary example:

a strong police presence

Learner example:

People residing in [the] countryside find themselves living in fear, claiming that the lack of police presence and protection has resulted in great insecurity.

FEELING

[USUALLY NO PLURAL] a feeling that someone is still in a place although they are not there or are dead

Dictionary example:

His daughter's presence seemed to fill the empty bedroom.

Learner example:

There was something there that disturbed him, he felt a strange presence but couldn't describe what it was.

presence of mind

the ability to deal with a difficult situation quickly and effectively

Dictionary example:

She had the presence of mind to press the alarm.

Learner example:

Frank tried to hide a bag behind his back with great presence of mind.

present

Word family:

Nouns: presence, present Verbs: present Adjectives: present

Adverbs: presently

Author

Joshua S.

Information

Last changed