if something must on no account/not on any account be

must not be done at any time or for any reason (the de

should be obtained from dictionary.cambridge.o

to start to organize yourself so that you do things in an e

way
add insult to injury said when you feel that someone has made a bad situat
if you can ill afford to do something, it will cause problems for yo
by doing something else to upset you
cannot afford / can ill afford [formal] itused when you have had a new thought that is different from or
then/there again opposite of what you have just said
raise the alarm to make people understand the danger of something
be alive and well/kicking to continue to live or exist and be full of energy or continue to be
keep sb at arm's length or
notsuccessful
allow someone to become too friendly with you
if you ask me said when giving your opinion on something
back and forth moving first in one direction and then in the opposite one
If you do something behind someone's back, you do it without th
on no account knowing, in a way that is unfair
in the balance If a situation is in the balance, it has reached a stage where it w
start/set/get the ball rolling decided one waythat
to do something or another
starts an activity, or to start doing somethin
jump/climb/get on the bandwagon to encourage
become other
involved in people to do
an activity theissame
that successful so that you can
with your bare hands advantages of it yourself
without using any type of tool or weapon
into the bargain in addition to other facts previously mentioned
hold/keep sb/sth at bay to prevent sb/sth unpleasant from harming you
bear fruit [formal] if sth that sb does bears fruit, it produces successful results
off the beaten track/path In a place where few people go, far from any main roads and to
be behind sb If a bad experience or your own bad behaviour is behind you, it
to make
exist someone
or affect your very angry, especially by continuing to do som
life now
drive/send sb round the bend annoying
unable to control yourself because of the strength of emotion yo
be beside yourself feeling
at the best of times even when the circumstances are very good
be a safe bet something
used to tell that is likelywhat
somebody to happen, to succeed
is the best or to
action for be suitable
them to take to
be your best bet (informal) result they want
beyond compare (literary) better than anything else of the same kind
if you know or believe something beyond a shadow of a doubt,
beyond a shadow of a doubt certain that it is true
bits and pieces/bobs (informal) small objects or items of various kinds
continuing until you have done everything you can, or until some
to the bitter end completely finished, despite difficulties and problems
a blanket of sth (figurative) a thick layer or covering of something
in the blink of an eye very quickly; in a short time
make sb's blood boil make someone extremely angry
a sound, sight, or thought that makes your blood run cold frighte
make sb's blood run cold very much
blow sb's mind If
tosomething
fail to take blows your mind,
advantage you find it very
of an opportunity exciting
by doing or and unus
saying so
blow it / blow your chance wrong
across the board happening or having an effect on people at every level and in ev
keep body and soul together to be able to pay fororyour food, clothing,
something that two more people argueand somewhere
about to live
strongly over a
a bone of contention period of time
have a bone to pick with sb to wantare
to in
talk to someone about something annoying they have
If you someone's good/bad books, they are pleased/not p
be in sb's good/bad books with you
go by the book / do sth by the book to do something exactly as the rules tell you
the bottom line the most important fact in a situation
break fresh/new ground to do or discover something new
break it/the news to sb to be the first to tell somebody some bad news
with bated breath in an anxious (= worriedthat
andisnervous)
someone or something new and or excitedand
different waymakes eve
a breath of fresh air seem more exciting
hold your breath to wait for something to happen, often feeling anxious
under your breath quietly so that other people cannot hear exactly what you are sa
(have) a rough/bumpy ride [INFORMAL] have a difficult time
a bundle of nerves someone who is extremely nervous and worried
burn the midnight oil work late at night
call it a day stop the work sb doing
be on/in the cards likely to happen
carry weight to be considered serious and important enough to influence oth
catch sb's eye to be attractive or different enough to be noticed by someone
(the) chances are it is likely
a change of heart change your opinion or the waythat
youhas
feelbeen
aboutworrying
something
tell someone about something you or m
get sth off your chest feel guilty for a long time
seem angry all the time because you think you have been treate
have a chip on your shoulder or feel you are not as good as other people
clear the air remove the bad feelings among people
be in the clear not guilty of a crime, or not involved in doing something bad
behind closed doors do something secretly without public knowing
be on cloud nine to be extremely
If someone kills happy andblood
in cold excited they kill mercilessly and show
in cold blood emotion
find common ground find a shared
a situation in beliefs or opinions
which someone between
cannot two
make groups
a fair decision beca
a conflict of interest will be affected by the result
keep a cool head / keep your head stay calm despite difficulties
lose your cool become very angry
(just) around the corner coming very soon
at the crack of dawn very early in the morning, especially
prevent someone from having a goodattime,
the time when the
especially sun fir
by going
cramp sb's style [humorous] somewhere with them
cross sb's path / cross paths with sb meet sb by chance
cry your eyes out cry a lot
crystal clear easy to understand or extremely clear
not be cut out for sth to not be the right type of person for something
don't you dare [INFORMAL] used to tell someone angrily not to do something
be in the dark to not know about something that other people know about
make sb's day to make someone happy
deep in thought thinking very hard
jump in at the deep end / throw sb in at the deep end start doing something new and difficult without help or preparati
run/go deep be
notstrong
havingorthe
serious and has
knowledge, existed forora skills
experience, long time
to deal with a pa
out of your depth subject or situation
If something is beneath your dignity, you feel that you are too im
beneath one's dignity do it
on the dot exactly at the stated or expected time
be down to sb [INFORMAL] to be someone's responsibility or decision
down under (in or to) Australia or New Zealand
down the drain/gurgler If work or money is or goes down the drain, it is spoiled or waste
down and out having no luck, no money, and no opportunities
go downhill to gradually become worse
draw the line (at sth) to never do sth because you think it is wrong
beyond your wildest dreams much better thansomething
you imagined or hoped
used to say that is better than anything you could im
not/never in your wildest dreams hope for
used to say that you would not do something because you think
wouldn't dream of sth/doing sth or silly talking about something, especially because it is upsettin
to stop
drop it/the subject annoying
something small and unimportant, esp. when compared with so
a drop in the ocean/bucket else
(down) in the dumps/mouth unhappy
a nest egg an amount ofismoney
if something not thethat
endhas been
of the saved
world, or kept
it will for a special
not cause very sep
not be the end of the world [informal] problems
be endowed with sth to have a particular quality or feature
at the expense of sb / at sb's expense making another person look silly
keep your eyes open (for sb/sth) to watch carefully for someone or something, often whil
doing something
to watch carefullyelse
for sb/sth
keep your eyes peeled/skinned (for sb/sth)
lose face to become less respected by others
keep a straight face to manage to stop yourself from smiling or laughing
in the face of sth despite having to deal with a difficult situation or proble
on the face of it used when you are describing how a situation seems on
a slap in the face surface
an action that insults or upsets someone
to sb's face if you say sth unpleasant to sb's face, you say it to them
let's face it when you are
something together
that you say before you say something that i
fall into place unpleasant but fall
1) when things trueinto place, they happen in a satisfact
fall on deaf ears without problems;
if a suggestion 2) whenfalls
or warning events or details
on deaf ears, that youliste
no one did

