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I felt too tired to go to a party, but decided to make the effort. start learning
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to do something that requires some effort
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We’re trying to ɡive them a nudge towards a practical solution. start learning
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to gently persuade or encourage someone to take a particular decision or action
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Have you had a chance to take a look at my proposal yet? start learning
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to examine somethinɡ and think about it
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The sales department are going to spend next weekend in the mountains doing some team building. start learning
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to carry out activities to encouraɡe a group of people who have been chosen to work together to become more effective and communicate well
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go on a search for something You go on a search for something to eat while I make a fire. start learning
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to attempt to find something
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Working in an office, it’s hard to find time to get some exercise. start learning
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to do physical activities in order to stay healthy and become stronger
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The race around the island will be held on 25th February. start learning
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to compete to run, drive etc. fastest and finish first
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We went for a hike up the mountain. start learning
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to take a long walk in the mountains or countryside
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We were just having a chat when the fire alarm went off. start learning
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to hold an informal friendly conversation
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I’m going upstairs to have a lie-down. start learning
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to have a short rest, usually on a bed
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Sit down and have a well-earned rest. I’ll make you a cup of tea. start learning
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to have a relaxing break that you deserve because you have worked hard
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You look as if you need to have a sit down. start learning
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if you have a sit down, you sit and rest for a short while
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If you see her, please point her out to me. The tour guide pointed out the inscription that runs round the inside of the dome. start learning
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to make a person notice someone or something, sometimes by holding up one of your fingers towards him, her, or it:
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He was planning to book a rock-climbing holiday, till I pointed out that Denis is afraid of heights. I feel I should point out how dangerous it is. start learning
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to tell someone about some information, often because you believe they do not know it or have forgotten it:
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She usually goes for a run before breakfast. start learning
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to spend a period of time running
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go on a teambuilding course We went on a teambuilding course as part of our management training. start learning
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to attend lessons in encouraɡing a group of people who have been chosen to work together to become more effective and communicate well
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We often go for a stroll in the park in our lunch break. start learning
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to walk somewhere in a slow relaxed way
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Do you want me to give you some help? start learning
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to make it easier or possible for someone to do something
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They’ve been working since seven o’clock this morning. We need to give them a break. start learning
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to allow someone to stop doing something for a period of time before they start doing it again
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give someone a warm welcome His colleagues gave him a very warm welcome when he returned to work. start learning
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to greet someone in a friendly way when they arrive at a place
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I’ve been in a meeting for three hours. I need to get some fresh air. start learning
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to breathe some air from outside, especially clean air
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The conference started with a short film to get people talking. start learning
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to encourage or persuade people to talk to each other
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get the benefits of something To get the benefits of the exercise, you should continue for at least half an hour. start learning
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to enjoy the advantages of something
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All players should attend the welcome meeting for the visiting team at their hotel. start learning
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to have a meeting to greet people
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hold a singing competition Each year the school holds a singing competition. start learning
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to organise an event where people try to be the best at singing
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My tutor holds at least three feedback sessions every term. start learning
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to have a meeting where advice, criticism etc. is given about how successful or useful something is
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I’d like everyone to make a contribution towards the discussion. start learning
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to give or do something in order to help something be successful
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make a success of something She’s determined to make a success of her career. start learning
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to be successful in something
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The minister will make a statement on the floods tomorrow. start learning
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to say something, especially in public
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We’re hoping to do some rock climbing while we’re in Peru. start learning
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to do the sport of climbing up very steep rock surfaces such as the sides of mountains
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You’ll need to do plenty of preparation for your kayaking trip in Norway. start learning
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to prepare carefully for something
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A bit more exercise would do you good. start learning
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to have a useful effect on someone
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Why don’t you take the initiative and organise the conference yourself? start learning
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if you take the initiative, you make decisions and take action without waiting for someone to tell you what to do
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Our school took the lead in using green energy – and encouraged all the other local schools to do the same. start learning
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to be the first to start doing something or be most active in doing something
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take something into consideration We will take your recent illness into consideration when marking your exams. start learning
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to remember to think about something important when you are making a decision or judgement
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The talks were meant to break down barriers between the two groups. start learning
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to improve understanding and communication between people who have different opinions:
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But if we make the effort to break down the barriers between us, it unleashes boundless potential in each of us. start learning
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to suddenly release a violent force that cannot be controlled:
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push somebody beyond their comfort zone Rock climbing pushes many people beyond their comfort zones. start learning
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a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your ability and determination are not being tested:
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A priceless collection of vases was destroyed. Her knowledge and experience would make her a priceless (= extremely useful) asset to the team start learning
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A priceless object has such a high value, especially because it is rare, that the price of it cannot be calculated:
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He seems to find it difficult to integrate socially. It's very difficult to integrate yourself into a society whose culture is so different from your own. Children are often very good at integrating into a new culture. start learning
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to mix with and join society or a group of people, often changing to suit their way of life, habits, and customs:
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She invited all her friends to her party, but only a handful of them turned up. start learning
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a small number of people or things (a few)
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You need to have a thick skin if you work in customer service. start learning
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to not care if people criticise you or do not like you
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drive someone up the wall That noise is driving me up the wall. start learning
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to make someone very angry or annoyed
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I wanted to argue, but I had to bite my tongue. start learning
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to stop yourself saying something because you know it would not be sensible to say it
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What really gets under my skin is people who push straight to the front of the queue. start learning
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if someone gets under your skin, they annoy you, especially by the way they behave
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We took the children to the park so they could let off steam before the long car journey. start learning
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to get rid of your anger, excitement or energy in a way that does not harm anyone by doing something active
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Anderson lashed out at the media. start learning
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to suddenly speak angrily to someone or criticise someone angrily
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It is far better to cry than to bottle up your feelings. start learning
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to deliberately not allow yourself to show a strong feeling or emotion
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put a brave face on things Elena was really disappointed not to get the job, but she put a brave face on things. start learning
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to pretend that you are happy when you are really very upset
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I was very angry, but I didn’t want to make a scene at my daughter’s school. start learning
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to have a loud angry argument, especially in a public place
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get something off your chest Why don’t you tell me what happened? You might feel better if you get it off your chest. start learning
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to tell someone about something that has been worrying or annoying you for a long time, so that you feel better afterwards
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You need to take a step back from all the problems at work if you want to find a solution. start learning
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to deliberately become less closely involved in a situation
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put things into perspective I saw their suffering, and it really put my own problems into perspective. start learning
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to consider something in a sensible way by comparing it with something else
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But we calm down when see the other person's facial expression or hear the tone of their voice and realise they feel bad about making an honest mistake. start learning
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a way of expressing emotions
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start learning
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But online, that information is missing and our anger quickly gets out of hand.
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get a buzz of sth/doing sth I get a buzz out of public speaking. I got such a buzz out of seeing the kids' faces at the show. You can see what a buzz she gets from helping others. Some people get a buzz from the fact that they are recognized in the street. start learning
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to get a feeling of excitement, energy, and pleasure out of something:
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The ending will blow you away. start learning
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to surprise or please someone very much:
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impervious to He is impervious to criticism and rational argument. start learning
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If someone is impervious to something, they are not influenced or affected by something:
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I worked as a temp for a while before I got my first permanent job. Many companies are relying more on temps and part-timers. start learning
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a person employed to work for a short period, especially in an office while another person is absent or when there is extra work:
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organise yourself into sth start learning
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We naturally organise ourselves into online communities with people of similar opinions.
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They've been engaged in a legal battle with the council for several months. start learning
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resist the temptation to do something start learning
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So when we happen to see a member of our own community engaged in a conflict with an outsider, it's hard to resist the temptation to defend your own side.
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He was gutted when she finished the relationship. start learning
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extremely disappointed and unhappy:
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The project spiraled out of control, running $300 million over budget. There is a great deal of evidence that internet gambling is spiralling rapidly out of control. start learning
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spiral out of controlif a situation spirals out of control, it becomes impossible to control because one bad event causes another:
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start learning
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When you post a complaint on a company's social media feed, you naturally expect an instant response.
