Cambridge English Profile Level C2

dedicated

(adjective) FOR PURPOSE. designed to be used for a particular purpose. Dictionary example: The city has created hundreds of miles of dedicated bike lanes.

heavy

(adjective) FORCE.using a lot of force。 Dictionary examples: a heavy blow heavy breathing

complimentary

(adjective) FREE.given free, especially by a business. Dictionary example: a complimentary glass of wine.

inseparable

(adjective) FRIENDS.People who are inseparable are always together because they are such good friends. Dictionary example: The two girls got on very well and soon became inseparable.

constant

(adjective) SAME LEVEL.staying at the same level. Dictionary example: The temperature remained constant.

detached

(adjective) SEPARATE.separate and not joined or connected to another part, building, etc. Dictionary example: Their new house has a detached garage.

dazed

(adjective) not able to think clearly because you are shocked or have hit your head. Dictionary example: The driver seemed dazed but not badly hurt.

accountable

(adjective) responsible for what you do and having to be able to explain your actions. Dictionary examples: Hospitals must be held accountable for their mistakes. Politicians should be accountable to the public that elects them.

alone

(adjective), (adverb) ONLY ONE.[always after noun] used to emphasize that only one person or thing is involved. Dictionary examples: Last year alone the company made a million dollars. You alone know how you feel.

chronic

(adjective)A chronic illness or problem continues for a long time. Dictionary examples: a chronic shortage of nurses chronic back pain .

high-profile

(adjective)A high-profile person or event is known about by a lot of people and receives a lot of attention from television, newspapers, etc. Dictionary example: a high-profile campaign/case

lenient

(adjective)A lenient punishment is not severe. Dictionary example: He asked the judge to pass a lenient sentence.

innate

(adjective)An innate quality or ability is one that you were born with, not one you have learned. Dictionary example: He has an innate desire to win.

intrinsic

(adjective)An intrinsic quality or thing forms part of the basic character of something or someone. Dictionary example: Drama is an intrinsic part of the school curriculum.

ironic

(adjective)An ironic situation is strange because it is the opposite of what you would expect. Dictionary example: It's ironic that she was hurt by the very person she's trying to help.

consecutive

(adjective)Consecutive events, numbers, or periods of time come one after the other. Dictionary example: the third consecutive day of rain

fertile

(adjective)Fertile land or soil produces a lot of healthy plants. Dictionary example: They settled in the fertile river valleys.

hypocritical

(adjective)Hypocritical people pretend to believe things that they do not really believe or that are the opposite of what they do or say at another time. Dictionary example: Having told Tom that he should not accept any money from her, it would be rather hypocritical if I did.

deceptive

(adjective)If something is deceptive, it makes you believe something that is not true. Dictionary example: Appearances can be deceptive.

fulfilling

(adjective)If something is fulfilling, it satisfies you and makes you happy. Dictionary example: a fulfilling job

lucrative

(adjective)If something is lucrative, it results in a lot of money. Dictionary example: a lucrative contract/job/offer

contradictory

(adjective)If two statements about the same subject or two actions by the same person are contradictory, they are very different. Dictionary example: The witness statements were contradictory.

adjacent

(adjective)If two things are adjacent, they are next to each other. Dictionary examples: The fire started in an adjacent building. We can meet in the parking area adjacent to the gardens.

impulsive

(adjective)Impulsive people do things suddenly, without planning or thinking carefully, because they want to. Dictionary example: I thought she seemed very bright, but also impulsive and unpredictable.

industrious

(adjective)Industrious people work hard. Dictionary example: He is good at his work and very industrious.

irrational

(adjective)Irrational feelings and actions are based on your emotions and not on good reasons. Dictionary examples: irrational behavior an irrational fear of flying

irreversible

(adjective)Something that is irreversible cannot be changed back to how it was before. Dictionary examples: irreversible damage to the heart/lungs Technology has had an irreversible impact on society.

literal

(adjective)The literal meaning of a word or phrase is its real or original meaning. Dictionary example: the literal meaning/sense

lethal

(adjective)able to cause death. Dictionary example: a lethal injection/weapon

literate

(adjective)able to read and write. Dictionary example: He was barely literate.

custody

(noun) CHILD.the legal right to care for a child, especially when parents separate. Dictionary example: When they divorced, it was Nicola who won custody of their two children.

coherence

(noun) CLEAR.the state of being clear and easy to understand. Dictionary example: Her argument lacks any coherence.

linen

(noun) CLOTH.[U] a strong cloth that is like rough cotton. Dictionary example: a linen jacket

chill

(noun) COLD. [no plural] a cold feeling. Dictionary example: There's a definite chill in the air.

channel

(noun) COMMUNICATION.a way of communicating with people or getting something done. Dictionary examples: a channel of communication Please make your request through the proper channels.

field

(noun) COMPETITORS.[no plural] the people competing in a race, activity, or business. Dictionary example: We lead the field in genetic research.

cookie

(noun) COMPUTER. a piece of information stored on your computer which contains information about an Internet site you have looked at. Dictionary example: You need to enable cookies to use this Web site.

assurance

(noun) CONFIDENCE.[U] confidence. Dictionary example: He spoke with calm assurance.

association

(noun) CONNECTION.[C or U] a connection or relationship between two things or people. Dictionary example: There is no association between the two groups.

bridge

(noun) CONNECTION.when someone is offered money or a present so that they will do something, usually something dishonest. Dictionary example: bribery and corruption.