go too far [informal] to behave in a way that upsets or annoys people

a fast track (to sth) a very quick way of achieving or dealing with something
(life in) the fast lane a way of living that is full of excitement, activity, and oft
danger
be no mean feat [informal] to be a great achievement
put your feet up to relax, especially by sitting with your feet supported a
cross your fingers / keep your fingers crossed ground
to hope very much that something will happen
put your finger on sth to discover the exact reason why a situation is the way i
at your fingertips especially
if you havewhen something
information is wrong
at your fingertips, you can get it
come under fire it
tovery easily
be criticized
play with fire to act in a way that is very dangerous and to take risks
set fire to sth/sb to cause something or someone to start burning
put sb/sth first to treat someone or something as being more important
anyone or suddenly
quickly or anything else
in a flash / quick as a flash [informal]
be sb's own flesh and blood to be someone's relation
go with the flow be relaxed and accept a situation, rather than trying to a
control it
to completely oppose what seems sensible or normal
fly in the face of sth [informal]
follow in sb's footsteps to do the same thing as someone else did previously
start / get off on the right/wrong foot to make a successful/unsuccessful start in something
put your foot down to use your authority to stop something happening
put your foot in it / put your foot in your mouth to say something by accident that embarrasses or upset
lay the basis/foundations of/for someone
to produce the basic ideas or structures from which som
the frontiers of sth much larger
the limits develops
of what is known or what has been done befor
a free hand area of knowledge or to
the right or authority ando
activity
anything you consider neces
give way (to sth) / make way for sth to be replaced by something, especially because it is be
cheaper, easier,
to be unable etc. watching something
to stop
be glued to sth [informal]
go against the grain if something goes against the grain, you would not usua
grasp the nettle because it wouldto
to force yourself bebe
unusual
brave and do something that is d
be green with envy unpleasant
to be very unhappy because someone has something th
grin and bear it want
to accept something bad without complaining
come/get to grips with sth to make an effort to understand and deal with a problem
grit your teeth situation
to accept a difficult situation and deal with it in a determ
be on (your) guard to be careful to avoid being tricked or getting into a dan
catch sb off guard situation
to surprise someone by doing something that they are n
expecting or ready
to stop guarding for against trouble; to relax one's v
oneself
let your guard down
drop/lower your guard to stop being careful to avoid danger or difficulty
let your hair down
get/gain the upper hand to get into a stronger position than someone else so tha
get out of hand controlling
to become a situation
difficult to control
at the hands of sb If you suffer at the hands of someone, they hurt you or t
get/lay/put your hands on sth badly.
to find something
have your hands full to be so busy that you do not have time to do anything
in hand being worked on or dealt with now
on/to hand
have (got) to hand it to sb If you say you have (got) to hand it to someone you mea
get the hang of sth they have
to learn been
how very
to do successfulespecially
something, or skilful if it is not obvio
the hard way simple
a way of doing something that makes it more difficult th
have it in for sb needs to be.
to not like sb Ifand
yoube
learn something
unpleasant the hard way, you le
to them
keep your head above water to just be able to manage, especially when you have fin
laugh, shout, scream, etc. your head off difficulties
open your heart to tell someone about your problems and secrets
at heart
take sth to heart If you take criticism or advice to heart, you think about i
hell of a / helluva seriously, often because
Used to emphasize it upsets
something veryyou
bad or great
like hell (1) very fast, much, hard, etc. (used for emphasis) (2) us
hold down a job ironic expressions
to manage to keepofa scorn
job forora disagreement
period of time
hold your own / hold your (own) ground (1) to not become more ill or more weak (2) to be as suc
(not) hold water as
If aother people
reason, or things
argument, or in a situationholds water, it is t
explanation
ring/sound hollow If something someone says rings hollow, it does not sou
go/sell like hot cakes or sincere.
to be bought quickly and in large numbers
be ill at ease to be worried and not relaxed
the ins and outs of sth the detailed or complicated facts of something
to/for all intents and purposes in all the most important ways
itch to do sth / itch for sth to want to do something very much and as soon as poss
do the job to be effective or successful in doing what you want
do/make a good/bad, etc. job of sth to do something well/badly
jump to conclusions
the jury is (still) out If the jury is (still) out on a subject, people do not yet kn
do justice to sb/sth / do sb/sth justice answer
to treat or have not
someone or yet decidedin
something if a
it way
is good
thatorisbad
fair and
keep (sb) at it their or its
to make true qualities
someone continue to work hard
not take kindly to sth to not like something
know your stuff/onions [old-fashioned] to have good practical skills and knowledge in a particul
know best activity
to be theormost
subject
suitable person to have responsibility and
know better (than to do sth) important
to be wise decisions
or moral enough not to do something
labour of love a piece of hard work that you do because you enjoy it an
at large because you will receive money or praise for it, or becau
the last sb heard/saw of sb/sth the last time someone heard anything about someone o
take the law into your own hands something or theillegal
to do something last time
andsomeone saw in
often violent him, her,toorpun
order it
by/in leaps and bounds someone
If someone because you know
or something getsthe law will
better not
by/in punish
leaps andthat
bou
not in the least she, or it improves
not in any way very quickly
leave sb to their own devices to allow someone to make their own decisions about wh
leave no stone unturned to do everything you can to achieve a good result, espe
the length and breadth of somewhere when
If youlooking for length
travel the something
and breadth of a place, you go t
let go part of it
to stop holding something; to stop thinking about or bein
let's face it about the past
something thator
yousomething that
say before youhappened in the past
say something that i
cast/shed/throw light on sth unpleasant but true
Something or someone that casts/sheds/throws light on
come to light / bring sth to light situation provides
If facts come an explanation
to light, they becomefor it or information
known publicly th
within limits to some extent, but not allowing everything
along the lines of sth / along those lines similar in type
in line with sth similar to, or at the same level as something
(be) on the line to be at risk
(step/be) out of line behave in an unsuitable way
read between the lines to try to understand someone's real feelings or intention
loom large what they saylooms
If something or write
large, it becomes very important and
lose heart causes
to stop worry
believing that you can succeed
lose sight of sth to forget about an important idea or fact because you a
lose sleep over/about sth thinking
to worry too much
about about other things
something
be at a loss not to know what to do or say
be lost for words to be so shocked, surprised, full of admiration, etc. that
bring a lump to your throat cannot
to give speak
you/to have a tight feeling in your throat becaus
make do want to cry to live without things that you would like to h
to manage
leave your/its mark (on sb/sth) with things
to have of a worse
an effect quality than
that changes you would
someone like
or something, u
make a/your mark (on sth) a
tobad way
have an important effect on something
be a matter of life and/or death to be very serious
mean well to do what you think will be helpful, although by doing it
by all means might cause
used to give problems without intending to
permission
a means to an end something that you do because it will help you to achiev
in memory of sb something
as a way ofelse
remembering someone who has died
(take) a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane to remember happy times in the past
have sth on your mind to be worrying about something
in your mind's eye in your imagination or memory
mind (you) used when you want to make what you have just said so
strong
mind your own business [humorous]
the minute (that) at the exact or first moment when
miss the boat/bus to lose an opportunity to do something by being slow to
be in the mood to feel like doing or having something
go through the motions [disapproving] to do something without thinking it is very important or
get a move on much interest in it
to hurry
so much for sth used to express disappointment at the fact that a situati
the naked eye as you thought
If something canit be
wasseen with the naked eye, it can be s
in the name of sth / in sth's name without
(said or the help
done) in of an instrument
order to help a particular thing succeed
make a name for yourself
you name it
neck and neck If two competitors are neck and neck, they are level with
hit/touch/strike a (raw) nerve other andsomeone
to upset have an equal chance of winning.
be news to sb to be information that someone did not know before
the next thing I knew used to talk about part of a story that happens in a sudd
none the worse, better, richer, etc. surprising way better, richer, etc. than before
not any worse,
none too [formal] not very
make (a) nonsense of sth to make something appear stupid or wrong, or to spoil s
poke/stick your nose into sth to try to discover things which do not involve you
((out) from) under your nose used about something bad that happens in an obvious w
be nothing if not generous, honest, helpful, etc. a waytothat
used you do not
emphasize notice
that or cannot
someone prevent is extrem
or something
generous, honest, helpful, etc.:
go/get/head nowhere to not have any success or achieve anything
against (all) the odds/against all odds If you do or achieve something against (all) the odds/ag
gh odds, you do or achieve it although there were a lot of p
to disagree
be one of a kind to be very unusual and special
go overboard to do something too much, or to be too excited or eager
get your own back (on sb) something
to do something unpleasant to someone because they h
(be) part and parcel of sth something unpleasant
to be a feature to you especially a feature that c
of something,
the best/better part of avoided
most of
on the part of sb/on sb's part done or experienced by someone
go through a bad/difficult/rough/sticky patch to experience a lot of problems in a period of your life
pave the way If something paves the way for/to something else, it ma
pay the price other thing possible
to experience the bad result of something you have don
pick up the pieces to try to return to a satisfactory situation
get the picture to understand
go/fall to pieces If someone goes/falls to pieces, that person becomes un
put sb in their place think
to tellclearly
or showand control that
someone theirthey
emotions because
are less of some
important tha
play (sth) by ear thought
to play a piece of music by remembering the notes
play it by ear to decide how to deal with a situation as it develops, rat
play games acting according
to try to to plans made earlier
deceive someone
pluck up your courage / pluck up (the) courage to do to force yourself to be brave enough to do something, a
sth
take the plunge you are frightened
to make a decision or
to worried about itespecially after thin
do something,
a sore point about it for
a subject a long
that time prefers not to talk about becaus
someone
to the point makes themsomething
expressing angry or embarrassed
very important or suitable for the
be poles apart being discussed
completely opposite
be at a premium to be not common and therefore valuable
make your presence felt to have a strong effect on other people or on a situation
be/fall prey to sth to be hurt or deceived by someone or something bad
at any price If you want something at any price, you are willing to do
swallow your pride in
to order
decidetotoget
doitsomething although it will make you feel
be in the process of doing sth embarrassed or doing
to have started ashamed
something
in the process If you are doing something, and you do something else i
pull your weight process,
to work asthe second
hard thingpeople
as other happens
in aas a result of doing t
group
pull strings to secretly use the influence you have over important pe
have/keep your finger on the pulse order to get
to be/stay something
familiar with or
thetomost
helprecent
someone
changes or
if/when push comes to shove improvements
If something can be done if push comes to shove, it can
put sb on the spot if
If the
you situation becomes
put someone sospot,
on the bad that
you you have
cause to do
them it
embarr
an unknown quantity or difficulty
a person or by forcing
a thing them
whose at that moment
abilities, to effects
powers, or answerara
be out of the question / be no question of (doing) sth known
to be an event that cannot possibly happen
at any rate whatever happens; something you say to show that you
at this rate going to say something
if the situation more
stays as it is exactly
reap the benefit, reward, etc. to get something good as a result of your own actions
recharge your batteries to rest and relax for a period of time so that you feel ene
be a recipe for disaster, trouble, success, etc. again
to be very likely to become a disaster, success, etc.
red tape official rules and processes that seem unnecessary and
be in the red results
If you or your bank account are in the red, you owe mon
bank
be far removed from sth [formal] to be very different from something
in good, bad, etc. repair / in a good, bad, etc. state of in good, bad, etc. condition
repair
be your last resort to be the only person or thing that might be able to hel
retrace your steps when every
go back to aother
placeperson or possibility
in the same way that has
youfailed
came
ring a bell to sound familiar
a riot of colour extremely colourful and bright
run riot
ripe for developed to a suitable condition for something to happ
give rise to to cause sth
rock the boat [informal] If you rock the boat, you do or say something that will u
go through the roof / hit the roof people or cause
to get very angryproblems.
a roof over your head a place to live
learn/know the ropes to learn/know how to do a job or activity
round of applause a period of time during which people are clapping
be running at sth to be at the rate of something
run wild [disapproving] If someone, often a child, runs wild, that person behaves
make a run for it want to without
to suddenly startbeing controlled
running in orderby
toanyone.
escape from somew
be (stuck) in a rut to not have changed what you do or how you do it for a
be in the same boat time
to beso
in that it is not
the same interesting
unpleasant any longer
situation as other people
by the same token used to mean that something you are about to say is als
to say nothing of ... for
andthe same reasons
in addition as...what has just been said
there is
behind the scenes If something happens behind the scenes, it happens wit
most people knowing about it, especially when somethin
happening publicly.
(not be/come) up to scratch reaching an acceptable standard
see eye to eye (with sb) to agree with sb
see red to become very angry
see sense/reason to be reasonable and have good judgment
take shape to start to develop a more clear or certain form
have your (fair) share of sth to have a lot or more than enough of something bad
send shivers down/up your spine / a shiver down your to feel very frightened or excited
spine
cut sth short to have to stop doing something before it is finished
a shoulder to cry on someone who is willing to listen to your problems and gi
sick to your stomach sympathy,
1) likely to emotional support,
vomit; 2) feeling and
very encouragement
upset, worried, angry
on the side 1) in addition to your main job; 2) secretly; 3) (US) (of fo
put/lay sth on/to one side restaurant) served on another
to not use something, plate,
especially or on the
an amount of side of thin
money,
lose sight of sth keep it forabout
to forget later an
useimportant idea or fact because you ar
thinking too much about other things
set your sights/heart on sth to decide to achieve sth
have sth up your sleeve [informal] to have secret plans or ideas
slip sb's memory/mind to be forgotten
be snowed under (with sth) to have so much work that you have problems dealing w
only so much/many used to say that there are limits to something
be (really) something [informal] to be very special or admired
be something of a sth used to describe a person or thing in a way that is partly
[informal]
something like not completely
similar to or exactly
would (just) as soon / would sooner If you would (just) as soon do something or would soone
not be on speaking terms something, you
If you are not onwould prefer
speaking to do
terms it rather
with than you
someone, someth
refu
so to speak speak
used totoexplain
them because you
that what are
you angry
are with
saying is them
not to be un
speak your mind exactly as stated
to say what you think about something very directly
speak volumes If something speaks volumes, it makes an opinion, chara
speaks for itself or situation very
If something clear
speaks forwithout
itself, itthe use ofand
is clear words
needs no fu
make a splash explanation
to become suddenly very successful or very well known
have a soft spot for sb/sth to feel that you like someone/ something very much
on the spot immediately
spring to mind to come quickly into your mind
on the spur of the moment used to say that a decision, action, etc. is sudden and do
at stake without any planning
If something that is valuable is at stake, it is in a situati
it stands to reason it might
said whenbesomething
lost is obvious or clear from the facts
know where you stand to know what your opinion or situation is
stand your ground to refuse to be pushed backwards, or to continue in you
stay put in
to an argument
remain in the same place or position
let/blow off steam to do or say something that helps you to get rid of stron
steer clear of sb/sth or energysomeone or something that seems unpleasant,
to avoid
take stock (of sth) dangerous,
to examine or likely to cause
a situation problems
carefully
a stone's throw a very short distance
stop short of sth If you stop short of doing or saying something, you decid
do or much
to be say it although
better or you
muchalmost
more do.
advanced than anothe
be streets ahead (of sb/sth) [informal]
(no) strings (attached) person
If something such as an agreement has strings attached
be going strong involves special
to continue demands
to exist and beorsuccessful
limits: or work well, after
period
as expected
sure enough [informal]
a double-edged sword Something that is double-edged acts in two ways, often
can take it / I take it negative
said if youand onethat
think positive
what effect
you say is likely to be true, al
is not proved
give and take willingness to accept suggestions from another person a
take sth as it comes up
to deal withyour
some of own as it happens, without planning f
something
be in good/bad/poor, the best/worst possible, etc. to be acceptable in a way that will not upset or anger pe
taste
teach sb a lesson A person or experience that teaches you a lesson impro
I told you so! future behaviour
said when by making
something you experience
bad happens after youthe bad effe
warned som
touch and go that it would is
If a situation happen
touch-and-go, it is uncertain
(I'll) tell you what used to suggest a plan
come to terms with sth to gradually accept a sad situation, often the death of so
be on good, friendly, etc. terms (with sb) you lovea good, friendly, etc. relationship with someone
to have
be at / reach the end of your tether/rope having no strength or patience left
thick and fast quickly and in large numbers
through thick and thin If you support or stay with someone through thick and th
disappear/vanish into thin air always support
to disappear or stay and
suddenly withcompletely
them, even if there are prob

do your own thing [informal] to do what you want without worrying about what anyon
who would have thought it? thinks
used toofsay
youthat you are very surprised something has h

this and that / this, that, and the other [informal] various things
thread your way through, between, etc. sth to move carefully through a crowded space, changing di
on the threshold of sth order
at theto avoid
start of apeople or things
new and important time or developmen
throw caution to the wind/winds to act in a completely reckless manner
tie the knot to get married
be in a tight corner/spot to be in a difficult situation
tighten your belt to spend less money than you did before because you h
money
to make things difficult or unpleasant for sb
give sb a hard time [informal]
have no time for sb to disapprove of sb and not want to be involved with the
time flies [saying] used to mean that time passes surprisingly quickly
(be the) tip of the iceberg a small, noticeable part of a problem, the total size of w
really
sb/sth much greater
that keeps you on your toes forces you to continu
(keep sb/yourself) on their/your toes
take its/a toll on sb/sth directing all your
to cause harm or attention andsb/sth
suffering on energy to what you are d
from top to bottom If you search, paint, etc. a building from top to bottom, y
search, paint,
extremely etc. all parts of it
happy
(be/feel) on top of the world
over the top [informal] too extreme and not suitable, or demanding too much a
to top it (all) off / topping it (all) off or effort,
to add sthespecially in an uncontrolled
else unusually way
good or bad to a situation that
torn between sth and sth already
finding itunusual
difficult to choose between sth and sth
throw/chuck in the towel to admit defeat
do the trick [informal] if sth does the trick, it has the necessary or wanted effe
turn your back on sb/sth // turn away from sth to refuse to help sb
turn your nose up (at sth) to refuse to accept sth because you feel that it is not go
turn over a new leaf enough for you in a better way
to start behaving
make yourself understood to communicate effectively
come in useful/handy/etc. to be useful and help sb to do or achieve sth
nothing ventured, nothing gained [saying] You have to take risk in order to get sth good.
on the verge (of) / to the verge of if you are on the verge of sth or come to the verge of sth
if you say that sth is wasted on sb, you mean that its quality is to
wasted on sb very close to experiencing it
that person and they will not understand its true value
be (like) water off a duck's back criticisms of or warnings to a particular person that have
to be very
on active so that other people notice you, often in a way
effect that person
make waves [informal] intentionally causes trouble
be on the same wavelength (of two or more people) to think in a similar way and to understa
get sth out of the way other well sth
to finish
go out of your way to try very hard to do sth, esp. for sb else
make thin
wear your[informal]
way to travel
1) If youror move towears
patience a place
thin, you become less and less
2) If sth such as
not feeling well a joke wears thin, it becomes boring or
be/feel under the weather
what with [informal] used to talk about the reasons for a particular situation,
not sleep a wink / not get a wink of sleep especially a bad
to not sleep at allor difficult situation
in sb's words used when you repeat what sb said
word for word using exactly the same words
do sb the world of good to make sb feel much happier or healthier
out of this world [informal] extremely good
fear the worst to think sth unpleasant might have happened
be worth your while to be an activity or action that you will get an advantage
don't get me wrong said when you think someone might not understand wha
n no account/not on any account be done, it Employees must on no account make personal phone calls from the
any time or for any reason (the definitions office. (there should be only one example in this field, but you can add
d from dictionary.cambridge.org) more examples and/or usage notes if you wish, using Insert-->Note;
entries with more examples and/or usage notes will have the black
ourself so that you do things in an effective triangle
She's so disorganized
at the top- I wish she'd)get her act together.
corner