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When I saw him out at a club the next night, he blanked me. Without even discussing it, we all turned our backs on her and blanked her. start learning
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to ignore someone or pretend that you have not seen them or do not know them:
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This kind of situation could transform your mild irritation into intense fury start learning
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to change completely the appearance or character of something or someone, especially so that that thing or person is improved:
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start learning
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So we take offence, even if, the writerturns out to have had a completely different target in mind
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Any decrease in tourism could have serious repercussions for the local economy. President Kennedy's assassination had far-reaching repercussions. start learning
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the effect that an action, event, or decision has on something, especially a bad effect:
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But the vast majority of online rage and abuse is committed by normal people who wouldn't dream of upsetting others in real life. start learning
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I was frightened because I had never seen him in such a rage before. start learning
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start learning
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dreams won´t come true ´bhnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm dreams won't come true
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I’m fed up of getting phone calls from pushy salesmen. start learning
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someone who is pushy does everything they can to get what they want from other people – used to show disapproval
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Those party decorations look really tacky. start learning
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if something is tacky, it looks cheap or badly made, and shows poor taste
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I’ve had glowing reports from Neil about your work. start learning
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She had saved a modest amount of money. start learning
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not very great, big or expensive
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The government has introduced a tax on sugary drinks. start learning
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containing sugar, or tasting like sugar
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Samir’s adoring aunt bought him this train set. start learning
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liking and admiring someone very much
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House prices in this area are outrageous. start learning
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Some die-hard film photographers refuse to use a digital camera. start learning
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a die-hard person opposes change and refuses to accept new ideas
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I try to stay fit, but I’m not obsessive about it. start learning
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thinking or worrying about something all the time, so that you do not think about other things enough – used to show disapproval
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I had to sit next to a screaming baby for an eight-hour flight. start learning
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making a loud high noise with your voice because you are hurt, frightened, excited etc.
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His idea got only a lukewarm response from the committee. start learning
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not showing much interest or excitement
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His new musical received gushing praise from the New York critics. start learning
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expressing praise, pleasure etc. in a way that other people think is too strong
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Good information is essential if people are to make informed choices about services. start learning
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an informed decision etc. is based on knowledge of a subject or situation
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He supplements his meagre income by working on Saturdays. start learning
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a meagre amount of food, money etc. is too small and is much less than you need
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Moderate exercise, such as walking, is recommended. start learning
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not very large or very small, not very fast or very slow etc.
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He has learned a phenomenal amount in the last two years. start learning
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What this country needs is firm leadership. start learning
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showing in the way that you behave or speak that you are the person in control and that you are not likely to change your answer, belief etc.
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His doting big sister used to do everything for him. start learning
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loving someone very much, and show this by your actions
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My family were very supportive while I was doing my exams. start learning
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giving help or encouragement, especially to someone who is in a difficult situation
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There are some good educational board games available. start learning
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teaching you something you did not know before
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They keep their boat in a flimsy wooden building. start learning
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something that is flimsy is not strong or well-made, and will break easily
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Bamboo is an excellent building material: cheap, sustainable and surprisingly durable. start learning
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staying in good condition for a long time, even if used a lot
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The cookbook contains many simple yet highly nutritious meals. start learning
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food that is nutritious is full of the natural substances that your body needs to stay healthy or to grow properly
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Sushi is served in convenient bite-size pieces. start learning
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small enough to put into your mouth to eat
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Processed foods often contain artificial colourings and flavourings. start learning
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processed food has substances added to it before it is sold, in order to preserve it, improve its colour etc.
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Blind rage took hold of him. start learning
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used to describe strong feelings that you cannot control
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Her driving ambition led to her becoming CEO of the company at only 35 years of age. start learning
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driving ambition is a very great desire to do or achieve something
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Jack has a consuming hatred for cats. start learning
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a consuming feeling is so strong that you think of little else
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The economic recovery is just beginning to take hold now. start learning
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take holdto become strong; to be established:
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Her not-so-subtle approach was simply to tell him she didn’t love him any more. start learning
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direct; easily noticed or understood
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Our house will be fully paid-for next year, when our mortgage comes to an end. start learning
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used to describe something you have given money to buy
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Their team put in a better-than-expected performance and the result was two goals all. start learning
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not as bad as you thought it was going to be
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Stella has a take-it-or-leave it attitude towards selling her car. start learning
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used to show that someone doesn’t care about the outcome
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Our local Indian restaurant has an all-you-can-eat buffet every Sunday lunchtime. start learning
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used by restaurants to describe a meal with a fixed price, and with no limit on how much food you eat
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We’ve been offered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend two months in New Zealand. start learning
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used to say that something is very rare
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Despite last night’s scare, journalists showed a business-as-usual attitude to work today. start learning
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used to describe when someone or something is still working or operating normally when you think they might not be
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People attending the festival complained about the poorly-thought-out traffic control. start learning
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Their first album was quite good, but the second was very middle-of-the-road stuff. start learning
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ordinary and not new, different or exciting
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Tariq is always fun at parties, with his larger-than-life personality. start learning
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someone who is larger than life is very amusing or exciting in an attractive way
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Gabi is well-known for making off-the-cuff jokes when you least expect them. start learning
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an off-the-cuff remark, reply etc. is one that you make without thinking about it first
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Nottingham is odds-on favourite to win the championship. start learning
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used to describe the person, horse etc. that is most likely to win a race or other competition
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She’s just bought a state-of-the-art laptop. start learning
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using the most modern and recently developed methods, materials or knowledge
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It was a run-of-the-mill seminar. I didn’t really learn anything new. start learning
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not special or interesting in any way
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The charity launched a campaign to boost its ever-dwindling resources. start learning
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gradually becoming less and less or smaller and smaller
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The company is offering an across-the-board pay increase. start learning
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affecting everyone or everything in a situation or organisation
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Most of the students at the school come from well-to-do families. start learning
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rich and with a high social position
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Travel for pleasure was almost unheard of until the 19th century. start learning
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something that is unheard of is so unusual that it has not happened or been known before
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make the acquaintance of someone At the hotel, I made the acquaintance of a young American actor. start learning
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to meet someone for the first time
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As I walked onto the stage, my heart began to race and my mind went blank. start learning
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if your mind goes blank, or if you go blank, you suddenly cannot remember something
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I thought I’d pick Greg’s brains about what to take with us. start learning
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to ask someone who knows a lot about something for information and advice about it
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This game is a great ice-breaker at the beginning of a course. start learning
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something that you say or do to make people less nervous when they first meet
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Soo Jung’s arrival broke the ice and people began to talk and laugh. start learning
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to make people feel more friendly and willing to talk to each other
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When I first met Mario’s parents, there was a very frosty atmosphere. start learning
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a frosty atmosphere describes an unfriendly situation
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Her younger brother hovered in the background watching us. start learning
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to stay nervously in the same place, especially because you are waiting for something or are not certain what to do
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She was eager to mingle with the other guests. start learning
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if you mingle at a party or event, you move around the room and talk to lots of different people
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My parents first met when a mutual acquaintance invited them both to dinner. start learning
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someone that two people both know
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exchange a few pleasantries We exchanged a few pleasantries while we were waiting for the lecture to begin. start learning
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to say things that you say to someone in order to be polite, but which are not very important
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We stood around making small talk in the hotel lobby. start learning
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to take part in polite friendly conversation about unimportant subjects
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The downward trend in population growth was not seen as a problem. start learning
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a general tendency for something to decrease
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He succeeded in reversing the downward trend of the railway’s fortunes. start learning
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to make something start to change back
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The region reached a tipping point when the largest coal mine closed. start learning
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the moment when one particular result of a process becomes the most likely one, after a period when the result is not sure
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The stormy weather looks set to continue into next week. start learning
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to seem likely not to stop
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The treatment of diabetes passed a significant milestone with the introduction of smartwatch monitors. start learning
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to go past a very important event in the development of something
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mark the start of a new era These elections marked the start of a new democratic era. start learning
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to be a sign of an important change
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Business confidence is on the up. start learning
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to be improving or increasing
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The city reverted to its former name of St Petersburg. start learning
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to change back to a situation that existed in the past
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Larger corporations are setting the trend for better paternity benefits. start learning
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to start doing something that other people copy
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Early results of trials of the new vaccine are looking promising. start learning
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to show signs of being successful or good in the future
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get on board with something The wind turbine plan will go ahead if local farmers get on board with the idea. start learning
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to agree with and accept something
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Would the sales department be willing to accept a lower bonus this year? start learning
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Briggs was completely at odds with his colleagues. start learning
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So far, the suggestion for a new curriculum has received some pushback from headteachers. start learning
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to ɡet a neɡative response (about a proposed chanɡe)
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come up against some resistance The new system for flexible working hours has come up against some resistance from employees. start learning
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to get a negative response
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Teachers need to be open to children’s ideas. start learning
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to be willing to consider or accept something new
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take issue with something It is difficult to take issue with his analysis. start learning
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to disagree or argue with someone about something
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Sarah was loath to tell her mother what had happened. start learning
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to be unwilling to do something
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I would be happy to go along with the idea of advertising online. start learning
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to agree with or support something
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meet with a lukewarm response His fundraising idea met with only a lukewarm response from the committee. start learning
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to receive little interest or excitement
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It is not unusual to be offered a zero-hours contract in the catering industry. start learning
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a zero-hour contract is one in which a worker may or may not be given any work in a week but must be available for work, and is only paid for the hours they work
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If you have a problem, the first person to speak to is your line manager. start learning
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someone who is one level higher in rank than you in a company and is in charge of your work
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If we work on Saturday morning, we’ll be given extra time off in lieu of payment. start learning
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Economists use universal basic income for the purposes of analysis, but it is unlikely that it will ever become a reality. start learning
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a theoretical system of paying a sum of money to every individual in a given country or region, which is not dependent on work
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The company was cutting costs, so I was scared I’d get the push. start learning
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if your employer gives you the push, they make you leave your job
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The finance director pulled rank and refused to authorise the purchase order. start learning
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to use your authority over someone to make them do what you want, especially unfairly
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Examples of gross misconduct are theft, damage to property or drunkenness during working hours. start learning
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extremely bad behaviour or performance by an employee that may lead to being told to leave their job
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Employees will get two weeks of severance pay for every year of service. start learning
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money that you get when you have to leave a company because your employer no longer has a job for you
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The quality control process includes annual staff appraisals. start learning
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a meeting between a manager and an employee to discuss the quality of the employee’s work and areas for future progress
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The disciplinary procedure resulted in two doctors losing their jobs. start learning
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a process relating to the punishment of someone who has not obeyed rules
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I wish the head of our department would get on with her own work and stop trying to micro-manage all the sales executives. start learning
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to organise and control all the details of another person’s work in a way that they think is annoying
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Teaching assistants are usually paid pro rata, to take account of the school holidays. start learning
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a payment or share that is calculated pro rata is calculated according to how much of something is used, how much work is done etc.