casserole

(noun) CONTAINER.[C] ( also casserole dish) a large, heavy container with a lid, that is used for cooking casseroles. Dictionary example: Bake the mixture in a casserole.

field

(noun) CONTAINING SUBSTANCE.[C] an area of land covered with or containing a lot of a particular substance. Dictionary examples: an oil/gas/coal field The upper part of the volcano is a vast field of black lava. They searched for meteorites on the frozen ice fields of Antarctica.

command

(noun) CONTROL.[U] control over someone or something and responsibility for them. Dictionary examples: The soldiers were under the command of a tough sergeant-major. Jones was in command.

forgery

(noun) COPY.[C] an illegal copy of a document, painting, etc. Dictionary example: The passport was clearly a forgery.

fake

(noun) COPY.a copy of something that is intended to look real or valuable and deceive people. Dictionary example: Experts say that the painting is a fake.

diplomacy

(noun) COUNTRIES.dealing with the relationships between governments. Dictionary example: international diplomacy

land

(noun) COUNTRY.[C]literary a country. Dictionary examples: Ireland was my grandmother's native land. a land of ice and snow

ally

(noun) COUNTRY.a country that has agreed to help another country, especially in a war. Dictionary example: During World War One, Turkey and Germany were allies.

forgery

(noun) CRIME.[U] the crime of making an illegal copy of something. Dictionary example: The doctor was convicted on two charges of forgery.

fraud

(noun) CRIME.[U] when someone does something illegal in order to get money. Dictionary example: credit card fraud

intruder

(noun) CRIME.someone who enters a place where they are not allowed to be, often to commit a crime. Dictionary example: I heard intruders at the back of the house.

conviction

(noun) CRIME.when someone is officially found to be guilty of a particular crime. Dictionary examples: He already had two convictions for burglary. The conviction of all three protesters caused anger in the local community.

attack

(noun) CRITICISM.when you say something to strongly criticize someone or something. Dictionary example: a scathing attack on the president

crush

(noun) CROWD. [no plural] a crowd of people forced to stand close together because there is not enough room. Dictionary example: Many people fell over in the crush.

distress

(noun) DANGER.when someone or something is in danger and needs help. Dictionary example: a ship in distress

direction

(noun) DEVELOPMENT.[C] the way that someone or something changes or develops. Dictionary example: Our careers have gone in very different directions.

course

(noun) DEVELOPMENT.[no plural] the way something develops, usually over a long time. Dictionary example: Nuclear weapons have changed the course of modern history.

formation

(noun) DEVELOPMENT.the development of something into a particular thing or shape. Dictionary example: the formation of a crystal

imperative

(adjective)formal When an action or process is imperative, it is extremely important that it happens or is done. Dictionary example: It is imperative (that) I speak with him at once.

fearful

(adjective)frightened or worried. Dictionary example: He was fearful of driving on the icy streets.

dated

(adjective)from a time in the past, or old-fashioned. Dictionary example: This is dated information about the program - a lot has changed.

eventful

(adjective)full of interesting or important events. Dictionary example: a very eventful day/journey

engrossed

(adjective)giving all your attention to something. Dictionary example: He was so engrossed in what he was doing that he didn't hear the bell.

eventual

(adjective)happening or existing at the end of a process or period of time. Dictionary example: the eventual winner of the competition

detrimental

(adjective)harmful or damaging. Dictionary example: a detrimental effect

justifiable

(adjective)having a good reason. Dictionary example: justifiable anger

finite

(adjective)having a limit or end. Dictionary example: We only have a finite amount of time to complete this task.

charismatic

(adjective)having a natural power to influence and attract people. Dictionary example: Her mother was a very charismatic woman.

ambiguous

(adjective)having more than one possible meaning. Dictionary example: an ambiguous statement

incurable

(adjective)impossible to cure. Dictionary example: an incurable disease

inconceivable

(adjective)impossible to imagine. Dictionary example: It's not inconceivable that soon most cars will be battery powered.

disposable

(adjective)intended to be used only once and then thrown away. Dictionary example: a disposable camera/razor

malicious

(adjective)intended to harm or upset someone. Dictionary example: malicious gossip

merciful

(adjective)kind and forgiving. Dictionary example: Judges are sometimes more merciful than a jury.

committed

(adjective)loyal and willing to give your time and energy to something that you believe in. Dictionary examples: a committed marathon runner She's committed to the job.

humiliated

(adjective)made to feel stupid or ashamed. Dictionary example: She felt completely humiliated.

comforting

(adjective)making you feel better when you are anxious or sad. Dictionary example: He said a few comforting words.

humiliating

(adjective)making you feel stupid or ashamed. Dictionary example: a humiliating defeat

foremost

(adjective)most important. Dictionary example: He's one of the country's foremost experts on military law.

illiterate

(adjective)not able to read or write. Dictionary example: Most of the children are illiterate.

immune

(adjective)not affected by a particular type of behavior or emotion. Dictionary example: He is immune to flattery.

arbitrary

(adjective)not based on a system or principles and often seeming unfair. Dictionary example: an arbitrary *decision*.

fringe

(adjective)not belonging to the main part of a group, activity, or subject. Dictionary example: fringe politics/theatre

indifferent

(adjective)not caring about or interested in someone or something. Dictionary example: They are indifferent to the plight of the unemployed.