hat someone has made a bad situation worse I was late and, to add insult to injury, forgot my keys.
o something, it will cause problems for you if you do
else to upset you We can ill afford to lose another member of staff.
ad a new thought that is different from or the
ave just said I like to travel but, then again, I'm very fond of my home.
erstand the danger of something
st and be full of energy or continue to be popular She said she'd seen him last week and he
ecome too friendly with you rumours to the
I always had thecontrary, feminism
feeling she is alive andme
was keeping well.at arm's length.
pinion on something If you ask me, I think the test should not be given in multiple choice form
ction and then in the opposite one She swayed gently back and forth to the music
hind someone's back, you do it without them
s unfair I dread to think what they say about me behind my back.
lance, it has reached a stage where it will soon be The game hung in the balance until the last minute.
other
arts an activity, or to start doing something in order We have to get the ball rolling on this project soon.
ple to do
activity theissame
that successful so that you can get the The song led many cover singers to jump on the bandwagon
lf
of tool or weapon same singing style
Workers for this company have to undertake dangerous tasks
s previously mentioned hands
She is a pretty girl. Oh, she's intelligent into the bargain!
asant from harming you Regular exercise can help keep fat at bay.
s fruit, it produces successful results Eventually her efforts bore fruit and she got the job she wanted.
eople go, far from any main roads and towns The farmhouse we stayed in was completely off the beaten track.
our own bad behaviour is behind you, it does not Those dark days are behind me now, I'm glad to say.
angry, especially by continuing to do something
now
The kids have been driving me round the bend today
elf because of the strength of emotion you are
He was beside himself with rage when I told him what I had done
ances are very good He's never very happy at the best of timeshe'll be much worse now!
to happen, to succeed or them
to be to
suitable Clothes are a safe bet as a present for a teenager.
what is the best action for take to get the
If you want to get around London fast, the Underground is your best bet.
e of the same kind Our professional service promises you a wedding without compare.
omething beyond a shadow of a doubt, you are
This is beyond a shadow of a doubt the best film I have seen this year.
f various kinds She stuffed all her bits and pieces into a bag and left.
e done everything you can, or until something is
spite difficulties and problems They were prepared to fight to the bitter end for their rights.
g of something The trial was conducted under a blanket of secrecy.
ime I can handle all these tasks in the blink of an eye.
ely angry The way they treated people makes my blood boil.
ht that makes your blood run cold frightens you
The idea of having to give a speech made my blood run cold.
That scenario completely blows my mind.
e mind, you find it very
of an opportunity exciting
by doing and unusual
or saying something
I really blew it when I turned down that job offer, didn't I?
effect on people at every level and in every area The improvement has been across the board
increasing
His wages areprofits or reducing
barely enough to losses.
keep body and soul together.
ur food,
more clothing,
people argueand somewhere
about to live
strongly over a long
Who should be the president is a bone of contention
one about something annoying they have done I've got a bone to pick with you
good/bad books, they are pleased/not pleased
again.
He's in Melanie's bad books because he arrived two hours late.
as the rules tell you This is a private deal - we don't have to do everything by the book.
in a situation The bottom line is that we need another ten thousand dollars to
complete the project.
This recovery technique breaks new ground.
hing new
mebody some bad news Come on, what happened? Break it to me gently (= in a kind way).
dthat
andisnervous) I waited for the results with bated breath
new and or excitedand
different waymakes everything
Angela's so cheerful and lively - she's
she visitsheld their breath waiting for the results of the election
Citizens
happen, often feeling anxious
ople cannot hear exactly what you are saying He muttered something under his breath
She had a bumpy ride after his father died
mely nervous and worried She is always a bundle of nerves before every important examinations
To earn enough to live on, my father used to burn the midnight oil
It's late. Let's call it a day and go home
Love is not on my cards because I only focus on study
s and important enough to influence other people California carries weight because it is the economy engine of the country
ent enough to be noticed by someone His innocent smile catched my eyes
Chances are (that) they'll be late anyway.
the waythat
youhas
feelbeen
aboutworrying
something I had a change of heart after deep consideration
mething you or making you
ebecause you think you have been treated unfairly Confiding in close friends is a great way to get things off your chest
ood as other people I had a chip on my shoulder when I didn't pass the exam to a famous
university
s among people It is time to clear the air to get rid of the division created by the
election.
After police investigated his house, he was proved to be in the clear.
not involved in doing something bad
without public knowing Nuclear schemes are set out behind closed doors
and excited they kill mercilessly and showing no "Was Helen pleased about getting that job?" "Pleased? She was
d blood
cloud
He kills nine!"
in cold blood and never gives it a thought.
opinions between two groups Now it is time to find common ground and forget the differences
meone cannot make a fair decision because they
esult I need to declare a conflict of interest here - one of the candidates for the
job is a friend
To tackle theseofproblems,
mine try to keep your head.
ulties
I lost my cool on hearing that he is the next president
Spring is around the corner! Cheer up!
g, especially
having a goodattime,
the time when the
especially sun first appears The air is fresh at the crack of dawn
by going
On my first date, my younger sister tried to
followed
I crossed us
my ex-lover's path and this is somehow embarrassing
The baby cried his eyes out when he couldnot find mommy
xtremely clear His thesis statement is crystal clear so I understand his essay quite well
of person for something I am cut out for sitting still. I love moving around
ngrily not to do something Don't you dare reading my diary!
ething that other people know about She is in the dark about the password
py He made my day with a deep kiss
She sat, not listening, but deep in thought.
 ew and difficult without help or preparation I jumped in at the deep end when I decided to participate that
competitive contest
d has
ge, existed forora skills
experience, long time
to deal with a particular
The division now goes deep between the Democratics and Republicans
your dignity, you feel that you are too important to
Graduating from a prestigious university, he finds being an officer is
beneath
The planehis dignity
landed at two o'clock on the dot.
expected time
nsibility or decision To reduce poverty is down to the government
ew Zealand She was born in Scotland, but she's been living down under for 22 years
oes down the drain, it is spoiled or wasted If the factory closes, that will be a million dollars' worth of investment
down the drainyou when you're down and out.
ey, and no opportunities Nobody loves
orse After his wife died, his health started to go downhill.
e you think it is wrong I swear a lot, but I even draw the line at saying certain words.
magined or hoped The money we raised was beyond our wildest dreams.
hing is better than anything you could imagine or
Never in my wildest dreams
uld not do something because you think it is wrong
a
Mymarathon.
father is very generous, but I
mething, especially because it is upsetting or
him forwant
I don't money!
to talk about it any more - let's drop the subject.
nimportant, esp. when compared with something
We were paid about $50,000, but that was
compared
She's a bit to what in
down some
theother
dumpscompanies
becausegot.
she failed one of her exams.
at has been saved or kept for a special purpose Regular investment of small amounts of money is an excellent way of
end of the world, it will not cause very serious
I'm reallyahoping
building nest egg . but it wo
to win,
quality or feature don't.
Some lucky people are endowed with both brains and beauty.
on look silly Would you stop making jokes at my expense?
r someone or something, often while you are While you are checking the animals,
e signs
r sb/sth Keepofandisease .
eye peeled for spyware programs that install themselves on
ected by others your computer.
She had to accept defeat without losing face.
ourself from smiling or laughing She tried to keep a straight face
al with a difficult situation or problem into laughter.
She left home in the face of strong opposition from her parents.
escribing how a situation seems on the On the face of it, it seems like a bargain, but I bet there are hidden
or upsets someone costs.
It was a real slap in the face
sant to sb's face, you say it to them directly, dinner with
If you've gothim.
something to say, say it to my face.
er
say before you say something that is Let's face it, we both know why I stopped working there.
to place, they happen in a satisfactory way, 1) If you plan the project well, then everything should
whenfalls
events or details
ears, that youlistens
did not
to it 2) Once I discovered thatthe
thehostages
woman was
rning on deaf no one Their appeals to release fellhis
onsister,
deaf everything
ears.
hat upsets or annoys people His jokes are funny, but sometimes he goes too far.
achieving or dealing with something These intensive courses claim to offer
s full of excitement, activity, and often success.
Parties and women - he was living life in the fast lane.
ement Getting the job finished in under a week was no mean feat.
y sitting with your feet supported above the You go home and put your feet up.
hat something will happen I'm just going to cross my fingers and hope it works.
reason why a situation is the way it is, There's something odd about him, but I can't quite put my finger on it.
ething is wrong
on at your fingertips, you can get it and use He has all the latest statistics at his fingertips.
The government has come under fire
mines.
s very dangerous and to take risks Mr Morrison ratcheted up his attack on Labor during a fiery parliamentary
or someone to start burning question time, accusing
The protesters set fire the opposition
to several of
vehicles.
something as being more important than She all too often puts others first and never stops to think of herself.
else The ceremony was over in a flash.
tion I couldn't send him away - he's my own flesh and blood.
pt a situation, rather than trying to alter or Lisa had no idea what to do now, so she resolved to do the only thing she
e what seems sensible or normal could
This isinansuch a situation:
argument go with
that seems theinflow
to fly the face of common sense.
as someone else did previously She followed in her mother's footsteps
/unsuccessful start in something business.
Preparations this year quickly got off on the wrong foot.
to stop something happening When she started borrowing my clothes without asking, I had to
accident that embarrasses or upsets Ifoot
reallydown .
put my foot in my mouth
ideas or structures from which something mother,
The two leaders haveJane
but she said laidisthe
her foundations
sister. of
s
known or what has been done before in an cooperation between their countries.
For years, astronomers have been slowly pushing back
r to
ando
activity the observable universe - looking furthertoand further a
away
anything you consider necessary The company's given me a free hand negotiate deal.in terms of
mething, especially because it is better, In some areas, modern intensive farming is
watching something introduction
We were gluedof traditional methods. watching the election results come in.
to the television
ainst the grain, you would not usually do it These days it goes against the grain
unusual
e brave and do something that is difficult or authority.
You've been putting off making that phone call for days - I think it's about
because someone has something that you time
Chadyou grasped
is heading the
off to nettle
Spain for the week, and I 'm green with envy.
bad without complaining I really don't want to go, but I guess I'll just have to grin and bear it.
understand and deal with a problem or The president has failed to come to grips with
ituation and deal with it in a determined way important
We had to social issues
grit our of our
teeth time.
and agree with their conditions because we
d being tricked or getting into a dangerous wanted the contract.
You always have to be on your guard against pickpockets.
by doing something that they are not
or
self against trouble; to relax one's vigilance He never lets his guard down because he trusts no one.
to avoid danger or difficulty Once he knew I wasn't a journalist, he
let me take a photograph of him.
r position than someone else so that you are Government troops are gradually
on control rebels.
It was the end of term and the children were
ands of someone, they hurt you or treat you hand.
I can never lay my hands on a stapler in this office.
ou do not have time to do anything else I'd love to help but I've got my hands full organizing the school play.
dealt with now They've had plenty of time to prepare, so the arrangements should be
well in hand (= almost ready).
got) to hand it to someone you mean that I mean you've got to hand it to her
successfulespecially
omething, or skilful if it is not obvious or children all used
on her own.
"I've never this program before." "Don't worry - you'll soon
thing that makes it more difficult than it hang of it ."
She always does things the hard way.
earn something the hard way, you learn from She's always hadIf it
she
unpleasant to them inwon't listen,
for me . she'll have to
nage, especially when you have financial The business is in trouble, but we are just about
above water.
ut your problems and secrets She's very understanding - you feel you can really
her.
or advice to heart, you think about it
use it upsets
omething you
very bad or great the car cost a hell of a lot of money
hard, etc. (used for emphasis) (2) used in (1) my head hurts like hell (2) like hell, he thought
scorn
job forora disagreement
period of time
ore ill or more weak (2) to be as successful Josie can hold her own in any argument
ings
nt, or in a situationholds water, it is true
explanation Her alibi just didn't hold water.
ne says rings hollow, it does not sound true
and in large numbers The new game is apparently selling like hot cakes.
t relaxed He seemed ill at ease and not his usual self.
licated facts of something I know how to use computers, but I don't really understand
tant ways outsall
For ofintents
how theyand
work.
purposes, the project is completed.
hing very much and as soon as possible He was itching to hear the results. By four o'clock I was
ccessful in doing what you want the
Thismeeting to end.
extra strong glue should do the job.
/badly I'm not going to let him repair my bike again because he
bad job of it last time.
t on a subject, people do not yet know the The jury's still out on the safety of irradiated food.
yet decidedin
something if a
it way
is good
thatorisbad
fair and shows This postcard doesn't do justice to the wonderful scenery.
ties
ntinue to work hard We need to keep her at it if she's going to pass the final exam.
g After years of being looked after by his mother, he didn't
al skills and knowledge in a particular being told to cook for himself.
ble person to have responsibility and make When it comes to dealing with my own son, I think I know best.
enough not to do something Sure, she's only six, but she's old enough to
that you do because you enjoy it and not off
He'swithout
alwaysus.
working on his car - it's a labour of love.
eive money or praise for it, or because you
ne heard anything about someone or Then he went to Boston, and that was the last I saw of him.
t time
gal andsomeone saw in
often violent him, her,toorpunish
order it
One day, after years of violent abuse from her husband, she
ou know the law will not punish that person lawSpanish
hing gets better by/in leaps and bounds, he, Her into herhasown
comehands
on (= .improved) in leaps and bounds this year.
ery quickly "Are you dissatisfied with the results?" "Not in the least."
make their own decisions about what to do He seemed to be a responsible person, so I
u can to achieve a good result, especially devices . stone unturned in his search for his natural mother.
He left no
mething
gth and breadth of a place, you go to every She travelled the length and breadth of
thing; to stop thinking about or being angry missing
You needbrother.
to let the past go and forgive those who have hurt you.
mething that happened in the past
say before you say something that is Let's face it, we both know why I stopped working there.
ne that casts/sheds/throws light on a As an economist, he was able to shed some light on the problem.
, explanation
they become for it or information
known publicly that makes
Fresh evidence has recently come to light
not allowing everything in
I'll fact
pay commit
for whatthe
youmurder.
need - within limits
I was thinking of doing a meal along the lines of
same level as something Annie and Dave.
The salaries of temporary employees ought to be
with
Almostthose
3,000 ofjobs
permanent staff.
have been lost recently, and a further 3,000 are
able way the
It line
was . quite clear to me that if I
made
out of a job.
 someone's real feelings or intentions from
te
arge, it becomes very important and often
t you can succeed
mportant idea or fact because you are
bout
thingother things
do or say
rprised, full of admiration, etc. that you
a tight feeling in your throat because you
thout things that you would like to have or throat
e quality than you would like
t changes someone or something, usually in The experience had left its mark on her.
t effect on something
will be helpful, although by doing it you
ms without intending to
ion
do because it will help you to achieve
ering someone who has died
times in the past
t something
or memory
to make what you have just said sound less a grown
moment when
y to do something by being slow to act
having something
hout thinking it is very important or having
ppointment at the fact that a situation is not The car won't start. So much for our trip to the beach.
s
seen with the naked eye, it can be seen
n instrument
er to help a particular thing succeed
e neck and neck, they are level with each
qual chance of winning.
at someone did not know before
art of a story that happens in a sudden and
r, richer, etc. than before
appear stupid or wrong, or to spoil something family.
ngs which do not involve you
ng bad that happens in an obvious way but in She stole the shoes from under the assistant's nose.
ot
hatnotice
someoneor cannot prevent is extremely
or something
elpful, etc.:
Reading between the lines, I'd say he isn't happy with the situation.
The issue of pay will loom large at this year's conference.
Don't lose heart, there'll be plenty more chances for promotion.
I'm worried that we're losing sight of our original objectives.
I wouldn't lose any sleep over what happened.
It was unlike him to be at a loss for words.
Mary was lost for words when she was awarded the prize.
It was quite a moving speech - it almost
We didn't. have cupboards so we made do with boxes.
Daniel didn't work here for very long, but he definitely
on the
And place.
if you miss the bus, well, it's not
I know he means well, but he just gets in the way.
"May I borrow this book?" "By all means."
I didn't particularly like the job - it was just a means to an end.
A service was held in memory of those who had died in the fighting.
Paul has a lot on his mind at the moment.
In my mind's eye, she is still a little girl of six, although she's actually
He's verywoman.
untidy about the house; mind you, I'm not much better.
The minute I saw him, I knew something was wrong.
There were tickets available last week, but he
waiting till today to try to buy some.
He says he's been investigating my complaint, but I feel he's just
through
We need tothe
getmotions.
a move on if we're going to catch that train.
The police found traces of blood on his jacket that were invisible to the
naked eye. has been spilled in the name of religion.
Much blood
The newspaper article touched a raw nerve
closure of the
"I hear you andlocal
Philschool.
are going to Boston for the weekend." "Really?
That's news
A car came to me."
speeding around the corner, and
was
Smalllying on thelike
investors ground.
myself are probably
over their financial affairs to professional
He seemed none too happy/pleased advisers.
at the prospect of meeting the
His repeated lack of promotion makes nonsense of
you work
Youre hardsticking
always you'll be successful.
your nose into my business.
He's nothing if not charming.
 ess or achieve anything I'm trying to persuade her to come, but I'm getting nowhere.
something against (all) the odds/against all Against all the odds, he recovered.
eve it although there were a lot of problems Her version of events was at odds with
nd special police report.
He's one of a kind, he really is
much, or to be too excited or eager about I don't think there'll be more than six people eating, so I wouldn't
leasant to someone because they have done overboard
I'll get my ownwithback
the food.
on her one day.
nt to you
mething, especially a feature that cannot be Being recognized in the street is part and parcel of being a celebrity.
I spent the better part of a day cleaning that kitchen!
by someone This was a misjudgment on the part of the government.
f problems in a period of your life Andy's going through a rough patch
he way for/to something else, it makes the wants a divorce.
Scientists hope that data from the probe will
d result of something you have done detailed exploration of Mars.
If you abuse your body now, you'll pay the price when you're older.
atisfactory situation The fire was a blow, but we were determined to
and get
It's all the business
right, don't sayback on its-feet.
any more I get the picture.
s to pieces, that person becomes unable to She just went (all) to pieces during finals.
trol that
one theirthey
emotions because
are less of something
important than they When he tried to take charge, she soon put him in his place.
usic by remembering the notes He did not need sheet music. He could play the piece by ear.
l with a situation as it develops, rather than We can't make a decision yet. Let's just play it by ear.
meonemade earlier
plans Don't play games with me!
e brave enough to do something, although I'd love to do a parachute jump, but I can't
r worried
o about itespecially after thinking
do something, courage .
They're finally taking the plunge and getting married.
me
ne prefers not to talk about because it Don't ask him about the job search - it's a bit of a sore point.
rg embarrassed
very important or suitable for the subject Her comments on my work were very apt and to the point.
My sister and I are poles apart in personality.
nd therefore valuable Free time is at a premium for working parents.
ct on other people or on a situation The new police chief has really made his presence felt.
d by someone or something bad Small children are prey to all sorts of fears.
g at any price, you are willing to do anything He wanted success at any price.
ething although it will make you feel He was forced to swallow his pride
amed
g something job back.
We're still in the process of decorating the house.
ething, and you do something else in the I stood up to say hello and spilled my drink in the process.
thing happens as a result
her people in a group of doing the first The others had complained that Sarah wasn't pulling her weight.
fluence you have over important people in I may be able to pull a few strings if you need the document urgently.
ng
th or
thetomost
helprecent
someone
changes or The situation changes daily, so you need to
done if push comes to shove, it can be done pulseIf push . comes to shove, we can always sell the car.
mes so bad that you have to do it
on the spot, you cause them embarrassment Mira rather put the boss on the spot
g them at that moment to effects
answerare
a difficult
not yet going to give us a pay
whose abilities, powers, or The third candidate forrise.
the seat is a relatively unknown quantity.
annot possibly happen A trip to New Zealand is out of the question this year.
omething you say to show that you are I don't think they liked my idea.
ng more
as it is exactly enthusiastic about it.
At this rate , we won't be home until midnight.
od as a result of your own actions We sold them most of their modern weapons and now we are reaping the
bitter harvest.
 a period of time so that you feel energetic
ecome a disaster, success, etc.
cesses that seem unnecessary and delay
ccount are in the red, you owe money to the
rom something
ndition
n or thing that might be able to help you,
rson or possibility has failed
the same way that you came
and bright
She took a trip to the South of France to recharge her batteries.
All those children unsupervised sounds to me like
disaster.
It's a wonderful experience but it's far removed from reality.
The house is in very good repair.
You have to help me - you're my last resort.
She walked straight past her office and then had to retrace her steps.
No, I'm sorry, that description doesn't ring any bells with me.
Jim's rose garden is a riot of colour.