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I’ve been having a few problems with my car. start learning
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a situation that causes difficulties
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Many smaller radio stations broadcast on archaic equipment. start learning
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old-fashioned and needing to be replaced
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We moved house yesterday, so everything is still quite chaotic. start learning
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a chaotic situation is one in which everything is happening in a confused way
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He’s finding it difficult to get a job. start learning
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hard to do, understand or deal with
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A series of penny-pinching governments have damaged the country’s health service. start learning
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unwilling to spend or give money
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Carla has a wonderful collection of vintage motorbikes. start learning
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A small car is more economical to run. start learning
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using money, time, goods etc. carefully and without wasting any
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The minister used his speech to highlight the issue of global warming. start learning
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a subject or problem that is often discussed or argued about, especially a social or political matter that affects the interests of a lot of people
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There’s a very relaxed atmosphere in the school. start learning
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a situation that is relaxed is comfortable and informal
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Teaching young children is a challenging and rewarding job. start learning
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difficult in an interesting or enjoyable way
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Homeworkers are sometimes exploited by employers. start learning
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to treat (someone) unfairly by asking them to do things for you, but giving them very little in return
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The factory employs over 2,000 people. start learning
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to pay (someone) to work for you
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The hotel is situated next to the lively bustling port. start learning
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a place or situation that is lively is exciting because a lot of things are happening
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The town centre often gets quite rowdy on a Friday night. start learning
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a rowdy place such as a bar is full of noisy people, often behaving badly
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We had dinner in a charming little Italian restaurant. start learning
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very pleasing or attractive
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The warehouse was very run-down, with broken windows and a leaking roof. start learning
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a building or area that is run-down is in very bad condition
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A mob of a few hundred demonstrators was blocking the main street. start learning
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a large noisy crowd, especially one that is angry and violent
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A large crowd had gathered to watch the procession go past. start learning
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a large group of people who have gathered together to do something, for example to watch something or protest about something
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Property is cheaper in Spain than here. start learning
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not at all expensive, or lower in price than you expected
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This is a top-quality TV at a very affordable price. start learning
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cheap enough for most people to afford
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You need to be firm with her or she’ll try to take advantage of you. start learning
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showing in the way that you behave or speak that you are the person in control and that you are not likely to change your answer, belief etc.
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Harsh measures were taken against the protesters. start learning
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Heavy traffic is causing delays on the motorway. start learning
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to make something happen, especially something bad
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Violent crime is rife in our inner cities. start learning
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if something bad or unpleasant is rife, it is very common
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The protesters were hell bent on destroying the statues. start learning
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to be very determined to do something, especially something that other people do not approve of
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The article warns of impending changes in government legislation. start learning
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an impending event or situation, especially an unpleasant one, is going to happen very soon
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Less crime is committed by women than men. start learning
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to do something wrong or illegal
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The new well provides the village with an abundant supply of fresh water. start learning
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something that is abundant exists or is available in large quantities so that there is more than enough
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Tourism generates income for local communities. start learning
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to produce or cause something
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be committed to doing something Both sides claim to be fully committed to making the peace process succeed. start learning
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to be willing to work very hard at something
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Surgeons performed an emergency operation. start learning
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to do (something), especially something difficult or useful
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The outcome of the upcoming election is by no means certain. start learning
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It was almost impossible to explain my point of view because people kept butting in. start learning
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to interrupt a conversation, often rudely
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have a heart-to-heart with someone Why don’t you have a heart-to-heart with him and sort out your problems? start learning
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to hold a conversation in which two people say honestly and sincerely what they really feel about something
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We sat around having a chit chat while we waited for the internet connection to be restored. start learning
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to hold a conversation about things that are not very important
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The minister ended his speech by reiterating the most important points. start learning
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to repeat (a statement or opinion) in order to make your meaning as clear as possible
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I got tired of him going on about all his problems. start learning
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to keep talking about something, in a way that is boring or annoying
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Let’s stay with the topic and not go off on a tangent. start learning
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to suddenly start thinking or talking about a subject that is only slightly related, or not related at all, to the original subject
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We still have to get together and thrash out the details. start learning
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to discuss something thoroughly with someone until you find an answer, reach an agreement or decide on something
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I’m fed up with you two talking shop. We were supposed to be having a coffee and a chat! start learning
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to talk about things that are related to your work, especially in a way that other people find boring
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If there’s a problem, a sensitive child is likely just to clam up. start learning
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to suddenly stop talking, especially when you are nervous or shy
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Whenever I see my cousins, we immediately start up the usual easy banter. start learning
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friendly conversation in which people make a lot of jokes with, and amusing remarks about, each other
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I’m not sure whether I dare broach the subject of his latest film – it wasn’t a huge success. start learning
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to mention a subject that may be embarrassing or unpleasant or cause an argument
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I would like a chance to confer with my colleagues before giving you my final answer. start learning
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to discuss something with other people, so that everyone can express their opinions and decide on something
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It had never occurred to Tariq that he might lose his job. start learning
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if an idea or a thought occurs to you, it suddenly comes into your mind
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Two questions spring to mind, now that you’ve mentioned going on holiday. start learning
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if someone or something springs to mind, you immediately think of them
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It dawned on me that Lara had been right all along. start learning
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if a fact dawns on you, you realise it for the first time
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bounce a few ideas around Let’s bounce a few ideas around and see if we can come up with a plan for the festival. start learning
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to talk about your ideas with someone
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Dex had a bright idea about our advertising strategy. start learning
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to come up with a very clever idea
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be just a passing thought You don’t have to invite them ... it was just a passing thought. start learning
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a passing thought or feeling is short and not very serious
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There seems to be a problem with every plan we’ve discussed; I’m out of ideas now! start learning
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to have no inspiration or solutions left
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What gave you the idea for the book? start learning
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to provide a plan or suggestion for a possible course of action, especially one that you think of suddenly
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I’ve had a brainwave! Let’s go this weekend instead. start learning
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to have a sudden clever idea
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The charity has used studies of the macroeconomics of several west African countries to create this model. start learning
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the study of large economic systems such as those of a whole country or area of the world
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The microeconomics of the property sector reflects the state of the national economy. start learning
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the study of small economic systems that are part of national or international systems
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Macrobiology is an important topic in this term’s module about ecosystems. start learning
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the study of organisms that can be seen without any optical instrument
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The study of bacteria and how they develop is a valuable field within microbiology. start learning
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the scientific study of very small living things which can only be seen through a microscope
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Economic uncertainty is increasing at macro level: there are fears of a worldwide recession. start learning
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a way of considering a whole system rather than particular parts of it
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Let’s consider the offenders at micro level, within their usual social setting. start learning
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a way of considering a very specific part of a system
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My mother-in-law is hypercritical: she complains even when we turn up five minutes late. start learning
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too eager to criticise other people and things, especially about small details
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It’s hypocritical of Sue to go to Tom’s party when she can’t stand him. start learning
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behaving in a way that is different from what you claim to believe
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The doctor told Jorge that losing weight might help reduce his hypertension. start learning
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a medical condition in which your blood pressure is too high
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Patients who suffer from hypotension are more prone to faint. start learning
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a medical condition in which your blood pressure is too low
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The organisation regulates international trade. start learning
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relating to or involving more than one nation