intact

(adjective)not damaged or destroyed. Dictionary example: Many of the old buildings are still intact.

fearless

(adjective)not frightened of anything. Dictionary example: a fearless fighter

anonymous

(adjective)not giving a name. Dictionary examples: an anonymous phone call/letter The winner has asked to remain anonymous.

mediocre

(adjective)not good in quality. Dictionary example: The acting was mediocre.

ignorant

(adjective)not having enough knowledge, understanding, or information about something. Dictionary example: He was a newcomer to Formula One and ignorant of many of the circuits.

defective

(adjective)not in good condition or not working correctly. Dictionary example: I replaced the defective light.

disloyal

(adjective)not loyal or not supporting someone who you should support. Dictionary example: I don't want to be disloyal to my friend.

flawed

(adjective)not perfect, or containing mistakes. Dictionary examples: Diamonds are still valuable, even when they are flawed. His argument is deeply flawed.

frail

(adjective)not strong or healthy. Dictionary example: a frail old lady

disturbed

(adjective)not thinking or behaving normally because of mental or emotional problems. Dictionary example: He is a very disturbed child.

indisputable

(adjective)obviously and certainly true. Dictionary example: an indisputable fact

facial

(adjective)of or on the face. Dictionary example: facial expressions/hair

faultless

(adjective)perfect, or without any mistakes. Dictionary example: a faultless performance

courteous

(adjective)polite and showing respect. Dictionary example: We received a very courteous reply.

attainable

(adjective)possible to achieve. Dictionary example: We must ensure that we do not set ourselves goals that are not attainable.

conclusive

(adjective)proving that something is true. Dictionary example: conclusive evidence/proof

defensive

(adjective)quick to protect yourself from being criticized. Dictionary example: He's very defensive about his weight.

intolerant

(adjective)refusing to accept any opinions, beliefs, customs, etc., that are different from your own. Dictionary example: She can be very intolerant of other people's opinions.

capitalist

(adjective)relating to capitalism. Dictionary example: a capitalist society.

grammatical

(adjective)relating to grammar, or obeying the rules of grammar. Dictionary examples: grammatical rules a grammatical sentence

continental

(adjective)relating to or located on a continent. Dictionary example: The continental US includes all the states except Hawaii.

experimental

(adjective)relating to tests, especially scientific ones. Dictionary example: The two scientists used very different experimental methods.

constitutional

(adjective)relating to the constitution of a country. Dictionary example: a constitutional crisis.

fundamental

(adjective)relating to the most important or main part of something. Dictionary examples: a fundamental change/difference Training is fundamental to success.

clichéd

(adjective)said or done too often and therefore boring or without real meaning. Dictionary example: He made some clichéd remark about the birth of his first child completely changing his life.

abusive

(adjective)saying rude and offensive words to someone. Dictionary example: an abusive phone call .

apologetic

(adjective)showing or saying that you are sorry about something. Dictionary examples: an apologetic smile. She was very apologetic about missing the meeting.

lavish

(adjective)showing that a lot of money has been spent. Dictionary example: a lavish meal/party.

affectionate

(adjective)showing that you like or love someone. Dictionary examples: an affectionate child. He's very affectionate.

expressive

(adjective)showing your feelings. Dictionary examples: expressive language a very expressive face

analogous

(adjective)similar in some ways. Dictionary example: The stock market recorded a 0.4% annual increase that was roughly analogous to results in the late 1960s.

corresponding

(adjective)similar or related. Dictionary example: Draw a line between the words with corresponding meanings.

marginal

(adjective)small and not important. Dictionary example: a marginal difference/effect/improvement

fluid

(adjective)smooth and continuous with a flowing or changing quality. Dictionary examples: a dancer's fluid movements The situation remains fluid - we offered her the job, but she hasn't responded yet.

inexplicable

(adjective)so strange or unusual that you cannot understand or explain it. Dictionary example: To me his behavior was totally inexplicable.

floppy

(adjective)soft and loose or hanging down loosely. Dictionary example: a floppy hat

implicit

(adjective)suggested but not stated directly. Dictionary examples: an implicit threat We interpreted his silence as implicit agreement.

interim

(adjective)temporary and intended to be used or accepted until something permanent exists. Dictionary examples: an interim solution an interim government

intolerable

(adjective)too bad or unpleasant to deal with or accept. Dictionary examples: an intolerable situation The constant fighting made life at home intolerable.

conceited

(adjective)too proud of yourself and your actions. Dictionary example: I find him very conceited.

characteristic

(adjective)typical of someone or something. Dictionary examples: Gray stone is characteristic of the buildings in that area. With characteristic generosity, she offered to pay for us all.

disturbing

(adjective)unpleasant in a way that makes people feel anxious or upset. Dictionary example: disturbing images

hierarchical

(adjective)using a system that arranges things according to their importance Dictionary example: The company has a very hierarchical structure.

exquisite

(adjective)very beautiful or perfect Dictionary example: a garden of exquisite flowers.

meticulous

(adjective)very careful, and giving great attention to detail. Dictionary example: This book is the result of meticulous research.

hygienic

(adjective)very clean, so that bacteria cannot spread. Dictionary example: hygienic conditions

arid

(adjective)very dry and without enough rain for plants. Dictionary example: an arid region/climate

intriguing

(adjective)very interesting. Dictionary example: an intriguing story

innumerable

(adjective)very many, or too many to count. Dictionary example: innumerable problems

mighty

(adjective)very powerful or successful. Dictionary example: In their next game they're playing the mighty Redskins.