ble condition for something to happen The company is ripe for takeover.
International support has given rise to a new optimism in the company.
you do or say something that will upset Don't rock the boat until the negotiations are finished.
lems. When I was expelled from school, my parents went through the roof.
She gave him enough money to get a roof over his head.
do a job or activity Before you start the business, get to know the ropes of the market.
ng which people are clapping The singer got a big round of applause.
omething Inflation is running ideally at 2% per year.
child, runs wild, that person behaves as they Don't be too hard on him - he may run wild.
gning
controlled
in orderby
toanyone.
escape from somewhere Martin makes a run for it, afraid his father will give him a beating.
what you do or how you do it for a very long The European Committee was stuck in a rut
interesting
pleasant any longer
situation as other people direction.
She's always complaining that she doesn't have enough money, but
omething you are about to say is also true, we 're all in
Popularity thenot
need same boat. with the destruction of intellectual values
be equated
s is
as...what has just been said by be
the
and,
It would ansame token
enormous , accessibility
amount of work, need notnothing
to say threaten traditional
of the cost.
s behind the scenes, it happens without A lot of hard work has been going on behind the scenes.
g about it, especially when something else is

ble standard Your last essay wasn't up to scratch/didn't come up to scratch.

My sister didnt see eye to eye with me
y parents about
People who thefinish
don't problem.
a job really make me see red.
d have good judgment We talked to her for an hour, but we couldn't make her see sense.
more clear or certain form Globally, ambitious efforts to develop wind power are beginning to t
than enough of something bad shape .
She's had her fair share of tragedies in her life.
ed or excited I tried to smile, suppressing the shiver that was running down my
g something before it is finished spine .
Their conversation was cut short by the arrival of more guests.
ng to listen to your problems and give you I wish you'd been here when my mother died and I needed
lfeeling
support, and
very encouragement
upset, worried, angry to cry(feeling)
on.
1) I'm sick to my stomach
main job; 2) secretly; 3) (US) (of food in a 2) Hemakes
1) It me
makes a sick
little to my
money onstomach
the side
g, another
n plate,
especially or on the
an amount of side of the
money, plate to
in order spare time.
We have put some money on one side for next year's summer holiday.
mportant idea or fact because you are Participants must be able to put in their best efforts without
bout other things sight of the collaborative and supportive process.
 sth Jenny has set her sights on winning the competition.
or ideas I still have a few ideas up my sleeve
some
I forgotreaders and please
I'd arranged others.
to meet Richard last night - it completely
k that you have problems dealing with it all my mind .
I'm absolutely snowed under with work at the moment.
e are limits to something There are only so many hours in your working day - you cannot
admired possibly do all theanwork.
Imagine winning Olympic medal - now that would be something.
erson or thing in a way that is partly true but I have a biology question for you - I hear you're
actly expert.
He cursed himself for not having foreseen that
soon do something or would sooner do might
"Wouldhappen.
you like to go out for dinner?" "I
d prefer to do it rather than something else feeling very
aking terms with someone, you refuse to They had an well."
argument last night and now they're
use you
what are
you angry
are with
saying is them
not to be understood terms (with each other).
In that relationship it's very much Lorna who wears the trousers,
k about something very directly speak
He's (= Lorna
certainly notmakes
afraid all the important
to speak decisions).
his mind .
volumes, it makes an opinion, characteristic, She said very little but her face spoke volumes.
ar
forwithout
itself, itthe use ofand
words
is clear needs no further The school's excellent record speaks for itself.
very successful or very well known Jodie Foster made quite a splash in the film "Taxi Driver".
someone/ something very much She'd always had a soft spot for her younger nephew.
You can be sacked on the spot for stealing.
your mind Say the word "Australia" and a vision of beaches and blue seas
ecision, action, etc. is sudden and done immediately springs
We just jumped in a carto
onmind
the spur of the moment
valuable is at stake, it is in a situation where the seaside.of lives will be at stake
Thousands
g is obvious or clear from the facts the
If 20city soon.of the earth's population has 80 percent of its resources,
percent
pinion or situation is then
I knowit stands
where to reason
I stand onthat
this issue - I'm against the war.
ed backwards, or to continue in your beliefs Clare stood her ground in the meeting and refused to be intimidated
e place or position even whenput
Just stay Michael
with got
the angry.
suitcases, while I go and find a cab.
ng that helps you to get rid of strong feelings He lifts weights after work to let off steam.
something that seems unpleasant, They warned their children to steer clear of drugs.
o cause problems
on carefully After the storm homeowners came out to take stock of the damage.
e The apartment is just a stone's throw from the sea.
oing or saying something, you decide not to I stopped short of telling him the brutal truth.
you
muchalmost
more do.
advanced than another thing or The latest sales figures show that we
an agreement has strings attached, it competition.
Most of these so-called special offers come with strings attached.
ands or limits:
and be successful or work well, after a long After fifty years, the town's theatre is still going strong.
He said he'd left the book on the desk, and sure enough, there it was.
uble-edged acts in two ways, often with one The government's programme to grow cash crops for export is
sitive
what effect
you say is likely to be true, although it double-edged sword
You'll be staying the night,because it ?has created a local food shortage.
I take it
suggestions from another person and give In every relationship there must be some give and take.
ng as it happens, without planning for it I'd rather not plan my day, I'd like to
way that will not upset or anger people whatever
Most of myIuncle's
feel is jokes
right.are not in good taste.
ce that teaches you a lesson improves your Having my car stolen really taught me a lesson
gmaking you experience
bad happens after youthe bad effects
warned someone of unlocked again.
-and-go, it is uncertain The doctor says that it's touch-and-go whether Mary will be okay.
an I'll tell you what - we'll split the money between us.
a sad situation, often the death of someone I think he's still coming to terms with the death of his wife
dly, etc. relationship with someone Are you on good terms with your boss?
r patience left By six o'clock after a busy day I'm at the end of my tether.
numbers Distress calls were pouring in, thick and fast, from all over the area.
y with someone through thick and thin, you She has stuck with me through thick and thin.
ay withcompletely
y and them, even if there are problems or The museum's alarm went off, but by the time police arrived the culprits
without worrying about what anyone else had disappeared
Though we did walk into thin
together asair
a group, everyone was virtually
are very surprised something has happened their own
So, Alex thing
is going . with Hannah. Who would have thought it?
out
"What were you talking about?" "Oh, this and that."
ough a crowded space, changing direction in She quickly threaded her way through
eand
or things
important time or development place.
For a city that is on the threshold of
y reckless manner Monayee's
And once inisyour
a gentle reminder
life you'll that
get at theone
least cityopportunity,
should not lose
one its soul in the
challenge to
throw caution
After having to the wind
a five-year romantic relationship, Mary and Alex
uation decided to tie the knot
The G40 faction in Zanu .PF is
than you did before because you have less to survive,
I have amid reports
to tighten my belt that more
this of its
month members
because haveall
I spent been
money
ult or unpleasant for sb on those books.
My mother gave me a very hard time
nd not want to be involved with them me)
I haveabout staying
no time forout late. who are always complaining and
people
me passes surprisingly quickly talking.
Times flies when you're having fun, so appreciate it.
art of a problem, the total size of which is The princial's influence could
u on your toes forces you to continue could
Hourlybe "improperand
productive relationships
constructive between the teacher
arguments with myMelanie
staff and
ention on
ffering andsb/sth
energy to what you are doing me on my toes .
India-Pakistan hostility on borders and separatists' agitation is
etc. a building from top to bottom, you taking a heavy toll
They cleaned the house from on civilians
topand students. in Jammu and
to bottom
parts of it
He was on top of the world
suitable, or demanding too much attention race.
We all found her idea about ruling the world way over the top.
n an uncontrolled
ually way
good or bad to a situation that is Topping it all off, they found themselves locked out of their own
choose between sth and sth house.
She is torn between her loyalty and her desire to tell the truth.
We are left with many unanswered questions, but one thing is for
it has the necessary or wanted effect sure: we haven't
"This sauce comeflavour"
needs more this far- to
"I know, some lemon juice should
the trick.
We don't think that Alex would
th because you feel that it is not good whatever
Mary turned he was
her accused
nose upof. at
a better way think it had enough status.
Apparenly he's turned over a new leaf
ctively more.
Since they spoke only Swahili, we used signs and gestures to
p sb to do or achieve sth ourselves understood
You should keep . - it will come in handy/useful one day.
that paint
in order to get sth good. "Should I ask my boss for a promotion?" - "
ge of sth or come to the verge of sth, you're nothing gained
Her husband's ."
violent and abusive behavior drove her
sted on sb, you mean that its quality is too high for
ncing it verge of despair.
ll not understand its true value I'm not going to serve that good coffee to Christine - it would
ngs to a particular person that have no on them.
I've told him many times that he's heading for troubles - he just
t other people notice you, often in a way that
uble doesn't listen,
It's probably it's
not a like
goodwater
idea tooff a duck's back
to think in a similar way and to understand each a newworsens
What job. the problem is that Christine and Mary
Isame
like towavelength
get my homework aboutout
howof
to the
address
wayit.
can enjoy the weekend.
o sth, esp. for sb else The Smiths really went out of their way
a
ears thin, you become less and less patient welcome.
place It'sI've
1) getting
been dark - we
warning should
you make
several timesour way
about home
being late soon . patience
and my
ke wears thin, it becomes boring or annoying is wearing thin.
I've been (feeling) under the weather
e reasons for a particular situation, doctor.
I'm very tired, what with travelling all day yesterday and having a
ifficult situation disturbed night.a wink because of the incessant noise from Mary's.
I didn't sleep
at what sb said His wife, Mary, was 25 years old his junior, and,
guiding
I listenedlight".
attentively to what she said and repeated it
h happier or healthier to
Wemy mum.
had a week away in the sun and it's
of good .
What a restaurant - the food was out of this world!
nt might have happened We hoped that our parents would be found safe and sound, but secretly
ction that you will get an advantage from It's feared
we the worst.
worth your while taking travel insurance before you travel.
someone might not understand what you say,Don't
o get me wrong - I would love to come but I'm too busy next
week.
 no account make personal phone calls from the
be only one example in this field, but you can add
or usage notes if you wish, using Insert-->Note;
amples and/or usage notes will have the black
opI wish she'd)get her act together.
corner

insult to injury, forgot my keys.

o lose another member of staff.
n again, I'm very fond of my home.

m last week and he was alive and kicking. Despite

, she
feminism is alive andme
was keeping well.at arm's length.
nk the test should not be given in multiple choice form
ck and forth to the music
ey say about me behind my back.
e balance until the last minute.
ball rolling on this project soon.
er singers to jump on the bandwagon with the
ny have to undertake dangerous tasks with their bare
she's intelligent into the bargain!
elp keep fat at bay.
ore fruit and she got the job she wanted.
ed in was completely off the beaten track.
behind me now, I'm glad to say.
iving me round the bend today
self with rage when I told him what I had done
at the best of timeshe'll be much worse now!
et as a present for a teenager.
d London fast, the Underground is your best bet.
e promises you a wedding without compare.
hadow of a doubt the best film I have seen this year.
s and pieces into a bag and left.
fight to the bitter end for their rights.
d under a blanket of secrecy.
asks in the blink of an eye.
eople makes my blood boil.
ve a speech made my blood run cold.
ly blows my mind.
I turned down that job offer, didn't I?
s been across the board, with all divisions either
reducing
enough tolosses.
keep body and soul together.
resident is a bone of contention
o pick with you - you've been using my shaver
bad books because he arrived two hours late.
- we don't have to do everything by the book.
s that we need another ten thousand dollars to
.
que breaks new ground.
ened? Break it to me gently (= in a kind way).
ts with bated breath
and lively - she's like a breath of fresh air when
eath waiting for the results of the election
ing under his breath
e after his father died
le of nerves before every important examinations
e on, my father used to burn the midnight oil
a day and go home
rds because I only focus on study
ght because it is the economy engine of the country
atched my eyes
) they'll be late anyway.
art after deep consideration
ends is a great way to get things off your chest
houlder when I didn't pass the exam to a famous
he air to get rid of the division created by the
ated his house, he was proved to be in the clear.
set out behind closed doors
about getting that job?" "Pleased? She was on
od and never gives it a thought.
common ground and forget the differences
onflict of interest here - one of the candidates for the
e
ems, try to keep your head.
ring that he is the next president
corner! Cheer up!
e crack of dawn
younger sister tried to cramp my style and
r's path and this is somehow embarrassing
yes out when he couldnot find mommy
is crystal clear so I understand his essay quite well
g still. I love moving around
ng my diary!
out the password
h a deep kiss
g, but deep in thought.
ep end when I decided to participate that

es deep between the Democratics and Republicans

estigious university, he finds being an officer is
two o'clock on the dot.
down to the government
land, but she's been living down under for 22 years
that will be a million dollars' worth of investment
hen you're down and out.
is health started to go downhill.
ven draw the line at saying certain words.
d was beyond our wildest dreams.
est dreams did I imagine that one day I would run
nerous, but I wouldn't dream of actually asking
bout it any more - let's drop the subject.
$50,000, but that was a drop in the bucket
me
theother companies
dumps because got.
she failed one of her exams.
of small amounts of money is an excellent way of
g. but it won't be the end of the world if I
win,
re endowed with both brains and beauty.
ng jokes at my expense?
ng the animals, keep your eyes open for any
led for spyware programs that install themselves on
efeat without losing face.
straight face but, unable to contain herself, burst
e face of strong opposition from her parents.
it seems like a bargain, but I bet there are hidden
n the face for him when she refused to go out to
ing to say, say it to my face.
oth know why I stopped working there.
ject well, then everything should fall into place.
thatthe
ase thehostages
woman was
fellhis
onsister,
deafeverything
ears. fell into
but sometimes he goes too far.
ses claim to offer a fast track to wealth and
he was living life in the fast lane.
ed in under a week was no mean feat.
t your feet up.
ss my fingers and hope it works.
dd about him, but I can't quite put my finger on it.
statistics at his fingertips.
come under fire for its decision to close the
 d up his attack on Labor during a fiery parliamentary
fire the
ing opposition
to several of playing with fire over the
vehicles.
ts others first and never stops to think of herself.
ver in a flash.
way - he's my own flesh and blood.
at to do now, so she resolved to do the only thing she
that go with
tion: seems theinflow
to fly the. face of common sense.
er mother's footsteps, starting her own
ar quickly got off on the wrong foot.
rrowing my clothes without asking, I had to put my
t in my mouth I asked her if Jane was her
eJane
laidisthe
her foundations
sister. of a new era in
n their countries.
ers have been slowly pushing back the frontiers of
nrse
me- alooking furtherto
free hand and further a
negotiate away
deal.in terms of
rn intensive farming is giving way to the re-
ional methods. watching the election results come in.
the television
against the grain to show too much respect for
off making that phone call for days - I think it's about
the nettle
o Spain ! week, and I 'm green with envy.
for the
go, but I guess I'll just have to grin and bear it.
led to come to grips with the two most
es of our
teeth time.
and agree with their conditions because we
be on your guard against pickpockets.