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Trade may worsen intranational inequality, leading to increased stress and adverse impacts on mortality. start learning
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relating to or involving a single nation
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We do most of our shopping on the internet. start learning
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a computer system that allows millions of computer users around the world to exchange information
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Information about the company’s updated data protection policy will be circulated via the intranet. start learning
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a computer network used for exchanging or seeing information within a company
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The police arrested them on the interstate highway, just before they crossed into Arizona. start learning
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The governor announced that intrastate travel would be restricted due to the floods. start learning
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We need to reduce the amount of salt in our diet. start learning
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to make (something) smaller or less in size, amount or price
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The factory produces an incredible 100 cars per hour. start learning
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to make, write etc. (something) to be bought, used or enjoyed by people; to grow (something) or make it naturally
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Zara rejected her brother’s offer of help. start learning
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to refuse to accept, believe in or agree with (something)
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Total expenditure is projected to rise by 25%. start learning
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to calculate what something will be in the future, using the information you have now
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These groups must renounce violence if there is to be progress towards peace. start learning
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to publicly say or show that you no longer believe in (something), or will no longer behave in a particular way
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How do you pronounce your name? start learning
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to make the sound of (a letter, word etc.), especially in the correct way
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The two countries signed a bilateral agreement. start learning
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involving two groups or nations
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The peace talks eventually resulted in a multilateral treaty. start learning
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involving several different countries or groups
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The complicated multipart devices are assembled in two separate factories. start learning
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made up of more than one part
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The bipolar space race developed into international collaboration. start learning
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involving two opposing countries, groups etc.
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Over the years, the festival has become more international and now reflects today’s multipolar and multicultural world. start learning
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divided in several ways or directions
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Louis is virtually bilingual in Dutch and German. start learning
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using, speaking or written in two different languages
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The report recommended multilingual education in schools. start learning
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using, speaking or written in several different languages
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Footballers are often criticised for being overpaid, but their careers are usually very short. start learning
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given more money for a job than you deserve
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Postal workers are threatening to strike on the basis of being underpaid. start learning
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earning less money than you deserve for your work
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Many overachievers suffer from stress in their early thirties. start learning
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someone who works very hard to be successful, and is very unhappy if they do not achieve everything they want to
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The school runs an after-school club to support underachievers with their homework. start learning
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someone who does not do as well at school or at work as they could do if they worked harder
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I’ve always felt he is overrated as an actor. start learning
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not as good or important as some people think or say
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You really should read this novel; I think it’s underrated by the critics. start learning
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better than people think or say
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start learning
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I prefer lamb a little underdone. start learning
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While in hospital, Jimal took stock of his life. start learning
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to think carefully about the things that have happened in a situation in order to decide what to do next
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The flavour was hard to pin down. start learning
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to understand something clearly or be able to describe it exactly
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If we can’t identify the root cause of the problem, we’re never going to be able to resolve it. start learning
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the main cause of a problem
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He’s mulling over the proposals before making any changes. start learning
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to think about a problem, plan etc. for a long time before making a decision
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She had misinterpreted his silence as anger. start learning
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to not understand the correct meaning of something that someone says or does, or of facts that you are considering
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He seemed to have an intuitive awareness of how I felt. start learning
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an intuitive idea is based on a feeling rather than on knowledge or facts
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Employees get together and brainstorm ideas, some of which get developed and some don’t. start learning
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to have a discussion or meeting with other people at work, to suggest a lot of ideas for an activity or for solving a problem
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Never underestimate the power of the press. start learning
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to think or guess that something is smaller, cheaper, easier etc. than it really is
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I have been wrestling with this problem for quite some time. start learning
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to try to understand or find a solution to a difficult problem
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I’ve been at work for ten hours now and I’m starting to get befuddled. start learning
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to become completely confused
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We’ve been going round in circles ever since the interviews. Which candidate is best for the job? start learning
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to think or argue about something without deciding anything or making progress
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Perplexed investors tried to work out what the deal meant. start learning
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confused and worried by something that you do not understand
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The question left me completely baffled. start learning
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if something baffles you, you cannot understand or explain it at all
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The jury deliberated for four days before acquitting him. start learning
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to think about something very carefully
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He sat alone, ruminating on the injustice of the world. start learning
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to think carefully and deeply about something
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He continued to ponder the problem as he walked home. start learning
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to spend time thinking carefully and seriously about (a problem, a difficult question or something that has happened)
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She immediately zeroed in on the weak point in his argument. start learning
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to direct all your attention towards (a particular person or thing)
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Investigators hope to shed light on what started the fire. start learning
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to make (something) easier to understand, by providing new or better information
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Sam’s behaviour could easily be misconstrued: he gets aggressive when he is frightened. start learning
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to misunderstand (something that someone has said or done)
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I think Kim misread the situation: they were warning her, not threatening her. start learning
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to make a wrong judgement about a person or situation
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I racked my brains, trying to remember his name. start learning
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to try very hard to remember or think of something
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Molly’s upstairs grappling with her maths homework. start learning
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to try hard to deal with or understand something difficult
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We offer impartial advice on tax and insurance. start learning
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not involved in a particular situation, and therefore able to give a fair opinion or piece of advice
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It’s just not realistic to expect a promotion so soon. start learning
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judging and dealing with situations in a practical way according to what is actually possible rather than what you would like to happen
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He refused to disclose the identity of the politician. start learning
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to make something publicly known, especially after it has been kept secret
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Apart from an unsubstantiated allegation of fraud ten years ago, he has a clean record. start learning
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The evidence seemed very insubstantial until the main witness spoke. start learning
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not solid, large, strong or definite
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The police are examining CCTV footage to try to trace Jackson’s movements that night. start learning
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film or video showing a particular event
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The four accused men all deny murder. start learning
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the crime of deliberately killing someone
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The president narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. start learning
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the act of murdering an important person
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The campaign was accused of character assassination because of its negative adverts. start learning
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an unfair attack on someone’s character
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It would be bending the truth to say Rua is an experienced doctor: she’s in her last year of medical school. start learning
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to say something that is not completely true
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He was unable to give a credible explanation for his behaviour. start learning
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deserving or able to be believed or trusted
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She did a creditable job of impersonating the singer. start learning
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deserving praise or approval
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Was the prime minister’s much-reported illness a publicity stunt? start learning
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something that is only done to get publicity
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One possible interpretation is that they want you to resign. start learning
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the way in which someone explains or understands an event, information, someone’s actions etc.
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Military leaders are seeking to improve the interplay between their troops and civilian populations. start learning
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the way in which two people or things affect each other
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The president has been fully briefed on the current situation at the airport. start learning
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to give (someone) all the information about a situation that they will need
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It was disclosed that £3.5 million was needed to modernise the building. start learning
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to make (something) publicly known, especially after it has been kept secret
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García offered little evidence to substantiate his claims. start learning
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to prove the truth of (something that someone has said, claimed etc.)