laid-back

(adjective)very relaxed and not seeming worried about anything, or causing people to feel this way. Dictionary examples: a laid-back style of teaching He's very laid-back. The place had a laid-back atmosphere.

horrified

(adjective)very shocked. Dictionary example: When I told him all the money was gone, he was absolutely horrified.

broad-minded

(adjective)willing to accept other people's behavior and beliefs that are different from your own. Dictionary example: My eighty-year-old aunt is very broad-minded.

fragrant

(adjective)with a pleasant smell. Dictionary example: fragrant flowers

flawless

(adjective)with no mistakes or bad characteristics Dictionary example: a flawless complexion.

carefree

(adjective)without any worries or problems. Dictionary example: a carefree childhood

away

(adverb) CONTINUOUS ACTION.used after a verb to mean "continuously" or "repeatedly". Dictionary example: Chris was hammering away in the garden all day.

around

(adverb) EXISTING.present or available. Dictionary example: Cell phones have been around for years now.

dead

(adverb) EXTREMELY.informal extremely or completely. Dictionary example: The directions were dead wrong.

fast

(adverb) FIRMLY.in a firm or tight way. Dictionary example: He tried to get away, but she held him fast.

intensely

(adverb) FULLY.fully, or with great concentration, effort, or attention. Dictionary example: He focused intensely on the sheet of music before him.

knowingly

(adverb) INTENTIONALLY.If you knowingly do something, you mean to do it although it is wrong. Dictionary example: I would never knowingly hurt her.

indeed

(adverb) MORE.(formal)used when you say more to support or develop what has already been said Dictionary example: For such creatures speed is not important, indeed it is counterproductive.

merely

(adverb) ONLY.used to say something is or does only this or is not large or important when compared to something else. Dictionary example: The medicine doesn't make you better, it merely stops the pain.

intensely

(adverb) SERIOUSLY.with strong, serious emotions. Dictionary example: She stared at me intensely.

knowingly

(adverb) SHOWING KNOWLEDGE.showing that you know what another person is really thinking. Dictionary example: He smiled knowingly.

beyond

(adverb) TIME.continuing after a particular time or date. Dictionary example: The dispute is likely to continue into March and beyond.

downhill

(adverb) TOWARD BOTTOM.toward the bottom of a hill or slope. Dictionary example: It's much easier to go downhill on a bike.

intensely

(adverb) VERY.extremely. Dictionary example: Her book is intensely personal.

consistently

(adverb) in a way that does not change, often a positive way . Dictionary examples: He has consistently denied the rumors. She performed consistently throughout the whole tournament.

below

(adverb), preposition RANK.lower in rank. Dictionary example: Monica is a grade below me.

above

(adverb), preposition TOO IMPORTANT. too good or important for something. Dictionary example: No one is above suspicion in this matter.

invariably

(adverb)always. Dictionary example: The train is invariably packed.

hopelessly

(adverb)extremely, or in a way that makes you lose hope. Dictionary examples: hopelessly lost They met in college and fell hopelessly in love.

indefinitely

(adverb)for a period of time for which no end has been fixed. Dictionary example: His visit has been postponed indefinitely.

fundamentally

(adverb)in a basic and important way. Dictionary examples: Nothing has fundamentally changed. I still believe that people are fundamentally good.

decisively

(adverb)in a decisive way. Dictionary example: We need to act decisively.

diplomatically

(adverb)in a way that deals well with people without upsetting them. Dictionary example: He phrased his question very diplomatically.

medically

(adverb)in a way that is connected to medicine or to someone's health. Dictionary example: A stay in the hospital was not medically necessary, so the doctor said he could go home.

logically

(adverb)in a way that is logical. Dictionary example: Her ideas were clear and logically presented.

conclusively

(adverb)in a way that proves that something is true. Dictionary example: It is possible to prove conclusively that he was at home at the time.

intellectually

(adverb)in a way that relates to your ability to think and to understand things. Dictionary example: She's hoping to find a job that is more demanding intellectually.

harshly

(adverb)in an unkind, strict, or unpleasant way. Dictionary example: Violators are being dealt with harshly.

likewise

(adverb)in the same way. Dictionary examples: Water these plants twice a week and likewise the ones in the bedroom. Watch what she does and then do likewise.

abruptly

(adverb)suddenly and quickly. Dictionary examples: They abruptly left the party. His speech ended abruptly and he left the stage.

ironically

(adverb)used to emphasize that a situation is strange because it is the opposite of what you expected. Dictionary example: Ironically, the only good book on this subject has gone out of print.

allegedly

(adverb)used to say something is thought to be true but is not proved. Dictionary example: Someone at the company allegedly had lost the records.

infinitely

(adverb)very or very much. Dictionary example: Travel is infinitely more comfortable now than it used to be.

albeit

(conjunction)although. Dictionary example: He tried, albeit without success.

insofar as

(conjunction)formal (in so far as) .to the degree that. Dictionary example: The story is based insofar as possible on notes made by Scott himself.

however

(conjunction)in whatever way. Dictionary examples: However you look at it, it's still a mess. You can do it however you like, it really doesn't matter.

haul

(noun) AMOUNT.an amount of something, often something that has been stolen or that is owned illegally. Dictionary examples: a haul of arms/drugs She got a huge haul of gifts at Christmas.