guard down because he trusts no one.

n't a journalist, he dropped his guard and even
raph of him.
are gradually gaining the upper hand over the
m and the children were getting a little out of

hands on a stapler in this office.

ve got my hands full organizing the school play.
f time to prepare, so the arrangements should be
st ready).

to hand it to her, she's brought up those three

wn.
program before." "Don't worry - you'll soon get the
ngs the hard way.
he
inwon't . she'll have to learn/find out the
listen,
for me
ouble, but we are just about keeping our heads

nding - you feel you can really open your heart to

of a lot of money
ke hell (2) like hell, he thought

own in any argument

hold water.

parently selling like hot cakes.

ase and not his usual self.
mputers, but I don't really understand the ins and
ork.
d purposes, the project is completed.
hear the results. By four o'clock I was itching for
e should do the job.
im repair my bike again because he made a really
me.
ut on the safety of irradiated food.
t do justice to the wonderful scenery.
er at it if she's going to pass the final exam.
ooked after by his mother, he didn't take kindly to
r himself.
aling with my own son, I think I know best.
but she's old enough to know better than to run
on his car - it's a labour of love.

ton, and that was the last I saw of him.

of violent abuse from her husband, she took the
mehands
on (= .improved) in leaps and bounds this year.
with the results?" "Not in the least."
esponsible person, so I left him to his own
unturned in his search for his natural mother.
length and breadth of Ireland looking for her
past go and forgive those who have hurt you.
know why I stopped working there.
was able to shed some light on the problem.
ecently come to light that suggests that he didn't
urder.- within limits
need
ng a meal along the lines of that dinner I did for
orary employees ought to be brought into line
anent
ave staff.
been lost recently, and a further 3,000 are on
ear to me that if I stepped out of line again I'd be
 n the lines, I'd say he isn't happy with the situation.
loom large at this year's conference.
here'll be plenty more chances for promotion.
e losing sight of our original objectives.
sleep over what happened.
be at a loss for words.
words when she was awarded the prize.
g speech - it almost brought a lump to my
oards so we made do with boxes.
left its mark on her.
ere for very long, but he definitely made his mark
bus, well, it's not a matter of life and death.
well, but he just gets in the way.
ook?" "By all means."
ke the job - it was just a means to an end.
n memory of those who had died in the fighting.

his mind at the moment.

, she is still a little girl of six, although she's actually
ut the house; mind you, I'm not much better.

m, I knew something was wrong.

vailable last week, but he missed the boat by
ry to buy some.
vestigating my complaint, but I feel he's just going
ions. on if we're going to catch that train.
move
So much for our trip to the beach.
ces of blood on his jacket that were invisible to the
n spilled in the name of religion.

e touched a raw nerve - people still resent the

chool.
are going to Boston for the weekend." "Really?
me."
around the corner, and the next thing I knew I
und.
myself are probably none the richer after handing
ffairs
oo to professional
happy/pleased advisers.
at the prospect of meeting the
promotion makes nonsense of the theory that if
be successful.
ng your nose into my business.
from under the assistant's nose.
t charming.
 e her to come, but I'm getting nowhere.
dds, he recovered.
s was at odds with (= very different from) the
d, he really is
be more than six people eating, so I wouldn't go
he food.
ack on her one day.
the street is part and parcel of being a celebrity.
part of a day cleaning that kitchen!
ent on the part of the government.
ugh a rough patch at the moment - his wife
data from the probe will pave the way for a more
of Mars.
dy now, you'll pay the price when you're older.
but we were determined to pick up the pieces
yback on its-feet.
any more I get the picture.
to pieces during finals.
e charge, she soon put him in his place.
et music. He could play the piece by ear.
ision yet. Let's just play it by ear.
with me!
chute jump, but I can't pluck up the/enough
ng the plunge and getting married.
the job search - it's a bit of a sore point.
y work were very apt and to the point.
oles apart in personality.
emium for working parents.
has really made his presence felt.
prey to all sorts of fears.
at any price.
allow his pride and ask if he could have his old
ocess of decorating the house.
o and spilled my drink in the process.
plained that Sarah wasn't pulling her weight.
l a few strings if you need the document urgently.
s daily, so you need to keep your finger on the
shove, we can always sell the car.
boss on the spot by asking him when he was
orrise.
y the seat is a relatively unknown quantity.
d is out of the question this year.
ed my idea. At any rate, they weren't very
on't be home until midnight.
of their modern weapons and now we are reaping the
e South of France to recharge her batteries.
supervised sounds to me like a recipe for

rience but it's far removed from reality.

y good repair.
- you're my last resort.
past her office and then had to retrace her steps.
escription doesn't ring any bells with me.
a riot of colour.

e for takeover.
has given rise to a new optimism in the company.
at until the negotiations are finished.
from school, my parents went through the roof.
h money to get a roof over his head.
business, get to know the ropes of the market.
round of applause.
g ideally at 2% per year.
on him - he may run wild.
n for it, afraid his father will give him a beating.
ittee was stuck in a rut and was losing its
ining that she doesn't have enough money, but
meequated
be boat. with the destruction of intellectual values
token
mous , accessibility
amount of work, need notnothing
to say threaten traditional
of the cost.
s been going on behind the scenes.

't up to scratch/didn't come up to scratch.

eye to eye with me about the how to tell my
oblem.
sh a job really make me see red.
an hour, but we couldn't make her see sense.
fforts to develop wind power are beginning to take
share of tragedies in her life.
ressing the shiver that was running down my
as cut short by the arrival of more guests.
re when my mother died and I needed a shoulder
to my stomach.
k to my
money onstomach
the side when I remember
by cleaning my in
windows car
his
money on one side for next year's summer holiday.
able to put in their best efforts without losing
orative and supportive process.
sights on winning the competition.
eas up my sleeve, which will inevitably disappoint
ease others.
to meet Richard last night - it completely slipped
wed under with work at the moment.
many hours in your working day - you cannot
ork.
Olympic medal - now that would be something.
stion for you - I hear you're something of an
r not having foreseen that something like this
o out for dinner?" "I'd just as soon stay in - I'm not
nt last night and now they're not on speaking
ther).
's very much Lorna who wears the trousers, so to
kes
aid all the important
to speak decisions).
his mind .
ut her face spoke volumes.
nt record speaks for itself.
quite a splash in the film "Taxi Driver".
soft spot for her younger nephew.
n the spot for stealing.
alia" and a vision of beaches and blue seas
s to
car onmind
the .spur of the moment and drove to
ill be at stake if emergency aid does not arrive in
earth's population has 80 percent of its resources,
reason
tand onthat 80 percent
this issue of the population
- I'm against the war. has only
round in the meeting and refused to be intimidated
got
he angry.
suitcases, while I go and find a cab.
work to let off steam.
hildren to steer clear of drugs.
eowners came out to take stock of the damage.
t a stone's throw from the sea.
f telling him the brutal truth.
es show that we're streets ahead of the
ed special offers come with strings attached.
town's theatre is still going strong.
book on the desk, and sure enough, there it was.
ogramme to grow cash crops for export is a
word
night,because it ?has created a local food shortage.
I take it
there must be some give and take.
my day, I'd like to take life as it comes and do
ight.
okes are not in good taste.
n really taught me a lesson - I'll never leave it

it's touch-and-go whether Mary will be okay.