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These statistics grossly misrepresent the reality. start learning
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to deliberately give a wrong description of (someone’s opinions or of a situation)
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This article is a blatant attempt to smear the party leadership. start learning
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to tell an untrue story about (someone important) in order to make people lose respect for them – used especially in newspapers
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The Education Secretary is planning to pitch the new curriculum to headteachers at the conference. start learning
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to present an idea or concept to someone in a way that they will accept it
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to ask questions in order to find things out, especially things that other people do not want you to know start learning
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to ask questions in order to find things out, especially things that other people do not want you to know
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The enquiry unearthed some disturbing evidence. start learning
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to find (information or the truth about something or someone)
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The report exposes the weaknesses of modern medical practice. start learning
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to show the truth about (someone or something), especially when it is bad
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Always proofread your assignments carefully before submitting them. start learning
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to read through (something that is written or printed) in order to correct any mistakes in it
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The media often sensationalise crime. start learning
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to deliberately make (something) seem as strange, exciting or shocking as possible – used to show disapproval
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He accused other scientists of plagiarising his research. start learning
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to take words or ideas from another person’s work and use them in your work, without stating that they are not your own
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The reason for the CEO’s resignation is now as clear as day. start learning
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very easy to see or understand
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put your finger on something There was something about the man that worried Sutton, but he couldn’t put his finger on it. start learning
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to know or be able to explain exactly what is wrong, different or unusual about a situation
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The instructions on the packet are crystal clear. start learning
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very easy to see or understand
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The document, written in plain English, tells you about your new policy. start learning
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in clear and simple words, without using technical language
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The instructions for my new smartwatch are as clear as mud. start learning
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used humorously to say that something is very difficult to understand
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Voters suspected a hidden political agenda. start learning
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the secret purpose behind a plan or activity that you do not tell other people about – used to show disapproval
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He had a panic attack while he was waitinɡ to board the plane. start learning
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a sudden strong feeling of fear or nervousness that makes you unable to think clearly or behave sensibly
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His son’s death was the most traumatic event in Marek’s life. start learning
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a traumatic experience is so shocking and upsetting that it affects you for a long time
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bring someone out in a cold sweat Drops in stock market prices are bringing investors out in a cold sweat. start learning
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to make someone very nervous or frightened
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Asking the bank for a loan is a daunting prospect. start learning
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a particular event which will probably or definitely happen in the future, that is frightening in a way that makes you feel less confident
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My stomach was churning on the day of the exam. start learning
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if your stomach churns, you feel sick because you are nervous or frightened
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Stella can’t concentrate on her work; her fear of flying has a debilitating effect on her. start learning
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get a buzz out of something I get a buzz out of riding a powerful motorbike. start learning
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to get a strong feeling of excitement, pleasure or success from doing something
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The feeling of power gave me such a rush. start learning
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a sudden strong, usually pleasant feeling that you get from taking a drug or from doing something exciting
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She enjoyed the exhilaration of jet-skiing. start learning
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a feeling of being happy, excited and full of energy
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Even though I’ve been acting for years, I still get a thrill out of going on stage. start learning
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a sudden strong feeling of excitement and pleasure, or the thing that makes you feel this
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Jerry’s quite self-conscious about the scar on his face. start learning
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worried and embarrassed about what you look like or what other people think of you
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Self-contained flats are available to all postgraduates. start learning
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a self-contained flat has its own kitchen and bathroom
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It took a lot of self-control to not let the children see how angry I was. start learning
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the ability to behave calmly and sensibly even when you feel very excited, angry etc.
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Doug is a quiet, self-effacing man so he asked his daughter to collect the award on his behalf. start learning
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not wanting to attract attention to yourself or your achievements
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Playing a sport can boost a teenager’s self-esteem. start learning
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the feeling of being satisfied with your own abilities, and that you deserve to be liked or respected
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The TV controls are pretty self-explanatory. start learning
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clear and easy to understand without needing any more explanation
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It feels self-indulgent spending so much on a pair of shoes. start learning
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allowing yourself to have or do things that you enjoy but do not need, especially if you do this too often
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Stress is often self-inflicted. start learning
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self-inflicted pain, problems, illnesses etc. are those you have caused yourself
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My cousin had become a self-made millionaire by the time she was 35. start learning
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a self-made man or woman has become successful and rich by their own efforts, not by having money given to them
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There was a note of self-pity in his voice when he gave his farewell speech. start learning
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the feeling of being sad and depressed because you think that something unfair or unpleasant has happened to you – used to show disapproval
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According to the report, poor health and poverty are self-reinforcing problems. start learning
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strengthening your own existing feelings, behaviour or opinions
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Our aim is to teach our son to become an independent self-reliant adult. start learning
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able to do or decide things by yourself, without depending on the help or advice of other people
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Tadz is a vegetarian, but she’s not at all self-righteous about it. start learning
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proudly sure that your beliefs, attitudes and morals are good and right, in a way that annoys other people – used to show disapproval
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Many parents are self-sacrificing when it’s a question of their children’s needs. start learning
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deciding not to do or have something you want or need, in order to help someone else
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He was caring for his parents out of a sense of duty rather than love. start learning
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a feeling that you have to do something because it is morally or legally right
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She’s well qualified but has no relevant prior work experience. start learning
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the previous experience you have had of working in a particular type of job
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My son and his friends are being charged an exorbitant rent for their student flat – and the shower doesn’t even work! start learning
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an exorbitant rent (= money paid to live in a house or room that belongs to someone else, or to use something that belongs to someone else) is much higher than it should be
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The charity puts students and elderly people in touch with each other, for mutual support and friendship. start learning
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mutual support is support that two or more people give each other
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Older people are an untapped resource in the employment market. start learning
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something useful that is available but has not yet been used
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I’m saving money on a regular basis. start learning
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at the same time each day, week, month etc., or often
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Now that Ted is on his own, he struggles with household chores such as washing and ironing clothes. start learning
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small jobs that you have to do regularly in a home, especially work that you do to keep a house clean
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have a profound impact on something Population growth has a profound impact on world food demand. start learning
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to have a very important or strong effect or influence on something
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There was muted agreement from most of the people in the room. start learning
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a muted reaction to something is not expressed strongly
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Istanbul is a vibrant, fascinating city. start learning
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full of activity or energy in a way that is exciting and attractive
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Russia has a rich literary tradition. start learning
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full of interesting or important features, facts, events or ideas
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I caught a fleeting glimpse of them as they drove past. start learning
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lasting for only a short time
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Some of the photos were so fuzzy it was hard to tell who was who. start learning
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if a sound or picture is fuzzy, it is unclear
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He had a vivid picture of her in his mind. start learning
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vivid memories, dreams, descriptions etc. are so clear that they seem real
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When the wind is from the west, we often get obnoxious odours from the paper factory. start learning
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a smell, especially an unpleasant one
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At the weekend, if Arthur gets up before me, I wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee. start learning
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I still have a crystal-clear memory of the day our eldest son was born. start learning
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She showed me a few blurry photos of their holiday. start learning
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difficult to see because the edges are not clear
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Cook the pastry until it is crisp and golden. start learning
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food that is crisp is pleasantly hard or firm when you bite it; weather that is crisp is cold and dry
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I could just make out the faint outline of the cliffs. start learning
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difficult to see, hear, smell etc.