cry

(noun) ANIMAL/BIRD.a sound that a particular animal or bird makes. Dictionary example: an eagle's cry

loft

(noun) APARTMENT.a large, open apartment, often in a former industrial building. Dictionary example: They've bought a loft downtown that has huge windows.

illusion

(noun) APPEARANCE.[C] something that is not really as it appears to be. Dictionary example: There is a large mirror at one end to create the illusion of more space.

gulf

(noun) DIFFERENCE.an important difference between the opinions or situations of two groups of people Dictionary example: There is a growing gulf *between* the rich and the poor.

clash

(noun) DIFFERENCE.en ideas or qualities are very different, and this causes problems. Dictionary example: a clash of personalities

margin

(noun) DIFFERENCE.the difference between two amounts of time, money, etc. Dictionary example: He was reelected by a wide margin.

loss

(noun) DISADVANTAGE.[no plural] a disadvantage caused by someone leaving an organization. Dictionary example: It would be a great loss to the department if you left.

difference

(noun) DISAGREEMENT.[C] a disagreement or different opinion. Dictionary example: They must try to resolve their differences peacefully.

challenge

(noun) DISAGREEMENT.[C] an expression of disagreement with ideas, rules, or someone's authority. Dictionary example: a challenge to the authority of the President

counter

(noun) DISC.a small disc used in some games that are played on a board. Dictionary example: Move the counter forward two squares.

consultation

(noun) DISCUSSING.[U] when you discuss something with someone in order to get their advice or opinion about it. Dictionary example: After consultation with his lawyers, he decided to abandon the case.

dialogue

(noun) DISCUSSION.a formal discussion between countries or groups of people. Dictionary example: We need to enter into a dialogue with these people.

breakdown

(noun) DIVISION.information broken into parts to easily show the details. Dictionary example: I need a breakdown of the costs involved.

injection

(noun) DRUG.when someone puts a drug into your body using a needle. Dictionary example: an injection of insulin

depression

(noun) ECONOMY.a time when there is not much business activity. Dictionary example: The stock market crash marked the start of a severe depression.

fringe

(noun) EDGE. the outside edge of an area, group, or subject and not the main part. Dictionary examples: the southern fringe of the city the radical fringe of the party

line

(noun) EDGE.a long mark on an area where a sport is played that shows an edge or measurement. Dictionary examples: the foul line the 50-yard line

belief

(noun) EFFECTIVE.[U or no plural] the feeling that someone or something is effective or right. Dictionary example: a belief in social justice

circuit

(noun) ELECTRIC.a complete circle that an electric current travels around. Dictionary example: an electrical circuit

interference

(noun) ELECTRONIC SIGNAL.noise or other electronic signals that stop you from getting good pictures or sound on a television, radio, telephone, etc. Dictionary examples: Your computer is causing interference - when you turned it on the radio started buzzing. The storm caused a lot of interference.

conclusion

(noun) END.[C] the final part of something. Dictionary examples: the dramatic conclusion of the movie The case should finally *be brought to* a conclusion this week.

comfort

(noun) ENOUGH MONEY.when you have a pleasant life with enough money for everything that you need. Dictionary example: He can afford to retire and live in comfort for the rest of his life.

landmark

(noun) EVENT.an event which is famous or important in the history of something. Dictionary example: The invention of the silicon chip is a landmark in the history of technology.

circuit

(noun) EVENTS.a regular series of places or events that people involved in a particular activity go to. Dictionary example: the tennis circuit

inspection

(noun) EXAMINATION. when you look at something carefully. Dictionary example: On closer inspection, the painting was discovered to be a fake.

fever

(noun) EXCITEMENT.[U] when people are very excited about something. Dictionary example: Election fever has gripped the nation.

buzz

(noun) EXCITEMENT.[no plural] a feeling of excitement, energy, or pleasure. Dictionary example: He gets a real buzz from going to the gym.

illustration

(noun) EXPLAIN.an example that explains or proves something. Dictionary example: This delay is a perfect illustration of why we need a new computer system.

interpretation

(noun) EXPLANATION.an explanation or opinion of what something means. Dictionary example: traditional interpretations of the Latin text

contact

(noun) EYE.[C] ( also contact lens) a small piece of plastic that you put on your eye to make you see more clearly Dictionary example: I wear contacts.

down the drain

informal. If money or work goes down the drain, it is wasted. Dictionary example: If you leave the school now, all your hard work will go down the drain.

be down in the dumps

informal.to be unhappy. Dictionary example: He looks a bit down in the dumps.

get moving

informal.to hurry. Dictionary example: We're leaving in five minutes, so get moving!

get to sb

informal.to make someone feel upset or angry. Dictionary example: I know he's annoying but you shouldn't let him get to you.

get the picture

informal.used to say that someone understands a situation. Dictionary example: Oh right, I get the picture.

inside information/knowledge, etc.

information that is only known by people who are part of an organization, group, etc. Dictionary example: I needed someone with inside knowledge to back up my story.