 we'll split the money between us.
ing to terms with the death of his wife
erms with your boss?
busy day I'm at the end of my tether.
ouring in, thick and fast, from all over the area.
me through thick and thin.
went off, but by the time police arrived the culprits
into thin
together asair .
a group, everyone was virtually doing
with Hannah. Who would have thought it?
ng about?" "Oh, this and that."
ed her way through the crowded market
the threshold of a major expansion, Mr.
eyou'll
reminder that
get at theone
least cityopportunity,
should not lose
one its soul in the
challenge to
the wind , take the big risk, break free
year romantic relationship, Mary and Alex and follow
knot.PF is now in a tight corner and battling
Zanu
ports
my that
belt more
this of its
month members
because haveall
I spent been
money
me a very hard time (= was very angry with
rout late. who are always complaining and
people
you're having fun, so appreciate it.
ence could be the tip of the icerbeg of what
randrelationships
constructive between the teacher
arguments with myMelanie and
staff keep
ility on borders and separatists' agitation is
oll
house on from
civilians
topand students. in Jammu and
to bottom
the world when he came first in the five-kilometre
ea about ruling the world way over the top.
hey found themselves locked out of their own
en her loyalty and her desire to tell the truth.
many unanswered questions, but one thing is for
ome this far- to
ore flavour" throwsome
"I know, in the
lemontowel," said do
juice should
Alex would turn his back on his brother,
nose upof.
ccused at the job offer because she didn't
hed status.
over a new leaf and he's not smoking any
nly Swahili, we used signs and gestures to make
stood
at paint. - it will come in handy/useful one day.
s for a promotion?" - "Nothing ventured,
ent and abusive behavior drove her to the
e that good coffee to Christine - it would be wasted
times that he's heading for troubles - he just
goodwater
ike idea tooff a duck's
make wavesback .
in your first week in
oblem is that Christine and Mary aren't on the
h aboutout
mework howof to the
address
wayit.on a Friday night so that I
nd.
went out of their way to make us feel
we should
you make
several timesour way
about home
being late soon . patience
and my
) under the weather for days; I should see a
at with travelling all day yesterday and having a
ink because of the incessant noise from Mary's.
s 25 years old his junior, and, in his words, "my
to what she said and repeated it word-for-word
ay in the sun and it's done us both the world
- the food was out of this world!
arents would be found safe and sound, but secretly
rst. taking travel insurance before you travel.
hile
ong - I would love to come but I'm too busy next
on no account
get sb's act together
to add insult to injury
cannot afford / can ill afford [formal]
then/there again
raise the alarm
be alive and well/kicking
keep sb at arm's length
if you ask me
back and forth
behind sb's back
in the balance
start/set/get the ball rolling
jump/climb/get on the bandwagon
with your bare hands
in(to) the bargain
hold/keep sb/sth at bay
bear fruit [formal]
off the beaten track/path
be behind sb
drive/send sb round the bend
be beside yourself
at the best of times
be a safe bet
be your best bet (informal)
beyond compare (literary)
beyond a shadow of a doubt
bits and pieces/bobs (informal)
to the bitter end
a blanket of sth (figurative)
in the blink of an eye
make sb's blood boil
make sb's blood run cold
blow sb's mind
blow it / blow your chance
across the board
keep body and soul together
a bone of contention
have a bone to pick with sb
if something must on no account/not on any account be done, i
or for any
to start to reason (the
organize definitions
yourself so thatshould
you do be obtained
things from
in an effective
said when you feel that someone has made a bad situation wor
upset you
if you can ill afford to do something, it will cause problems for you if you
used when you have had a new thought that is different from or the oppo
to make people understand the danger of something
to continue to live or exist and be full of energy or continue to be popula
not allow someone to become too friendly with you
said when giving your opinion on something
moving first in one direction and then in the opposite one
If you do something behind someone's back, you do it without them kno
If a situation is in the balance, it has reached a stage where it will soon b
to do something that starts an activity, or to start doing something in orde
the sameinvolved in an activity that is successful so that you can get the
become
without using any type of tool or weapon
in addition to other facts previously mentioned
to prevent sb/sth unpleasant from harming you
if sth that sb does bears fruit, it produces successful results
In a place where few people go, far from any main roads and towns
If a bad experience or your own bad behaviour is behind you, it does no
to make someone very angry, especially by continuing to do something a
unable to control yourself because of the strength of emotion you are fe
even when the circumstances are very good
something that is likely to happen, to succeed or to be suitable
used to tell somebody what is the best action for them to take to get the
better than anything else of the same kind
if you know or believe something beyond a shadow of a doubt, you are c
small objects or items of various kinds
continuing until you have done everything you can, or until something is
difficulties and problems
a thick layer or covering of something
very quickly; in a short time
make someone extremely angry
a sound, sight, or thought that makes your blood run cold frightens you v
If something blows your mind, you find it very exciting and unusual
to fail to take advantage of an opportunity by doing or saying something
happening or having an effect on people at every level and in every area
to be able to pay for your food, clothing, and somewhere to live
something that two or more people argue about strongly over a long per
to want to talk to someone about something annoying they have done
be in sb's good/bad books If you are in someone's good/bad books, they are pleased/not pleased w
go by the book / do sth by the book to do something exactly as the rules tell you
the bottom line the most important fact in a situation
break fresh/new ground to do or discover something new
break it/the news to sb to be the first to tell somebody some bad news
with bated breath in an anxious (= worried and nervous) or excited way
a breath of fresh air someone or something that is new and different and makes everything s
hold your breath to wait for something to happen, often feeling anxious
under your breath quietly so that other people cannot hear exactly what you are saying
(have) a rough/bumpy ride [INFORMAL] have a difficult time
a bundle of nerves someone who is extremely nervous and worried
burn the midnight oil work late at night
call it a day stop the work sb doing
be on/in the cards likely to happen
carry weight to be considered serious and important enough to influence other peopl
catch sb's eye to be attractive or different enough to be noticed by someone
(the) chances are it is likely
a change of heart change your opinion or the way you feel about something
get sth off your chest tell someone about something that has been worrying you treated
or making you
seem angry all the time because you think you have been unfair
have a chip on your shoulder other people
clear the air remove the bad feelings among people
be in the clear not guilty of a crime, or not involved in doing something bad
behind closed doors do something secretly without public knowing
be on cloud nine to be extremely happy and excited
in cold blood If someone kills in cold blood they kill mercilessly and showing no e
find common ground find a shared beliefs or opinions between two groups
a conflict of interest a situation in which someone cannot make a fair decision because they
keep a cool head / keep your head stay calm despite difficulties
lose your cool become very angry
(just) around the corner coming very soon
at the crack of dawn very early in the morning, especially at the time when the sun first appea
cramp sb's style [humorous] prevent someone from having a good time, especially by going somewh
cross sb's path / cross paths with sb meet sb by chance
cry your eyes out cry a lot
crystal clear easy to understand or extremely clear
not be cut out for sth to not be the right type of person for something
don't you dare [INFORMAL] used to tell someone angrily not to do something
be in the dark to not know about something that other people know about
make sb's day to make someone happy
deep in thought thinking very hard
jump in at the deep end / throw sb in at the start doing something new and difficult without help or preparation
deep end
run/go deep be strong or serious and has existed for a long time
out of your depth not having the knowledge, experience, or skills to deal with a particular s
q If something is beneath your dignity, you feel that you are too important
on the dot exactly at the stated or expected time
be down to sb [INFORMAL] to be someone's responsibility or decision
down under (in or to) Australia or New Zealand
down the drain/gurgler If work or money is or goes down the drain, it is spoiled or wasted
down and out having no luck, no money, and no opportunities
go downhill to gradually become worse
draw the line (at sth) to never do sth because you think it is wrong
beyond your wildest dreams much better than you imagined or hoped
not/never in your wildest dreams used to say that something is better than anything you could imagine or
wouldn't dream of sth/doing sth used to say that you would not do something because you think it is wro
drop it/the subject to stop talking about something, especially because it is upsetting or ann
a drop in the ocean/bucket something small and unimportant, esp. when compared with something
(down) in the dumps/mouth unhappy
a nest egg an amount of money that has been saved or kept for a special purpose
not be the end of the world [informal] if something is not the end of the world, it will not cause very serious pro
be endowed with sth to have a particular quality or feature
at the expense of sb / at sb's expense making another person look silly
keep your eyes open (for sb/sth) to watch carefully for someone or something, often while you a
keep your eyes peeled/skinned (for sb/sth) to watch carefully for sb/sth
lose face to become less respected by others
keep a straight face to manage to stop yourself from smiling or laughing
in the face of sth despite having to deal with a difficult situation or problem
on the face of it used when you are describing how a situation seems on the sur
a slap in the face an action that insults or upsets someone
to sb's face if you say sth unpleasant to sb's face, you say it to them directl
let's face it something that you say before you say something that is unple
fall into place 1) when things fall into place, they happen in a satisfactory way
fall on deaf ears events or details
if a suggestion orthat you did
warning fallsnot
on understand before
deaf ears, no fall intotopla
one listens it
go too far [informal] to behave in a way that upsets or annoys people
a fast track (to sth) a very quick way of achieving or dealing with something
(life in) the fast lane a way of living that is full of excitement, activity, and often dang
be no mean feat [informal] to be a great achievement
put your feet up to relax, especially by sitting with your feet supported above th
cross your fingers / keep your fingers crossed to hope very much that something will happen
put your finger on sth to discover the exact reason why a situation is the way it is, esp
at your fingertips if you have information at your fingertips, you can get it and us
come under fire to be criticized
play with fire to act in a way that is very dangerous and to take risks
set fire to sth/sb to cause something or someone to start burning
put sb/sth first to treat someone or something as being more important than a
in a flash / quick as a flash [informal] quickly or suddenly
be sb's own flesh and blood to be someone's relation
go with the flow be relaxed and accept a situation, rather than trying to alter or
fly in the face of sth [informal] to completely oppose what seems sensible or normal
follow in sb's footsteps to do the same thing as someone else did previously
start / get off on the right/wrong foot to make a successful/unsuccessful start in something
put your foot down to use your authority to stop something happening
put your foot in it / put your foot in your mouth to say something by accident that embarrasses or upsets some
lay the basis/foundations of/for to produce the basic ideas or structures from which something m
the frontiers of sth the limits of what is known or what has been done before in an
a free hand the right or authority to do anything you consider necessary
give way (to sth) / make way for sth to be replaced by something, especially because it is better, ch
be glued to sth [informal] to be unable to stop watching something
go against the grain if something goes against the grain, you would not usually do it
grasp the nettle to force yourself to be brave and do something that is difficult o
be green with envy to be very unhappy because someone has something that you w
grin and bear it to accept something bad without complaining
come/get to grips with sth to make an effort to understand and deal with a problem or situ
grit your teeth to accept a difficult situation and deal with it in a determined w
be on (your) guard to be careful to avoid being tricked or getting into a dangerous
catch sb off guard
let your guard down
drop/lower your guard
let your hair down
get/gain the upper hand
get out of hand
at the hands of sb
get/lay/put your hands on sth
have your hands full
in hand
on/to hand
have (got) to hand it to sb
get the hang of sth
the hard way
have it in for sb
keep your head above water
laugh, shout, scream, etc. your head off
open your heart
at heart
take sth to heart
hell of a / helluva
like hell
hold down a job
hold your own / hold your (own) ground
(not) hold water
ring/sound hollow
go/sell like hot cakes
be ill at ease
the ins and outs of sth
to/for all intents and purposes
itch to do sth / itch for sth
do the job
do/make a good/bad, etc. job of sth
jump to conclusions
the jury is (still) out
do justice to sb/sth / do sb/sth justice
keep (sb) at it
not take kindly to sth
know your stuff/onions [old-fashioned]
know best
know better (than to do sth)
labour of love
at large
the last sb heard/saw of sb/sth
take the law into your own hands
by/in leaps and bounds
not in the least
leave sb to their own devices
leave no stone unturned
the length and breadth of somewhere
let go
let's face it
cast/shed/throw light on sth
come to light / bring sth to light
within limits
along the lines of sth / along those lines
in line with sth
(be) on the line
(step/be) out of line
read between the lines
loom large
lose heart
lose sight of sth
lose sleep over/about sth
be at a loss
be lost for words
bring a lump to your throat
make do
leave your/its mark (on sb/sth)
make a/your mark (on sth)
be a matter of life and/or death
mean well
by all means
a means to an end
in memory of sb
(take) a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane
have sth on your mind
in your mind's eye
mind (you)
mind your own business [humorous]
the minute (that)
miss the boat/bus
be in the mood
go through the motions [disapproving]
get a move on
so much for sth
the naked eye
in the name of sth / in sth's name
make a name for yourself
you name it
neck and neck If two competitors are neck and neck, they are level with each o
of winning.
hit/touch/strike a (raw) nerve
be news to sb
the next thing I knew
none the worse, better, richer, etc.
none too [formal]
make (a) nonsense of sth
poke/stick your nose into sth
((out) from) under your nose
be nothing if not generous, honest, helpful,
etc.
go/get/head nowhere
against (all) the odds/against all odds
be at odds with sb/sth
be one of a kind
go overboard
get your own back (on sb)
(be) part and parcel of sth
the best/better part of
on the part of sb/on sb's part
go through a bad/difficult/rough/sticky patch
pave the way
pay the price
pick up the pieces
get the picture
go/fall to pieces
put sb in their place
play (sth) by ear
play it by ear
play games
pluck up your courage / pluck up (the) courage
to dothe
sthplunge
take
a sore point
to the point
be poles apart
be at a premium
make your presence felt
be/fall prey to sth
at any price
swallow your pride
be in the process of doing sth
in the process
pull your weight
pull strings
have/keep your finger on the pulse
if/when push comes to shove
put sb on the spot
an unknown quantity
be out of the question / be no question of
(doing) sth
at any rate
at this rate
reap the benefit, reward, etc.
recharge your batteries
be a recipe for disaster, trouble, success, etc.
red tape
be in the red
be far removed from sth [formal]
in good, bad, etc. repair / in a good, bad, etc.
state of last
be your repair
resort
retrace your steps
ring a bell
a riot of colour
run riot
ripe for developed to a suitable condition for something to happen
give rise to to cause sth
rock the boat [informal] If you rock the boat, you do or say something that will upset pe
go through the roof / hit the roof to get very angry
a roof over your head a place to live
learn/know the ropes to learn/know how to do a job or activity
round of applause a period of time during which people are clapping
be running at sth to be at the rate of something
run wild [disapproving] If someone, often a child, runs wild, that person behaves as the
make a run for it controlled
to suddenlybystart
anyone.
running in order to escape from somewhere
be (stuck) in a rut to not have changed what you do or how you do it for a very lon
be in the same boat interesting
to be in theany longer
same unpleasant situation as other people
by the same token used to mean that something you are about to say is also true,
to say nothing of ... has
and just been said
in addition there is ...
behind the scenes If something happens behind the scenes, it happens without mo
(not be/come) up to scratch especially
reaching anwhen something
acceptable else is happening publicly.
standard
see eye to eye (with sb) to agree with sb
see red to become very angry
see sense/reason to be reasonable and have good judgment
take shape to start to develop a more clear or certain form
have your (fair) share of sth to have a lot or more than enough of something bad
send shivers down/up your spine / a shiver to feel very frightened or excited
down
cut sthyour spine
short to have to stop doing something before it is finished
a shoulder to cry on someone who is willing to listen to your problems and give you
sick to your stomach and encouragement
1) likely to vomit; 2) feeling very upset, worried, angry
on the side 1) in addition to your main job; 2) secretly; 3) (US) (of food in a
put/lay sth on/to one side plate,
to not or
useonsomething,
the side ofespecially
the plate an amount of money, in order
lose sight of sth to forget about an important idea or fact because you are think
set your sights/heart on sth to decide to achieve sth
have sth up your sleeve [informal] to have secret plans or ideas
slip sb's memory/mind to be forgotten
be snowed under (with sth) to have so much work that you have problems dealing with it al
only so much/many used to say that there are limits to something
be (really) something [informal] to be very special or admired
be something of a sth used to describe a person or thing in a way that is partly true bu
[informal]
something like similar to
would (just) as soon / would sooner If you would (just) as soon do something or would sooner do som
not be on speaking terms it rather
If you arethan
not something
on speakingelse thatwith
terms is possible.
someone, you refuse to sp
so to speak angry with
used to themthat what you are saying is not to be understoo
explain
speak your mind to say what you think about something very directly
speak volumes If something speaks volumes, it makes an opinion, characteristi
speaks for itself the use of words
If something speaks for itself, it is clear and needs no further ex
make a splash to become suddenly very successful or very well known
have a soft spot for sb/sth to feel that you like someone/ something very much
on the spot immediately
spring to mind to come quickly into your mind
on the spur of the moment used to say that a decision, action, etc. is sudden and done with
at stake If something that is valuable is at stake, it is in a situation wher
it stands to reason said when something is obvious or clear from the facts
know where you stand to know what your opinion or situation is
stand your ground to refuse to be pushed backwards, or to continue in your beliefs
stay put to remain in the same place or position
let/blow off steam to do or say something that helps you to get rid of strong feelin
steer clear of sb/sth to avoid someone or something that seems unpleasant, danger
take stock (of sth) to examine a situation carefully
a stone's throw a very short distance
stop short of sth If you stop short of doing or saying something, you decide not t
almost do. better or much more advanced than another thing o
to be much
be streets ahead (of sb/sth) [informal]
(no) strings (attached) If something such as an agreement has strings attached, it invo
be going strong to continue to exist and be successful or work well, after a long
sure enough [informal] as expected
a double-edged sword Something that is double-edged acts in two ways, often with on
can take it / I take it effect
said if you think that what you say is likely to be true, although
give and take willingness to accept suggestions from another person and give
take sth as it comes to deal with something as it happens, without planning for it
be in good/bad/poor, the best/worst possible, to be acceptable in a way that will not upset or anger people
etc.
teachtaste
sb a lesson A person or experience that teaches you a lesson improves you
I told you so! you
said experience the bad
when something effects
bad of your
happens afteractions
you warned someone t
touch and go If a situation is touch-and-go, it is uncertain
(I'll) tell you what used to suggest a plan
come to terms with sth to gradually accept a sad situation, often the death of someone
be on good, friendly, etc. terms (with sb) to have a good, friendly, etc. relationship with someone
be at / reach the end of your tether/rope
thick and fast
through thick and thin
disappear/vanish into thin air
do your own thing [informal]
who would have thought it?
this and that / this, that, and the other
[informal]
thread your way through, between, etc. sth
on the threshold of sth
throw caution to the wind/winds
tie the knot
be in a tight corner/spot
tighten your belt
give sb a hard time [informal]
have no time for sb
time flies [saying]
(be the) tip of the iceberg
(keep sb/yourself) on their/your toes
take its/a toll on sb/sth
from top to bottom
(be/feel) on top of the world
over the top [informal]
to top it (all) off / topping it (all) off
torn between sth and sth
throw/chuck in the towel
do the trick [informal]
turn your back on sb/sth // turn away from sth
turn your nose up (at sth)
turn over a new leaf
make yourself understood
come in useful/handy/etc.
nothing ventured, nothing gained [saying]
on the verge (of) / to the verge of
wasted on sb
be (like) water off a duck's back
make waves [informal]
be on the same wavelength
get sth out of the way
go out of your way
make your way
wear thin [informal]
having no strength or patience left
quickly and in large numbers
If you support or stay with someone through thick and thin, you
them, even ifsuddenly
to disappear there areand
problems or difficulties
completely
to do what you want without worrying about what anyone else t
used to say that you are very surprised something has happene
various things
to move carefully through a crowded space, changing direction
things
at the start of a new and important time or development
to act in a completely reckless manner
to get married
to be in a difficult situation
to spend less money than you did before because you have less
to make things difficult or unpleasant for sb
to disapprove of sb and not want to be involved with them
used to mean that time passes surprisingly quickly
a small, noticeable part of a problem, the total size of which is r
sb/sth that keeps you on your toes forces you to continue direct
to
to what
causeyou
harmareordoing
suffering on sb/sth
If you search, paint, etc. a building from top to bottom, you sea
extremely happy
too extreme and not suitable, or demanding too much attention
uncontrolled way
to add sth else unusually good or bad to a situation that is alrea
finding it difficult to choose between sth and sth
to admit defeat
if sth does the trick, it has the necessary or wanted effect
to refuse to help sb
to refuse to accept sth because you feel that it is not good enou
to start behaving in a better way
to communicate effectively
to be useful and help sb to do or achieve sth
You have to take risk in order to get sth good.
if you are on the verge of sth or come to the verge of sth, you're
if you say that sth is wasted on sb, you mean that its quality is too high f
understand its true value
criticisms of or warnings to a particular person that have no effe
to be very active so that other people notice you, often in a way that inte
(of two or more people) to think in a similar way and to understand each
to finish sth
to try very hard to do sth, esp. for sb else
to travel or move to a place
1) If your patience wears thin, you become less and less patien
2) If sth such as a joke wears thin, it becomes boring or annoyin
be/feel under the weather not feeling well
what with [informal] used to talk about the reasons for a particular situation, especia
not sleep a wink / not get a wink of sleep to not sleep at all
in sb's words used when you repeat what sb said
word for word using exactly the same words
do sb the world of good to make sb feel much happier or healthier
out of this world [informal] extremely good
fear the worst to think sth unpleasant might have happened
be worth your while to be an activity or action that you will get an advantage from
don't get me wrong said when you think someone might not understand what you s
n no account/not on any account be done, it must not be done at any time Employees must on no account
e definitions
ourself so thatshould
you do be obtained
things from dictionary.cambridge.org)
in an effective way calls
She's from the office.- (there
so disorganized should
I wish she'd beher
get onlyact