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Cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. start learning
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(appearing to be) very light and soft to touch
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Temperatures again have been in the 80s, and the humidity makes the hills look hazy. start learning
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air that is hazy is not clear because there is a lot of smoke, dust or mist in it
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All the police have to go on is a grainy, indistinct video clip. start learning
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an indistinct sound, image or memory cannot be seen, heard or remembered clearly
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They serve a rich, mellow blend of coffee. start learning
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mellow wine or fruit has a smooth pleasant taste
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There was a metallic grey van parked outside the hotel. start learning
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a metallic noise sounds like pieces of metal hitting each other; a metallic colour shines like metal
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We heard muffled shouts and screams from the bar below. start learning
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muffled sounds cannot be heard clearly, for example because they come from behind a door or wall
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The library was full of musty old books which no one wanted to read. start learning
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a musty room, house or object has an unpleasant smell, because it is old and has not had any fresh air for a long time
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The onion smell still lingered, sharp and pungent. start learning
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having a strong taste or smell
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Billy's voice had a deep, resonant tone that was a pleasure to hear. start learning
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a resonant sound is deep, loud and clear, and continues for a long time
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You can use this herb to flavour almost any savoury dish. start learning
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a savoury smell or taste is strong and pleasant but is not sweet
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‘That’s not true,’ she protested in a shrill voice. start learning
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a shrill sound is very high and unpleasant
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The treatment will leave your hair feeling soft and silky. start learning
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soft, smooth, and shiny like silk; a silky voice is gentle, and is used especially when trying to persuade someone to do something
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The chicken was golden and crispy on the outside and juicy and succulent inside. start learning
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Do you prefer plain and smooth or textured wallpaper? start learning
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having a surface that is not smooth
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Horns blared in the street outside. start learning
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to make a very loud unpleasant noise
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We were walking through the forest at night when we heard a bloodcurdling howl. start learning
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Little Florence’s blotchy painting of a tiger is still on our fridge. start learning
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covered in coloured marks
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The rug in the classroom is rather bristly, so the children don’t like sitting on it. start learning
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bristly hair is short and stiff
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The paper was brown and crinkly at the edges. start learning
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having a lot of small lines or folds
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start learning
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if a metal object clanks, it makes a loud heavy sound
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The cups clattered as he pushed the tea trolley through the hospital ward. start learning
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if heavy hard objects clatter, or if you clatter them, they make a loud unpleasant noise
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There was an ear-splitting crack as the branch broke. start learning
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There was a pile of fleecy white towels in the hotel bathroom. start learning
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soft and woolly, or looking soft and woolly
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Rob served chicken with a piquant wild mushroom sauce. start learning
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having a pleasantly spicy taste
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It was a starlit night so we went for a walk along the beach. start learning
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made brighter by light from the stars
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She was pale and willowy, with green eyes. start learning
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After a bitter political fight, a compromise was finally reached. start learning
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to achieve an agreement after everyone involved accepts less than what they wanted at first
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In any relationship there has to be some give and take. start learning
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a willingness between two people or groups to understand each other, and to let each other have or do some of the things they want
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make a concession on something The UAE made some concessions on the price of oil. start learning
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to allow someone to have something in order to end an argument or a disagreement
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Having made up his mind to resign, he stuck to his guns and refused the offer of increased pay. start learning
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to refuse to change your mind about something, even though other people are trying to persuade you that you are wrong
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Lori dug her heels in and refused to pay the bill. start learning
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to refuse to do something in spite of other people’s efforts to persuade you
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OK, let’s split the difference: I’ll give you £25. start learning
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to agree on an amount that is exactly between two amounts that have been mentioned
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The union is using the issues regarding overtime as a bargaining chip in the wider pay negotiations. start learning
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something that one person or group in a business deal or political agreement has, that can be used to gain an advantage in the deal
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Politicians and student unions have found a great deal of common ground on this issue. start learning
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to identify facts, features or beliefs that are shared by people or things that are very different
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The health department has made a last-ditch effort to break the deadlock in talks regarding nurses’ pay. start learning
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to finally resolve a disagreement which could not be settled
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The team continues its groundbreaking research into the causes of leukaemia. start learning
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groundbreaking work involves making new discoveries, using new methods etc.
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The country carried out far-reaching reforms to modernise its economy. start learning
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having a great influence or effect
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Firefighters made a futile attempt to save the paintings from the flames. start learning
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actions that are futile are useless because they have no chance of being successful
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His parents had made him feel worthless. start learning
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a worthless person has no good qualities or useful skills
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Parents who stay at home and look after children often feel undervalued. start learning
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made to feel less important or valuable than you really are
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The two students have been indispensable – we wouldn’t have managed to run the farm this summer without them. start learning
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someone who is indispensable is so important or useful that it is impossible to manage without them
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These negotiations are pivotal to the success of the country. start learning
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more important than anything else in a situation, system etc.
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The jury’s verdict was noteworthy for a number of reasons. start learning
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important or interesting enough to deserve your attention
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The damage done to his property was negligible. start learning
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too slight or unimportant to have any effect
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If you sign a document, it is wholly immaterial whether you have read it carefully or not. start learning
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not important in a particular situation
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The accident taught him an important lesson. start learning
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an important event, decision, problem etc. has a big effect or influence on people’s lives or on events in the future
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Advertising is a key element in the success of a product. start learning
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very important or necessary
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There was an interview with a politician who only had a peripheral role in the negotiations. start learning
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not as important as other things or people in a particular activity, idea or situation
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The film was overrated by the media. The first one in the trilogy was much better. start learning
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not as good or important as some people think or say
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He was totally blind to his childrenˈs faults. start learning
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completely failing to notice or realise something
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The waste bins were overflowing with plastic cups. start learning
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so full that the liquid or material inside flows over the edges
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The romance is peripheral to the main plot of the film. start learning
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not as important as other things or people in (a particular activity, idea or situation)
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These measures are vital to national security. start learning
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extremely important and necessary for (something to succeed or exist)
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France is famous for its cheese. start learning
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known about by many people in many places because of (a particular feature)
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The studio’s make-up artist is superfluous to requirements, because the actor has brought her own. start learning
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The plane is meant to be invisible to radar. start learning
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something that is invisible to someone cannot be seen by that person
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A lot of the patients are now free from symptoms. start learning
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not suffering from (something)
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I always find the sound of a solo saxophone reminiscent of my student days in Vienna. start learning
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reminding you of (something)
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He was lacking in confidence. start learning
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not having enough of (something) or any of it
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Some plants are very prone to disease. start learning
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likely to do (something) or suffer from (something), especially something bad or harmful
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Further investment is contingent upon the company’s performance. start learning
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depending on (something that may happen in the future)
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Dad was engrossed in the paper and didn’t notice that Billy had spilled his cereal everywhere. start learning
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so interested in (something) that you do not notice anything else
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Students on a part-time course are not eligible for a loan. start learning
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someone who is eligible for something is able or allowed to do it, for example because they are the right age
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She’s resigned to spending the holiday on her own. start learning
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calmly accepting (a situation that is bad, but that cannot be changed)
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His promises don’t count for much. start learning
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to be important or valuable
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Older people are more susceptible to infections. start learning
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likely to suffer from (a particular illness) or be affected by (a particular problem)
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acquaint someone with something You need to acquaint the police with the facts. start learning
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to give someone information about something
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Visiting my mother in hospital every day was soul-destroying. start learning
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something that is soul-destroying is extremely boring or makes you feel very unhappy
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go back to the drawing board The current system just isn’t working – we need to go back to the drawing board and start afresh. start learning
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if you go back to the drawing board, you start again with a completely new plan or idea, after the one you tried before has failed
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Nico was devastated when he didn’t get the job, but after a few days he picked himself up and started applying for other jobs. start learning
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to improve life for yourself after a bad experience
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He recorded a few albums, which all sank without trace. start learning
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if something sinks without trace, it fails quickly or no one pays attention to it
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The headteacher’s attempt at a joke fell flat. start learning
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if a joke, remark or performance falls flat, it fails to interest or amuse people
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She was fighting a losing battle to stop herself from crying. start learning
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to try to do something that you probably cannot succeed in doing
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He decided to cut his losses and sell the business. start learning
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to stop doing something that is failing, so that you do not waste any more money, time or effort
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Kitesurfing is definitely going to take Dad out of his comfort zone! start learning
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your comfort zone is the range of activities or situations that you feel happy and confident in
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Play it safe and make sure the eggs are thoroughly cooked. start learning
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throw caution to the winds Throwing caution to the winds, she swung around to face whoever was following her. start learning
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to stop worrying about danger and to take a big risk
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If you really want the job, go for it! start learning
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used to encourage someone to try to achieve something
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There’s a hair-raising car chase in the middle of the film. start learning
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frightening and dangerous in a way that is exciting
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Most law-abiding citizens would never think of travelling without a train ticket. start learning
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respectful of the law and obeying it
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Tourism has had far-reaching effects on the island’s culture. start learning
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having a great influence or effect
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Fran faced a nerve-racking wait for her test results. start learning
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a nerve-racking situation makes you feel very nervous or worried
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Keeping the house clean is a never-ending battle. start learning
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seeming to continue for a very long time
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They compete with death-defying dives from the top of the cliff. start learning
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a death-defying action is very dangerous
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Picking fruit all summer long was soul-destroying. start learning
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something that is soul-destroying is extremely boring or makes you feel very unhappy
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The view from my bedroom window was absolutely breath-taking. start learning
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very impressive, exciting or surprising
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I read a thought-provoking article about young professionals who feel isolated and lonely. start learning
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making people think seriously about a particular subject
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I took Jed to an award-winning restaurant to celebrate his new job. start learning
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used to describe something or someone that has won a prize or money
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Rugby is a character-building sport. start learning
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developing good moral qualities
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Setting up the satellite equipment will be a complex and time-consuming process. start learning
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Shifting all the rock was back-breaking work. start learning
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very physically demanding
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This mountainous region has jaw-dropping scenery. start learning
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very impressive or surprising
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His solo voyage across the Atlantic was awe-inspiring. start learning
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extremely impressive in a way that makes you feel great respect
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A mouth-watering aroma was coming from the kitchen. start learning
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food that is mouth-watering looks or smells extremely good
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Dan’s kitchen is always immaculate. start learning
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There is a refuse collection twice a week. You just need to put your bin out in front of your house. start learning
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waste material that has been thrown away
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Come on, let’s wipe that muck off your face. start learning
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dirt, mud or another sticky substance that makes something dirty
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An inspector ensures that food is prepared in hygienic conditions. start learning
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clean and likely to prevent bacteria, infections or disease from spreading
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The table needs to be scrubbed clean. start learning
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to rub (something) hard, especially with a stiff brush, in order to clean it
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Disinfect the area thoroughly once you have cleared away any food waste. start learning
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to clean something with a chemical that destroys bacteria
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Clean the ventilation ducts to remove dust and insect debris. start learning
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pieces of waste material, paper etc.