(the) chances are

it is likely. Dictionary examples: Chances are that he'll refuse. If we plan a picnic, the chances are that it'll rain.

at issue

most important in what is being discussed. Dictionary example: The point at issue is what is best for the child.

all the better/easier/more exciting, etc.

much better, easier, more exciting, etc. Dictionary example: The journey was all the more dangerous because of the bad weather.

on hand

near to someone or something, and ready to help or be used when necessary. Dictionary example: Extra supplies will be on hand, in case they are needed.

not in the least

not at all. Dictionary example: I don't mind staying at home, not in the least.

few and far between

not happening or existing very often. Dictionary example: Opportunities like this are few and far between.

out of your depth

not having the knowledge, experience, or skills to deal with a particular subject or situation. Dictionary example: When they start talking about philosophy, I'm completely out of my depth.

in the clear

not in a difficult situation or having problems any more. Dictionary examples: We had some large debts, but we should be in the clear by next year. His lawyers say that Wilson is in the clear.

in the dark

not knowing about something because other people are not telling you. Dictionary example: They kept us in the dark about their plans.

at a loss

not knowing what to do. Dictionary example: I'm at a loss to explain his disappearance.

at a loss for words

not knowing what to say. Dictionary example: The question was unexpected and she was temporarily at a loss for words.

a good 20 minutes/30 miles, etc.

not less than 20 minutes/30 miles, etc. and probably a little more. Dictionary example: It takes a good half hour to get downtown to the office.

little more/better

not much more or better. Dictionary examples: Their house was little more than a hovel. Their electricity was off for a week and we did little better - five days.

inclined to do sth

often behaving in a particular way. Dictionary example: Tom is inclined to be forgetful. wanting to do something Dictionary example: No one seemed inclined to help.

an isolated case/event/example, etc.

a case/event/example, etc. that happens only once. Dictionary example: This robbery was not an isolated incident.

a conscious decision/choice/effort, etc.

a decision/choice/effort, etc. that you make intentionally. Dictionary example: Did you make a conscious decision to lose weight?

a tight corner

a difficult situation. Dictionary example: She had been in a tight corner before and had always managed to cope.

a broken home

a family in which the parents do not now live together. Dictionary example: Many of these children come from broken homes.

peace of mind

a feeling that you do not need to worry about anything. Dictionary example: For my peace of mind, please check that the door is locked.

a handsome profit/sum, etc.

a large amount of money. Dictionary examples: a handsome salary They made a handsome profit on the sale of their house.

a fair amount/distance/size, etc.

a large amount, distance, size, etc. Dictionary example: There's still a fair amount of work to be done on the house.

long before

a long period of time before something. Dictionary example: I was a vegetarian long before I met Sally.

heaps of sth

a lot of something. Dictionary example: He has heaps of money.

your own flesh and blood

a member of your family. Dictionary example: I can't hate him - he's my own flesh and blood.

sb's looks

a person's appearance, especially how attractive they are. Dictionary example: I was attracted to him because of his looks.

a matter of life and death

a serious situation where people could die. Dictionary example: Getting water to these people is a matter of life and death.

a flight of stairs

a set of stairs connecting one floor to another in a building. Dictionary example: The elevator was broken so we had to climb six flights of stairs.

a book of stamps/tickets, etc.

a set of stamps, tickets, etc. that are sold together inside a cover. Dictionary example: I'll get a book of stamps when I go to the post office tomorrow.

a mark of sth

a sign or proof that something exists. Dictionary examples: a mark of genius There was a minute's silence everywhere as a mark of respect.

freedom from sth

a situation in which you are not suffering because of something unpleasant or harmful. Dictionary example: freedom from fear/poverty

a conflict of interest

a situation where someone cannot make fair decisions because they are influenced by something. Dictionary example: She resigned from the committee because of a conflict of interest.

comparative comfort/freedom/silence, etc.

a situation which is comfortable/free/silent, etc. when compared to another situation or to what is usual. Dictionary example: I enjoyed the comparative calm of his apartment after the busy office.

a downward spiral

a situation which is getting worse very quickly, and which is difficult to control. Dictionary example: After his death, the family went into a downward spiral.

an element of sth

a small amount of an emotion or quality. Dictionary example: There's an element of truth in what she says.

a hint of sth

a small amount of something. Dictionary example: There was a hint of anger in her voice.

a/some degree of sth

a small level or amount of something. Dictionary examples: There was some degree of truth in what she said. The plan involves a degree of risk, but it is worth trying.

a bite (to eat)

a small meal. Dictionary examples: I just want to grab a bite to eat. I had a bite at Laura's house.

stiff drink

a strong alcoholic drink. Dictionary example: I thought he could use a stiff drink after that car almost hit him.

a clap of thunder

a sudden, loud sound that is made by thunder. Dictionary example: We heard a clap of thunder.

a nest egg

a sum of money that has been saved or kept for a specific purpose. Dictionary example: She used her nest egg to buy a really good piano.

a bundle of energy/nerves

a very energetic/nervous person. Dictionary example: I was a bundle of nerves before the speech.

a/the prime example

a very good example of something. Dictionary example: This is a prime example of what happens when communication is poor.

a force to be reckoned with

a very powerful person or organization Dictionary example: His Dad is a force to be reckoned with.

the/a fast track

a very quick way of achieving or dealing with something. Dictionary example: These intensive courses claim to offer a fast track to wealth and success.

a drop in the ocean

a very small amount compared to the amount needed. Dictionary example: My letter of protest was just a drop in the ocean.

a matter of days/weeks/feet, etc.

a very small amount or period of time. Dictionary example: In a matter of seconds, the building was in flames.

a measure of sth

a way of judging something. Dictionary example: Ticket sales are not necessarily a measure of the show's popularity.