hat someone has made a bad situation worse by doing something else to I was late and, to add insult to injury, forgot
o something, it will cause problems for you if you do it We can ill afford to lose another member of sta
ad a new thought that is different from or the opposite of what you have just said I like to travel but, then again, I'm very fond of m
erstand the danger of something A local doctor was the first to raise the alarm
st and be full of energy or continue to be popular or successful virus.
She saidhad
she'd
I always theseen himshe
feeling lastwas
week and he me a
keeping
ecome too friendly with you kicking
length. . Despite rumours to the contrary, feminism
pinion on something If you ask me, I think the test should not be give
ction and then in the opposite one choice form gently back and forth to the music
She swayed
hind someone's back, you do it without them knowing, in a way that is unfair I dread to think what they say about me behind m
alance, it has reached a stage where it will soon be decided one way or another The game hung in the balance until the last mi
arts an activity, or to start doing something in order to encourage other people to do We have to get the ball rolling on this projec
activity that is successful so that you can get the advantages of it yourself The song led many cover singers to jump on th
of tool or weapon bandwagon with the same
Workers for this company have singing style danger
to undertake
s previously mentioned with their
She is a pretty bare hands
girl. Oh, she's intelligent into the b
asant from harming you Regular exercise can help keep fat at bay.
s fruit, it produces successful results Eventually her efforts bore fruit and she got the
eople go, far from any main roads and towns wanted.
The farmhouse we stayed in was completely
our own bad behaviour is behind you, it does not exist or affect your life now track .
Those dark days are behind me now, I'm glad
angry, especially by continuing to do something annoying The kids have been driving me round the b
elf because of the strength of emotion you are feeling He was beside himself with rage
ances are very good had
He'sdone
never very happy at the best of times
worse
Clothesnow!
are a safe bet as a present for a teenag
to happen, to succeed or to be suitable
what is the best action for them to take to get the result they want If you want to get around London fast, the Undergrou
e of the same kind best bet.
Our professional service promises you a wedding
omething beyond a shadow of a doubt, you are certain that it is true compare.
This is beyond a shadow of a doubt
f various kinds seen this year.
She stuffed all her bits and pieces into a bag a
e done everything you can, or until something is completely finished, despite
s They were prepared to fight to the bitter end
g of something The trial was conducted under a blanket of sec
ime I can handle all these tasks in the blink of an
ely angry The way they treated people makes my blood
ht that makes your blood run cold frightens you very much The idea of having to give a speech
mind, you find it very exciting and unusual cold.
That scenario completely blows my mind.
e of an opportunity by doing or saying something wrong I really blew it when I turned down that job offer, d
effect on people at every level and in every area The improvement has been across the boa
divisions
His wageseither increasing
are barely profits
enough to or reducing l
ur food, clothing, and somewhere to live
more people argue about strongly over a long period of time together
Who should. be the president is a bone of cont
one about something annoying they have done I've got a bone to pick with you
my shaver again.
 good/bad books, they are pleased/not pleased with you He's in Melanie's bad books
hours
This islate.
a private deal - we don't have to
as the rules tell you
in a situation by
Thethe book.line is that we need another te
bottom
dollars to complete
This recovery the project.
technique breaks new groun
hing new
mebody some bad news Come on, what happened? Break it to me g
a kind way).
I waited for the results with bated breath
d and nervous) or excited way
that is new and different and makes everything seem more exciting Angela's so cheerful and lively - she's
happen, often feeling anxious fresh air
Citizens when
held theirshe visitswaiting for the result
breath
election
He muttered something under his breath
ople cannot hear exactly what you are saying
She had a bumpy ride after his father died
mely nervous and worried She is always a bundle of nerves before every
examinations
To earn enough to live on, my father used to b
midnight oil call it a day and go home
It's late. Let's
Love is not on my cards because I only focus o
s and important enough to influence other people California carries weight because it is the econ
of
Histhe country
innocent smile catched my eyes
ent enough to be noticed by someone
Chances are (that) they'll be late anyway.
the way you feel about something I had a change of heart after deep consideratio
mething that has been worrying you treated
or making you feel guilty Confiding in close friends is a great way to get
because you think you have been unfairly or feel youforare
a long time
not as good as your
I had chest
a chip on my shoulder when I didn't pass
a
It famous university
s among people is time to clear the air to get rid of the div
by the election.
After police investigated his house, he was pro
not involved in doing something bad
without public knowing the clear
Nuclear .
schemes are set out behind closed do
and excited "Was Helen pleased about getting that job?" "P
d blood they kill mercilessly and showing no emotion was on in
He kills cloud
coldnine!"
blood and never gives it a th
opinions between two groups Now it is time to find common ground and forg
differences
I need to declare a conflict of interest here - on
meone cannot make a fair decision because they will be affected by the result
candidates for the
To tackle these job is a try
problems, friend of mine
to keep your hea
ulties
I lost my cool on hearing that he is the next pr
Spring is around the corner! Cheer up!
g, especially at the time when the sun first appears The air is fresh at the crack of dawn
having a good time, especially by going somewhere with them On my first date, my younger sister tried to
style andmy
I crossed followed us path and this is someh
ex-lover's
embarrassing
The baby cried his eyes out when he couldnot
xtremely clear His thesis statement is crystal clear so I under
essay quite
I am cut outwell
for sitting still. I love moving arou
of person for something
ngrily not to do something Don't you dare reading my diary!
ething that other people know about She is in the dark about the password
py He made my day with a deep kiss
She sat, not listening, but deep in thought.
ew and difficult without help or preparation I jumped in at the deep end when I decided to
that competitive contest
d has existed for a long time The division now goes deep between the Dem
Republicans
Physics and science-related subjects are out o
ge, experience, or skills to deal with a particular subject or situation
for girls like from
Graduating me a prestigious university, he fi
your dignity, you feel that you are too important to do it
officer is beneath
The plane histwo
landed at dignity
o'clock on the dot.
expected time
nsibility or decision To reduce poverty is down to the government
ew Zealand She was born in Scotland, but she's been living
for 22factory
If the years closes, that will be a million dolla
oes down the drain, it is spoiled or wasted
investment down
you the drain
ey, and no opportunities Nobody loves when you're down and ou
orse After his wife died, his health started to go do
e you think it is wrong I swear a lot, but I even draw the line at
words.
The money we raised was beyond our wild
magined or hoped
hing is better than anything you could imagine or hope for dreams.
Never in my wildest dreams
day I would
My father is run
verya generous,
marathon.but I
uld not do something because you think it is wrong or silly
actually asking
I don't want himabout
to talk for money!
it any more - let's
mething, especially because it is upsetting or annoying
nimportant, esp. when compared with something else subject .
We were paid about $50,000, but that was
bucket compared
She's a bit down intothe
whatdumps
some other compa
of her exams.
Regular investment of small amounts of mone
at has been saved or kept for a special purpose
end of the world, it will not cause very serious problems
excellent
I'm really way of building
hoping a nest
to win, but it wo egg
quality or feature world if I don't.
Some lucky people are endowed with
on look silly beauty.
Would you stop making jokes at my expens
r someone or something, often while you are doing something else While you are checking the animals,
r sb/sth open
Keep anfor eye
any signs of disease
peeled .
for spyware program
ected by others themselves on your computer.
She had to accept defeat without losing face
ourself from smiling or laughing She tried to keep a straight face
al with a difficult situation or problem herself,
She left burst
homeinto laughter.
in the face of strong oppositi
escribing how a situation seems on the surface parents.
On the face of it, it seems like a bargain, b
or upsets someone are hidden
It was costs.
a real slap in the face
sant to sb's face, you say it to them directly, when you are together to go out to dinner with him.
If you've got something to say, say it to my f
say before you say something that is unpleasant but true Let's face it, we both know why I stopped w
to place, they happen in a satisfactory way, without problems; 2) when 1) If you plan the project well, then everything
trning
you did
fallsnot
on understand before fall intotoplace, they become easy to into
deaf ears, no one listens it Their place . to release the hostages fell on
appeals
hat upsets or annoys people His jokes are funny, but sometimes he goes t
achieving or dealing with something These intensive courses claim to offer
s full of excitement, activity, and often danger wealth
Parties and
and success.
women - he was living life in the
ement Getting the job finished in under a week
y sitting with your feet supported above the ground feat . home and put your feet up.
You go
hat something will happen I'm just going to cross my fingers and hop
t reason why a situation is the way it is, especially when something is wrong There's something odd about him, but I can't q
on at your fingertips, you can get it and use it very easily finger
He onthe
has all it. latest statistics at his fingert
The government has come under fire
s very dangerous and to take risks close the mines.
Mr Morrison ratcheted up his attack on Labor d
parliamentary question time, accusing the opp
or someone to start burning The protesters set fire to several vehicles.
something as being more important than anyone or anything else She all too often puts others first
think of herself.was over in a flash.
The ceremony
tion I couldn't send him away - he's my own fles
pt a situation, rather than trying to alter or control it blood
Lisa had. no idea what to do now, so she resolv
e what seems sensible or normal only thing
This is she could that
an argument in such a situation:
seems to
as someone else did previously common sense.in her mother's footsteps
She followed
/unsuccessful start in something her own business.
Preparations this year quickly got off on the
to stop something happening foot
When. she started borrowing my clothes withou
accident that embarrasses or upsets someone had to put
I really put my
my foot
foot down
in my. mouth
ideas or structures from which something much larger develops was her mother,
The two but she
leaders have said
laid theJane is her sister
foundations
known or what has been done before in an area of knowledge or an activity era in cooperation
For years, between
astronomers havetheir
beencountries.
slowly push
to do anything you consider necessary frontiers
The of the
company's observable
given me a freeuniverse
hand- tolookin
neg
mething, especially because it is better, cheaper, easier, etc. In some areas, modern intensive farming is
watching something to
We the
werere-introduction
glued to theof traditional methods. t
television watching
ainst the grain, you would not usually do it because it would be unusual results comeit in.
These days goes against the grain
e brave and do something that is difficult or unpleasant much
You'verespect for authority.
been putting off making that phone cal
because someone has something that you want think it's about time
Chad is heading off toyou grasped
Spain for the the nettl
week, and
bad without complaining with
I reallyenvy
don't. want to go, but I guess I'll just ha
understand and deal with a problem or situation and bear it. has failed to come to grips w
The president
ituation and deal with it in a determined way most
We hadimportant socialteeth
to grit our issuesand
of our time.
agree with the
d being tricked or getting into a dangerous situation because we wanted the contract.
You always have to be on your guard aga
pickpockets.
e neck and neck, they are level with each other and have an equal chance
 ble condition for something to happen The company is ripe for takeover.
International support has given rise to
you do or say something that will upset people or cause problems. in the rock
Don't company.
the boat until the negotiations a
When I was expelled from school, my parents
through theenough
She gave him roof. money to get
do a job or activity head.
Before you start the business, get to
ng which people are clapping the
The market.
singer got a big round of applause.
omething Inflation is running ideally at 2% per yea
child, runs wild, that person behaves as they want to without being Don't be too hard on him - he may run wi
.
ning in order to escape from somewhere Martin makes a run for it, afraid his father
what you do or how you do it for a very long time so that it is not a beating.
The European Committee was stuck in a ru
er
pleasant situation as other people losing always
She's its direction.
complaining that she doesn't hav
omething you are about to say is also true, for the same reasons as what money, butneed
Popularity we're beinequated
notall the same boat
with the destr
is ... intellectual
It would be anvalues and, by
enormous the same
amount token
of work,
s behind the scenes, it happens without most people knowing about it, nothing
A of work
lot of hard the cost.
has been going on
ething else is happening publicly. scenes
ble standard Your last.essay wasn't up to scratch
to scratch
My .
sister didnt see eye to eye with me
y to tell my parents aboutathe
People who don't finish jobproblem.
really make me s
d have good judgment We talked to her for an hour, but we couldn't m
more clear or certain form sense . ambitious efforts to develop wind po
Globally,
than enough of something bad beginning
She's hadto take
her shape
fair . of tragedies in he
share
ed or excited I tried to smile, suppressing the shiver that
g something before it is finished running down my
Their conversation wasspine .
cut short
ng to listen to your problems and give you sympathy, emotional support, guests.
I wish you'd been here when my mother died a
feeling very upset, worried, angry a
1) shoulder
I'm (feeling)tosick
crytoonmy
. stomach
main job; 2) secretly; 3) (US) (of food in a restaurant) served on another 1) He makes a little money onstomach
2) It makes me sick to my the side
of the plate an amount of money, in order to keep it for later use
g, especially windows in his spare time.
We have put some money on one side
summer holiday.
mportant idea or fact because you are thinking too much about other things Participants must be able to put in their best e
sth losing sight of the
Jenny has set her collaborative
sights and suppo
on winning the co
or ideas I still have a few ideas up my sleeve
inevitably
I forgot I'd disappoint
arranged tosome
meetreaders
Richardand
lastplease
night
completely slipped my mind
 k that you have problems dealing with it all I'm absolutely snowed under with
e are limits to something moment.
There are only so many hours in your worki
admired cannot
Imaginepossibly
winningdo
anall the work.
Olympic medal - now that
erson or thing in a way that is partly true but not completely or exactly something . question for you - I hear you'r
I have a biology
something of anfor
He cursed himself expert.
not having foreseen that
soon do something or would sooner do something, you would prefer to do something like this
"Would you like to go outmight happen. "I
for dinner?"
hing else thatwith
is possible. stay
aking terms someone, you refuse to speak to them because you are Theyin - I'm
had annot feeling last
argument verynight
well."and now they
what you are saying is not to be understood exactly as stated speaking terms it's
In that relationship (with
veryeach other).
much Lorna who w
k about something very directly trousers, so to
He's certainly speak
not afraid (= Lorna makes
to speak all the
his mind .
volumes, it makes an opinion, characteristic, or situation very clear without She said very little but her face spoke volum
for itself, it is clear and needs no further explanation The school's excellent record speaks for its
very successful or very well known Jodie Foster made quite a splash
someone/ something very much Driver".
She'd always had a soft spot for her youn
You can be sacked on the spot for stealing.
your mind Say the word "Australia" and a vision of beach
ecision, action, etc. is sudden and done without any planning seas
We just jumped in springs
immediately to mind
a car on the spur of the
valuable is at stake, it is in a situation where it might be lost and drove to
Thousands ofthe seaside.
lives will be at stake
g is obvious or clear from the facts not arrive in the city soon. population has 80 p
If 20 percent of the earth's
pinion or situation is resources,
I know where then itI stands
stand on to this
reason
issue that
- I'm a
ed backwards, or to continue in your beliefs in an argument war.
Clare stood her ground in the meeting and
e place or position be
Justintimidated
stay put even when
with the Michael while
suitcases, got angry.
I go a
ng that helps you to get rid of strong feelings or energy He lifts weights after work to let off steam.
something that seems unpleasant, dangerous, or likely to cause problems They warned their children to steer clear of
on carefully After the storm homeowners came out to
e the
The damage.
apartment is just a stone's throw from
oing or saying something, you decide not to do or say it although you I stopped short of telling him the brutal tru
much more advanced than another thing or person The latest sales figures show that we
an agreement has strings attached, it involves special demands or limits: of theofcompetition.
Most these so-called special offers come wit
and be successful or work well, after a long period attached .
After fifty years, the town's theatre
strong .
He said he'd left the book on the desk, and
uble-edged acts in two ways, often with one negative and one positive there it was.
The government's programme to grow cash cr
what you say is likely to be true, although it is not proved export is a double-edged sword
You'll be staying the night, I take it?
suggestions from another person and give up some of your own In every relationship there must be some give
ng as it happens, without planning for it I'd rather not plan my day, I'd like to
way that will not upset or anger people comes and
Most of my do whatever
uncle's jokes areI not
feelin
is good
right. tas
ce that teaches you a lesson improves your future behaviour by making Having my car stolen really taught me a le
bad
g badeffects of your
happens afteractions
you warned someone that it would happen never leave it unlocked again.
-and-go, it is uncertain The doctor says that it's touch-and-go whe
an will be okay.
I'll tell you what - we'll split the money betw
a sad situation, often the death of someone you love I think he's still coming to terms with
dly, etc. relationship with someone wife
Are you on good terms with your boss?
r patience left By six o'clock after a busy day I'm
numbers tether
Distress. calls were pouring in, thick and fas
y with someone through thick and thin, you always support or stay with over the stuck
She has area. with me through thick and
reand
y problems or difficulties
completely The museum's alarm went off, but by the time
without worrying about what anyone else thinks of you arrived
Though the
we culprits
did walkhad disappeared
together as a group,into
evert
are very surprised something has happened virtually doing
So, Alex is goingtheir own
out with thing
Hannah.
thought
"What were it?
you talking about?" "Oh, this and
ough a crowded space, changing direction in order to avoid people or She quickly threaded her way through
and important time or development market
For a cityplace.
that is on the threshold of
y reckless manner expansion,
And once inMr.
yourMonayee's
life you'llisget
a gentle reminder
at least one op
one challenge to throw caution to
After having a five-year romantic relations the wi
uation and G40
The Alex faction
decidedintoZanutie the
PF isknot
than you did before because you have less money Iand
havebattling to survive,
to tighten amid
my belt reports
this monththatbec
ult or unpleasant for sb all money on those books.
My mother gave me a very hard time
nd not want to be involved with them angry
I havewith me) about
no time staying
for people who outarelate.
alway
me passes surprisingly quickly complaining and talking.
Times flies when you're having fun, so ap
art of a problem, the total size of which is really much greater The princial's influence could
u on your toes forces you to continue directing all your attention and energy icerbeg of what could
Hourly productive be "improperargum
and constructive relati
g
ffering on sb/sth my staff keep hostility
me on my toes
India-Pakistan on borders and sep
etc. a building from top to bottom, you search, paint, etc. all parts of it agitation is taking a heavy toll
They cleaned the house from top to bot on
He was on top of the world
suitable, or demanding too much attention or effort, especially in an five-kilometre
We all found her race.idea about ruling the wor
ually good or bad to a situation that is already unusual the top.it all off, they found themselves l
Topping
choose between sth and sth their
She isown
torn house.
between her loyalty and her de
the truth.
We are left with many unanswered quest
it has the necessary or wanted effect one thing
"This sauceisneeds
for sure:
morewe haven't
flavour" - "I come
know, this
som
juice should do the trick.
We don't think that Alex would
th because you feel that it is not good enough for you brother,
Mary whatever
turned he was
her nose upaccused
at of.
a better way she didn't think it had enough status.
Apparenly he's turned over a new leaf
ctively smoking anyspoke
Since they more. only Swahili, we used sig
p sb to do or achieve sth gestures
You should to keep
make ourselves
that paint - it understood
will
in order to get sth good. handy / useful one day.
"Should I ask my boss for a promotion?" - "
ge of sth or come to the verge of sth, you're very close to experiencing it ventured,
Her husband's nothing
violentgained ."
and abusive behavi
sted on sb, you mean that its quality is too high for that person and they will not
e to the verge of despair.
I'm not going to serve that good coffee to Chri
ngs to a particular person that have no effect on that person would behim
I've told wasted
manyon them.
times that he's heading
t other people notice you, often in a way that intentionally causes trouble troubles - he not
It's probably justadoesn't listen,
good idea to it
to think in a similar way and to understand each other well first
Whatweek in athe
worsens new job. is that Christine an
problem
aren't on the
I like to get same wavelength
my homework out of the way
o sth, esp. for sb else night so that really
The Smiths I can enjoy
went the weekend.
out of their way
a place feelgetting
It's welcome.
dark - we should make our wa
ears thin, you become less and less patient soon
1) . been warning you several times about b
I've
ke wears thin, it becomes boring or annoying or stops being funny or and my patience is wearing thin
 I've been (feeling) under the weather
e reasons for a particular situation, especially a bad or difficult situation should see
I'm very a doctor.
tired, what with travelling all da
and having
I didn't a disturbed
sleep night. of the ince
a wink because
at what sb said from Mary's.
His wife, Mary, was 25 years old his junior
words , "my guidingtolight".
I listened attentively what she said and repe
h happier or healthier word-for-word
We had a week away inmum.
to my the sun and it's
both the world of good
What a restaurant - the food . was out of t
nt might have happened We hoped that our parents would be found saf
ction that you will get an advantage from but we feared
secretlyyour
It's worth while the worst
taking travel insuran
someone might not understand what you say, or be upset by it travel.
Don't get me wrong - I would love to co
too busy next week.
 no account make personal phone
(there should
I wish she'd beher
get onetogether
onlyact example in
.