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The car has been restored to pristine condition. start learning
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something that is pristine is in the same condition as when it was first made
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The cottage had been spruced up a bit since her last visit. start learning
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to make (yourself or something) look neater and tidier
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He would walk along the beach collecting the flotsam and jetsam that had been washed ashore. start learning
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broken pieces of wood and other things from a wrecked ship, floating in the sea or scattered on the shore
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|
On the table were the remains of the evening meal. start learning
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the parts of something that are left after the rest has been destroyed or has disappeared
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By the time she had finished cleaning, the house was absolutely spotless. start learning
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Rosie won’t be able to help me paint the living room because she is otherwise engaged this weekend. start learning
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to be unable to do something because you are doing something else
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I can’t see you tomorrow – I’ll be tied up all day setting up the conference. start learning
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to be very busy, so that you cannot do anything else
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My knee’s been playing (me) up this week. start learning
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to hurt you or cause problems for you
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I felt completely out of my depth at the meeting. start learning
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to be involved in a situation or activity that is too difficult for you to understand or deal with
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Sorry, I’ll be late this evening because a problem has cropped up at work. start learning
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|
if a problem crops up, it happens or appears suddenly and in an unexpected way
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I’ve had a pretty hectic day: there were 12 unexpected bookings. start learning
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very busy or full of activity
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|
Health chiefs have called an urgent meeting to discuss the problem. start learning
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very important and needing to be dealt with immediately
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be out of someone’s hands The matter is out of our hands now; you’ll have to speak to the police about it. start learning
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to not be someone’s responsibility any more
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I don’t think we should ask Munir. He’s got a lot on his plate at the moment. start learning
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to have a lot of problems to deal with or a large amount of work to do
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Leo has just popped out to get some milk. start learning
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to go somewhere for a short time
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Georgia’s been off sick for two weeks, so she’s got an almighty backlog to get through. start learning
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to have an enormous amount of work that you need to complete, especially work that should already have been completed
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The sales department is always snowed under at this time of year. start learning
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to have more work than you can deal with
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|
Do you mind dropping me off? Isn’t it out of your way? start learning
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|
not in the same direction as someone is going
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This is an awkward moment because Mrs Parkes is on the phone. Would you mind coming back in ten minutes? start learning
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a time that is not convenient
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Sandy won’t be able to attend the dinner for personal reasons. start learning
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because of things relating to the private areas of your life
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Stress is the underlying cause of many illnesses. start learning
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|
used to describe the cause, idea, reason etc. that is the most important, although it is not easily noticed
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Improving transport links is an idea that resonates with many voters in the north of the country. start learning
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if something such as an event or a message resonates, it seems important or good to people
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How does all this tie into their long-term aims? start learning
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to be related to in some way
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The film portrays a love story set against a backdrop of war and despair. start learning
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the conditions or situation in which something happens
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The article simply echoed environmentalists’ concerns about greenhouse gases. start learning
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to repeat an idea or opinion because you agree with it
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The bird’s behaviour is thought to spring from its need to protect its young. start learning
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to be caused by something or start from something
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His appearance is bound to evoke sympathy. start learning
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to produce a strong feeling or memory in someone
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|
You're bound to forget people's names occasionally. You're bound to feel nervous about your interview. start learning
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|
certain or extremely likely to happen:
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The drop in consumer spending reflects concern about the economy. start learning
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to show or be a sign of a particular situation or feeling
|
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|
Rises in the price of fuel will have a knock-on effect on the cost of living. start learning
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a process in which everything that happens causes something else to happen
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Victor’s expression mirrored her own, both of them staring in amazement. start learning
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if one thing mirrors another, it is very similar to it and may seem to copy or represent it
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I’m going to explore the possibility of a part-time job. start learning
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to discuss or think about (something) carefully
|
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|
The programme helps young people tap into training opportunities. start learning
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|
to make as much use as possible of the ideas, experience, knowledge etc. that a group of people has
|
|
|
An austerity programme may help to restore economic stability, but it needs to be balanced by social support. start learning
|
|
when a government has a deliberate policy of trying to reduce the amount of money it spends
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|
Meals provided in schools are vital to families living on the breadline. start learning
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|
a very low level of income that allows people to eat but not have any extra things
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The report highlights that the factory workers are underpaid and downtrodden. start learning
|
|
downtrodden people are treated badly and without respect by people who have power over them
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Disaffected young people from poor neighbourhoods are not motivated to vote in the upcoming elections. start learning
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|
not satisfied with your government, leader etc., and therefore no longer loyal to them or no longer believing they can help you
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|
The supermarket encourages shoppers to donate a few extra items to the food bank. start learning
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|
a place that gives food to poor people
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|
State support should provide a safety net for the very poor. start learning
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a system or arrangement that exists to help you if you have serious problems or get into a difficult situation
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|
The appointment of the first female chief of police is an important step in shattering the glass ceiling. start learning
|
|
the attitudes and practices that prevent particular groups from getting high-level jobs, even though there are no actual laws or rules to stop them
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The company is now being investigated for discriminatory hiring practices. start learning
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|
treating a person or a group of people differently from other people, in an unfair way
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|
The make-up of the senior governing body does not reflect the multicultural society it represents. start learning
|
|
involving or including people or ideas from many different countries, races or religions
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|
Real progress cannot be made in wider society until we have addressed the problem of racism in schools. start learning
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|
unfair treatment of people, or violence against them, because they belong to a different race from your own
|
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|
Outreach centres have been set up to offer long-term support to families who lost their homes in the tsunami. start learning
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when help, advice or other services are provided for people who would not otherwise get these services easily
|
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|
Many young people in inner city districts feel marginalised by society before they even leave school. start learning
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|
if a person or a group of people is marginalised, they are regarded as unimportant and powerless in an unfair way
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|
Increasingly, empty office buildings are being occupied by squatters. start learning
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|
someone who lives in an empty building or on a piece of land without permission and without paying rent
|
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|
Do you need advice on your entitlement to state benefits? start learning
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|
the official right to have or do something, or the amount that you have a right to receive
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|
|
Sometimes we need to talk about taboo subjects, so that we can address the underlying issues. start learning
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a taboo subject, word, activity etc. is one that people avoid because it is extremely offensive or embarrassing
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Government leaflets are always full of politically correct phrases. start learning
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language, behaviour and attitudes that are politically correct are carefully chosen so that they do not offend or insult anyone
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Failure to comply with the regulations will result in prosecution. start learning
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to do what you have to do or are asked to do
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Drug dealers face severe penalties. start learning
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a very strict punishment for breaking a law, rule or legal agreement
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Measures to curb the spread of the virus were introduced too late. start learning
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to control or limit (something) in order to prevent it from having a harmful effect
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The agreement will restrict competition. start learning
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to limit or control the size, amount or range of (something)
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The company accused him of breaching his contract. start learning
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to break (a law, rule or agreement)
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An attack like that cannot go unpunished. start learning
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if someone or something bad they have done goes unpunished, they are not punished
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Unauthorised personnel are not allowed on the premises. start learning
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without official approval or permission
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He broke the law, and he will have to face the consequences. start learning
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to accept the bad results of something you have done
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The report revealed conditions in the factory that violate workers’ rights. start learning
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to disobey or do something against (an official agreement, law, principle etc.)
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The company will have to face any sanctions the regulators decide to impose. start learning
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to accept or be threatened with a form of punishment that can be used if someone disobeys a rule or law
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Charlie’s been banned from driving for a year. start learning
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to say that (something) must not be done, seen, used etc.