trial and error

a way of learning the best way to do something by trying different methods. Dictionary example: There aren't any instructions with it - it's just a matter of trial and error.

the animal/plant kingdom

all animals or plants considered together. Dictionary example: The monarch butterfly is one of the most beautiful creatures in the animal kingdom.

the labor force

all of the people available to work or actually employed in a particular area, industry, or company. Dictionary example: In this city, over 15 percent of the labor force are in jobs that require a bachelor's degree.

in all likelihood

almost certainly. Dictionary example: The facilities are wasted on people who in all likelihood will not use them.

all but

almost. Dictionary example: The movie was all but over by the time we got there.

in isolation

alone, or separately from other people, places, or things. Dictionary example: These poems cannot be considered in isolation.

in part

partly. Dictionary example: He is in part to blame for the accident.

your elders

people older than you. Dictionary example: I was taught to respect my elders.

sb/sth at large

people or things in general. Dictionary example: This group is not representative of the population at large.

ever changing/growing/increasing, etc.

always changing/growing/increasing, etc. Dictionary examples: We live in an ever-changing world. It seems the demand for these new electronic devices is ever increasing.

a labor of love

an activity that is hard work but which you do because you enjoy it. Dictionary example: He prefers to paint the house himself - it's a labor of love.

a fair chance

an equal and honest opportunity. Dictionary example: All he asks is a fair chance to prove his innocence.

a faraway look/expression

an expression on someone's face that shows that they are not thinking about what is happening around them. Dictionary example: He had a faraway look in his eyes.

a stroll/trip/walk down memory lane

an occasion when you remember some of the good things you did in the past. Dictionary example: We were just taking a walk down memory lane and recalling our youth.

hard feelings

anger, unhappiness, or lack of trust. Dictionary examples: I hope you don't have any hard feelings. I'm sorry it didn't work out, but no hard feelings.

the bush

areas in places like Africa and Australia that are covered with bushes and trees where very few people live. Dictionary example: He spent weeks wandering in the bush.

sure enough

as expected. Dictionary example: He said the book was on his desk, and sure enough, there it was.

the foreseeable future

as far in the future as you can imagine. Dictionary examples: Prices will remain high for the foreseeable future. We plan a move to New York in the foreseeable future.

as it stands

as something is now, without changes in it. Dictionary example: The law as it stands is very unclear.

the minute (that)

as soon as. Dictionary example: I'll tell you the minute we hear any news.

in the bargain

as well as everything else. Dictionary example: Caffeine has no good effects on health and is mildly addictive in the bargain.

on the dot

at that exact time. Dictionary example: We have to leave at 7:30 on the dot.

at the tender age of 8/17/25, etc.

at the young age of 8/17/25, etc. Dictionary example: She first appeared on stage at the tender age of 12.

along the lines of sth

based on and similar to something. Dictionary example: He gave a talk along the lines of the one he gave in Oxford.

in that

because of or for this reason. Dictionary example: This course is good in that it provides a very practical training.

by virtue of sth

because of something. Dictionary example: She succeeded by virtue of hard work.

for fear of sth/doing sth

because you are worried about something/doing something. Dictionary example: I didn't want to move for fear of waking her up.

an invasion of privacy

becoming involved in someone's private life when they do not want you to. Dictionary example: These phone calls to my home are an invasion of my privacy.

fair play

behavior that is fair, honest, and does not take advantage of people. Dictionary example: The public needs to feel a sense of fair play from the government.

in hand

being worked on or dealt with now. Dictionary example: Don't worry - we have the situation in hand.

see fit

believe to be what is good, correct, or necessary. Dictionary example: You can leave it here or take it home with you, whichever you see fit.

beyond your wildest dreams

bigger or better than anything you could imagine or hope for. Dictionary example: The house was beyond my wildest dreams.

by word of mouth

by one person telling another telling you. Dictionary example: Students learned of the center by word of mouth.

armed with sth

carrying or knowing something that will be useful. Dictionary example: I like to go to a meeting armed with the relevant facts.

adverse effect(s)/reaction(s)/conditions

causing problems, danger, or a bad effect. Dictionary examples: Her policies may have adverse effects on the economy. Some people have had an adverse reactions to cold medicines. adverse weather conditions

far from doing sth

certainly not doing something. Dictionary example: Far from being pleased, he was embarrassed by the praise.

easily the best/worst/biggest, etc.

certainly the best/worst/biggest, etc. Dictionary example: It was easily the biggest dog I have ever seen.

bound up with sth

closely connected with something. Dictionary example: A country's culture is bound up with its language and history.

(all) in one

combined into a single thing. Dictionary example: It's a vacation and art course all in one.

fast asleep

completely asleep. Dictionary example: I looked into his room but he was still fast asleep.

beyond (a) doubt

completely certain and without any doubt. Dictionary example: It is beyond doubt that she the best students I've ever taught.

from top to bottom

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

be still going strong

continuing to be successful or healthy after a long time. Dictionary examples: The club was set up in 1987, and it's still going strong. He's 93 and still going strong!

illusion

(noun) FALSE IDEA.[C or U] an idea or belief that is not true. Dictionary examples: He had no illusions about his talents as a singer. I was under the illusion that trains ran frequently on weekends.

blood

(noun) FAMILY ORIGIN.the family or place that you come from. Dictionary example: I've got some Spanish blood in me.

knot

(noun) FASTENING.a place where one or more pieces of string, rope, etc. have been tied. Dictionary example: Tie a knot in the rope.