insult to injury, forgot my keys.

o lose another member of staff.
n again, I'm very fond of my home.
rst to raise the alarm about this latest
mshe
lastwas
week and he was
keeping mealive and
at arm's
ours to the contrary, feminism is alive and
nk the test should not be given in multiple
ck and forth to the music
ey say about me behind my back.
e balance until the last minute.
ball rolling on this project soon.
er singers to jump on the
e same
ny have singing style dangerous tasks
to undertake
ands
she's intelligent into the bargain!
elp keep fat at bay.
ore fruit and she got the job she
ed in was completely off the beaten
behind me now, I'm glad to say.
iving me round the bend today
self with rage when I told him what I
at the best of timeshe'll be much
et as a present for a teenager.
d London fast, the Underground is your
e promises you a wedding without
hadow of a doubt the best film I have
s and pieces into a bag and left.
fight to the bitter end for their rights.
d under a blanket of secrecy.
asks in the blink of an eye.
eople makes my blood boil.
ve a speech made my blood run
ly blows my mind.
I turned down that job offer, didn't I?
s been across the board, with all
asing profits
enough or reducing
to keep body losses.
and soul
resident is a bone of contention
o pick with you - you've been using
bad books because he arrived two
- we don't have to do everything
s that we need another ten thousand
queproject.
he breaks new ground.
ened? Break it to me gently (= in
ts with bated breath
and lively - she's like a breath of
visitswaiting for the results of the
eath
ing under his breath
e after his father died
le of nerves before every important
e on, my father used to burn the
a day and go home
rds because I only focus on study
ght because it is the economy engine
atched my eyes
) they'll be late anyway.
art after deep consideration
ends is a great way to get things off
houlder when I didn't pass the exam to
he air to get rid of the division created
ted his house, he was proved to be in
set out behind closed doors
about getting that job?" "Pleased? She
e!"
od and never gives it a thought.
common ground and forget the
onflict of interest here - one of the
b is a try
ems, friend of mine
to keep your head.
ring that he is the next president
corner! Cheer up!
e crack of dawn
younger sister tried to cramp my
us
r's path and this is somehow
yes out when he couldnot find mommy
is crystal clear so I understand his
g still. I love moving around
ng my diary!
out the password
h a deep kiss
g, but deep in thought.
ep end when I decided to participate
test
 s deep between the Democratics and
related subjects are out of my depth
estigious university, he finds being an
dignity
two o'clock on the dot.
down to the government
land, but she's been living down under
that will be a million dollars' worth of
e drain
hen you're down and out.
is health started to go downhill.
ven draw the line at saying certain
d was beyond our wildest
est dreams did I imagine that one
arathon.
nerous, but I wouldn't dream of
or money!
bout it any more - let's drop the
$50,000, but that was a drop in the
othe
whatdumps
some other companies
because got.one
she failed
of small amounts of money is an
win, a nest
dingbut eggbe
it won't . the end of the
re endowed with both brains and
ng jokes at my expense?
ng the animals, keep your eyes
of disease
led .
for spyware programs that install
computer.
efeat without losing face.
straight face but, unable to contain
ughter.
e face of strong opposition from her
it seems like a bargain, but I bet there
n the face for him when she refused
ing him.
ith to say, say it to my face.
oth know why I stopped working there.
ject well, then everything should fall
ase the hostages fell on deaf ears.
but sometimes he goes too far.
ses claim to offer a fast track to
he was living life in the fast lane.
ed in under a week was no mean
t your feet up.
ss my fingers and hope it works.
dd about him, but I can't quite put my
statistics at his fingertips.
come under fire for its decision to
d up his attack on Labor during a fiery
on time, accusing the opposition of
fire to several vehicles.
ts others first and never stops to
ver in a flash.
way - he's my own flesh and
at to do now, so she resolved to do the
in such
that seems to fly ingo
a situation: with
the facethe
of
er mother's footsteps, starting
r quickly got off on the wrong
rrowing my clothes without asking, I
tt down
in my. mouth I asked her if Jane
eshe said
laid theJane is her sister. of a new
foundations
etween
ers havetheir
beencountries.
slowly pushing back the
bservable
n me a free universe
hand- tolooking further
negotiate and
a deal.
rn intensive farming is giving way
nthe
of traditional methods. the election
television watching
against the grain to show too
hority.
off making that phone call for days - I
you grasped
o Spain for the the nettle
week, ! green
and I'm
go, but I guess I'll just have to grin
led to come to grips with the two
alteeth
issuesand
of our time.
agree with their conditions
theon
be contract.
your guard against
e for takeover.
has given rise to a new optimism
at until the negotiations are finished.
from school, my parents went
.h money to get a roof over his
business, get to know the ropes of
round of applause.
g ideally at 2% per year.
on him - he may run wild.
n for it, afraid his father will give him
ittee was stuck in a rut and was
ining that she doesn't have enough
l inequated
be the same boat
with the .
destruction of
nd, by
mous the same
amount token
of work, ,
to say
t.
s been going on behind the
't up to scratch/didn't come up
eye to eye with me about the how
sh athe
out jobproblem.
really make me see red.
an hour, but we couldn't make her see
fforts to develop wind power are
hape
share. of tragedies in her life.
ressing the shiver that was
yasspine .
cut short by the arrival of more
re when my mother died and I needed
onmy
to . stomach.
k to my
money onstomach
the side when I remember
by cleaning
time. on one side for next year's
money
able to put in their best efforts without
e collaborative
sights and supportive
on winning process.
the competition.
eas up my sleeve, which will
some
to meetreaders
Richardand
lastplease
night -others.
it
my mind.
wed under with work at the
many hours in your working day - you
ll the work.
Olympic medal - now that would be
stion for you - I hear you're
expert.
r not having foreseen that
oisout
might happen. "I'd just as soon
for dinner?"
ng verynight
nt last well."and now they're not on
with each
's very other).
much Lorna who wears the
ak
aid (= Lorna makes
to speak all the
his mind . important
ut her face spoke volumes.
nt record speaks for itself.
quite a splash in the film "Taxi
soft spot for her younger nephew.
n the spot for stealing.
alia" and a vision of beaches and blue
prings to mind
car on the spur. of the moment
side.
ill be at stake if emergency aid does
soon. population has 80 percent of its
earth's
andson
tand to this
reason
issue that 80 percent
- I'm against the of
round in the meeting and refused to
when Michael while
he suitcases, got angry.
I go and find a cab.
work to let off steam.
hildren to steer clear of drugs.
eowners came out to take stock of
t a stone's throw from the sea.
f telling him the brutal truth.
es show that we're streets ahead
ed special offers come with strings
town's theatre is still going
book on the desk, and sure enough,
ogramme to grow cash crops for
edged
night, sword
I take it?because it has
there must be some give and take.
my day, I'd like to take life as it
okes areI not
atever feelin
is good
right. taste.
n really taught me a lesson - I'll
ed again.
it's touch-and-go whether Mary
we'll split the money between us.
ing to terms with the death of his
erms with your boss?
 busy day I'm at the end of my
ouring in, thick and fast, from all
me through thick and thin.
went off, but by the time police
ad disappeared
together as a group,into thin air
everyone was.
ir own
with thingWho
Hannah. . would have
ng about?" "Oh, this and that."
ed her way through the crowded
the threshold of a major
yee's
you'llisget
a gentle reminder
at least that the city
one opportunity,
ow caution
year romantictorelationship,
the wind, take
Marythe
oZanu
tie the
PF isknot
now. in a tight corner
vive,belt
my amid reports
this monththat more of
because its
I spent
books.
me a very hard time (= was very
out staying
r people who outare
late.
always
alking.
you're having fun, so appreciate it.
ence could be the tip of the
ould be "improperarguments
and constructive relationships
with
on my toes .
ility on borders and separatists'
a heavy
house fromtoll
topon
tocivilians
bottomand.
the world when he came first in the
ea about ruling the world way over
hey found themselves locked out of
en her loyalty and her desire to tell
many unanswered questions, but
e:
orewe haven't
flavour" - "I come
know, this
somefar to
lemon
trick.
Alex would turn his back on his
he was
nose upaccused of. offer because
at the job
had enough status.
ed over a new leaf and he's not
nly Swahili, we used signs and
ourselves
at paint - it understood
will come in.
sday.
for a promotion?" - "Nothing
entgained
g ."
and abusive behavior drove her
espair.
e that good coffee to Christine - it
on them.
times that he's heading for
oesn'tidea
good listen, it's like
to make waterinoff
waves a
your
job. is that Christine and Mary
oblem
me wavelength
mework out of theabout way how
on ato
Friday
njoy the
went weekend.
out of their way to make us
we should make our way home
you several times about being late
wearing thin.
 ) under the weather for days; I
at with travelling all day yesterday
rbed night. of the incessant noise
ink because
s 25 years old his junior, and, in his
gtolight".
what she said and repeated it
aymyin
mum.
the sun and it's done us
f- the
good . was out of this world!
food
arents would be found safe and sound,
ed the
hile worst.
taking travel insurance before you
ong - I would love to come but I'm
k.