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He is in prison for tax evasion. start learning
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when you deliberately avoid doing something that you should do, or paying an amount of money that you should pay
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The court froze their assets. start learning
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to legally prevent money in a bank from being spent, property from being sold etc.
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In some countries the government monitors the content of all TV channels. start learning
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to carefully watch and check the ideas, facts or opinions that are contained in a speech, piece of writing, film, programme etc.
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Self-regulation has been welcomed by the charity, although it has created a lot of extra work. start learning
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used to describe a system, industry or organisation that controls itself, rather than having an independent organisation or laws to make sure that rules are obeyed
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He started his career writing advertising jingles, before moving on to composing film scores. start learning
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a short song used in advertisements
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You always see more celebrity endorsements in the lead-up to the Olympics. start learning
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a statement made by a famous person in an advertisement saying that they like and use a particular product
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The film was such a hit that toy shops all sold out of the tie-ins. start learning
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a product such as a record, book or toy that is related to a new film, TV show etc.
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There’s always an increased demand for click-and-collect before a public holiday. start learning
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the practice of ordering or buying goods on the internet and then picking them up from a shop
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Most supermarkets randomly check scan-and-shop transactions. start learning
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a system where you use a handset to scan goods as you shop, then pay for them at the checkout
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You can reach more potential customers by using viral advertising techniques. start learning
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a type of advertising used by internet companies in which computer users pass on advertising messages or images through email, sometimes without realising that they are doing this
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Have you seen the promo for this year’s Sziget festival? start learning
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a short film that advertises an event or product
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The internet has facilitated both the analysis and delivery of niche marketing. start learning
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selling a product or service that does not have many buyers, but that may provide good profits for companies that sell it
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She launched her campaign with the slogan ’Let’s keep moving’. start learning
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a short phrase that is easy to remember and is used in advertisements, or by politicians, organisations etc.
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no-quibble returns policy Most retailers have a no-quibble returns policy within 28 days, as long as the customer can show a receipt. start learning
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a way of allowing a customer to give a product back to a shop and receive their money back without having to give a specific reason
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I found the sauce rather bland. start learning
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food that is bland has very little taste
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The little boy won the audience over with his captivating smile. start learning
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very attractive and interesting, in a way that holds your attention
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The tune is catchy, but the lyrics are meaningless. start learning
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a catchy tune or phrase is easy to remember
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She was very clumsy and was always knocking chairs over. start learning
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moving or doing things in a careless way, especially so that you drop things, knock into things etc.
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I know it sounds corny, but I dream about her every night. start learning
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too silly and repeated too often to be funny or interesting
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The beach party was a fitting end to what was a memorable trip. start learning
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right for a particular situation or occasion
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The new marketing director seems to have a more inventive approach. start learning
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able to think of new, different or interesting ideas
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Holding the meeting outdoors is a novel solution. start learning
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not like anything known before, and unusual or interesting
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I like his quirky sense of humour. start learning
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unusual, especially in an interesting way
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The film is enjoyable, but just another run-of-the-mill adaptation of a classic novel. start learning
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not special or interesting in any way
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Many people find slugs repulsive. start learning
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extremely unpleasant, in a way that almost makes you feel sick
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He was becoming stale and running out of ideas. start learning
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food that is stale is no longer fresh or good to eat; if you get stale, you have no new ideas, interest or energy, because you have been doing the same thing for too long
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The plant’s flowers were so big that they seemed almost surreal. start learning
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a situation or experience that is surreal is very strange and difficult to understand, like something from a dream
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Jack wrote a witty letter in response to their criticism. start learning
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using words in a clever and amusing way
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get a lot of flak (for something) The health minister has got a lot of flak for his handling of the crisis. start learning
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to receive strong criticism (about something)
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set your sights on something He set his sights on crossing the Pacific in a kayak. start learning
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to want very much to have or achieve something, or to be determined to do somethingto want very much to have or achieve something, or to be determined to do something
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The guide helps you pick your way through the minefield of buying a new car. start learning
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a situation in which there are a lot of dangers and difficulties, and it is difficult to make the right decision
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Being famous is often a double-edged sword. start learning
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something that seems to be good, but that can have a bad effect
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After a slow start, the Tigers are going great guns. start learning
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to be doing something extremely well
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I know it’s a long shot, but maybe someone has handed your camera in to the police. start learning
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someone or something with very little chance of success
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Residents are up in arms about plans for a new road along the beach. start learning
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very angry and ready to argue or fight
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They can’t force you to get on a plane, so stick to your guns and go by car, if that’s what you want. start learning
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to refuse to change your mind about something, even though other people are trying to persuade you that you are wrong
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They are fighting a losing battle, protesting about the new ring road. start learning
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to try to do something that you probably cannot succeed in doing
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The castle is ten miles from here as the crow flies. start learning
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It’s best to steer clear of the town centre on a Saturday night. start learning
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to avoid (someone or something unpleasant or difficult)
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I just need to get away from it all for a couple of weeks. Things have been a bit stressful recently. start learning
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to have a relaxing holiday
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You have to be an individual; it’s no use following the herd. start learning
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to go where people generally go, or do the same thing that most other people are doing, without really thinking about it for yourself – used to show disapproval
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For some reason I didn’t trust her, so I went with my gut and refused her offer. start learning
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to do what you are sure is right, although you cannot give a reason for it
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My mum has always had a taste for adventure in the great outdoors. start learning
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the countryside far away from buildings and cities
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The motorway will be busy at this time. Let’s take the scenic route home. start learning
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to go somewhere by a longer way than usual, especially one that goes through beautiful or interesting areas
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They live miles away, in the middle of nowhere. start learning
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a long way from the nearest big town
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It’s a nice little cottage but it really is in the back of beyond. start learning
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a place that is a long way from other places and is difficult to get to
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After a few minutes, he turned around and began to retrace his steps. start learning
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to go back exactly the way you have come
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Their dinghy capsized just outside the harbour. start learning
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if a boat capsizes, or if you capsize it, it turns over in the water
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A car and a van collided on the motorway. start learning
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to hit something or someone that is moving in a different direction from you
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São Paulo’s roads are heavily congested. start learning
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Gridlock is reported in the streets of Moscow this evening. start learning
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a situation in which streets in a city are so full of cars that they cannot move
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All planes are grounded until the fog clears. start learning
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of an aircraft or pilot, prevented from flying
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The road through the mountains is impassable because of a landslide. start learning
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a road, path or area that is impassable is impossible to travel along or through
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I’m suffering from jetlag but I’ll feel better after a good night’s sleep. start learning
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the tired and confused feeling that you can get after flying a very long distance, especially because of the difference in time between the place you left and the place you arrived at
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She was cycling home when she had a puncture. start learning
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a small hole made accidentally in a tyre
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The mechanism had seized up. start learning
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if an engine or part of a machine seizes up, its moving parts stop working and can no longer move, for example because of lack of oil
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Beatty was shipwrecked off the coast of Africa. start learning
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if someone is shipwrecked, they are in a boat or ship when it is destroyed in an accident
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Air travellers were left stranded because of icy conditions. start learning
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a person or vehicle that is stranded is unable to move from the place where they are
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It will cost far too much to repair the damage to the car, so it’s a complete write-off. start learning
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a vehicle that has been so badly damaged that it can never be used again
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He got involved in a credit card scam. start learning
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a clever but dishonest way to get money
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I could never lie to her because I know she’d see through me straight away. start learning
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to realise that (someone) is trying to deceive you
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Patrick’s job is to investigate bogus insurance claims. start learning
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not true or real, although someone is trying to make you think it is
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Don’t be taken in by products claiming to help you lose weight in a week. start learning
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to be completely deceived by someone who lies to you
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Liz tried to think of a ruse to get Paul out of the house. start learning
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a clever trick used to deceive someone
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His usual ploy is to pretend he’s ill. start learning
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a clever and dishonest way of tricking someone so that you can get an advantage
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Recently, scammers have been visiting elderly people’s homes in our neighbourhood. start learning
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someone who deceives someone in order to get money from them
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Plastic replicas of the Greek pottery are sold to gullible tourists. start learning
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too ready to believe what other people tell you, so that you are easily tricked
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Children in these urban areas learn to be streetwise at a very young age. start learning
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able to deal with the dangerous situations and people that are common in some cities and towns
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The company organises cultural tours for the discerning traveller. start learning
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showing the ability to make good judgements, especially about art, music, style etc.
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