chill

(noun) FEAR.[C] a sudden frightened feeling Dictionary example: The scream sent a chill down my spine.

attachment

(noun) FEELING.[C or U] a feeling of love or strong connection to someone or something. Dictionary examples: She had a special attachment to these students. I wasn't aware of any emotional attachment.

impulse

(noun) FEELING.[C] a sudden feeling that you must do something, without thinking about the results. Dictionary example: Her first impulse was to run away.

attraction

(noun) FEELING.[U] when you like someone, especially romantically, because of the way they look or behave. Dictionary example: We had a strong mutual attraction.

kick

(noun) FEELING.informal a special feeling of excitement and energy. Dictionary example: She gets a kick out of performing live.

baggage

(noun) FEELINGS.feelings and experiences from the past that influence how you think and behave now. Dictionary example: emotional baggage

clash

(noun) FIGHT.a fight or argument. Dictionary example: There were violent clashes between the police and demonstrators.

disturbance

(noun) FIGHTING. [C] when people fight or shout. Dictionary example: A man was hurt during a disturbance outside city hall.

action

(noun) FIGHTING. fighting in a war. Dictionary example: He was killed in action.

lead

(noun) FILM/PLAY.the main person in a film or play. Dictionary example: She plays the lead in both films.

casserole

(noun) FOOD. [C or U] a mixture of meat, vegetables, or other foods cooked with liquid for a long time in the oven Dictionary example: a beef casserole.

chili

(noun) FOOD.a spicy dish made with beans, chilies, and usually meat. Dictionary example: a bowl of chili

instrument

(noun) FOR ACHIEVING SOMETHING.someone or something that is used for achieving something. Dictionary example: The Internet is a very powerful instrument of communication.

comfort

(noun) FOR SADNESS.[U] when you feel better after being worried or sad. Dictionary example: What she said brought me great comfort.

drain

(noun) FOR WATER.a pipe or hole that takes away waste liquids or water. Dictionary example: She poured the dirty water down the drain.

gang

(noun) FRIENDS.informal a group of young friends. Dictionary example: I'm going camping with Holly and the rest of the gang.

head

(noun) FRONT/TOP.the front or top part of something. Dictionary example: Who is that at the head of the table?

core

(noun) FRUIT.[C] the hard, central part of certain fruits, such as apples, which contains the seeds. Dictionary example: Peel the apples and remove the cores.

crystal

(noun) GLASS.a type of high quality glass. Dictionary example: a crystal vase

inspiration

(noun) GOOD IDEA. [C] a sudden good idea about what you should do. Dictionary example: I've had an inspiration about Andy's birthday present.

bureaucracy

(noun) GOVERNMENT.[C or U] a government or organization in which there are a lot of officials in a lot of departments. Dictionary example: The country has a powerful bureaucracy.

chancellor

(noun) GOVERNMENT.the leader of the government in some countries. Dictionary example: the German chancellor

bed

(noun) GROUND.[C] a piece of ground that is used for growing plants, especially flowers. Dictionary example: a flower bed.

concentration

(noun) LARGE AMOUNT.[C or U] a large number or amount of something in the same place. Dictionary example: high concentrations of minerals

invasion

(noun) LARGE NUMBERS.when people enter a place in large numbers. Dictionary example: Every year, there is an invasion of tourists.

erosion

(noun) NEGATIVE EFFECT.gradual damage to something such as a quality or situation. Dictionary example: There has been a gradual erosion of confidence in the government.

feature

(noun) NEWSPAPER.a special article in a newspaper or magazine, or a special television program. Dictionary example: a double-page feature on global warming

circulation

(noun) NEWSPAPERS.the number of copies of a newspaper or magazine that are sold each day, week, etc. Dictionary example: The paper's circulation has fallen recently.

deficiency

(noun) NOT ENOUGH.when you do not have enough of something. Dictionary example: a vitamin deficiency

cushion

(noun) PROTECTION.something that protects you from possible problems. Dictionary example: Overseas savings provide a cushion against tax increases at home.

flavor

(noun) QUALITY. [no plural] a particular quality or style that something has. Dictionary example: London has a very international flavor.

distinction

(noun) QUALITY. [U] a quality or fact that makes someone or something special or different. Dictionary examples: He is a scientist of great distinction. He has the distinction of being the youngest player in the World Cup finals.

air

(noun) QUALITY.(no plural)a particular appearance or quality. Dictionary example: He has an air of confidence.

genius

(noun) QUALITY.[U] the quality of being extremely intelligent or extremely good at doing something. Dictionary example: Einstein's genius

grain

(noun) QUALITY.a very small amount of a quality. Dictionary example: There isn't a grain of truth in her story.

cause

(noun) REASON FOR.[U] a reason to feel something or to behave in a particular way. Dictionary example: He's never given me any cause for concern.

grounds

(noun) REASON.a reason, cause or argument. Dictionary example: He resigned on medical grounds.

appeal

(noun) REQUEST

champion

(noun) SUPPORT.someone who supports, defends, or fights for a person, belief, or principle. Dictionary example: a champion of human rights.

certainty

(noun) SURE THING.[C] something that is very likely to happen or cannot be doubted. Dictionary example: There are no absolute certainties in life.

heir

(noun)a person who will have the legal right to someone's money and possessions when they die . Dictionary example: He is the heir to a huge fortune.

janitor

(noun)a person whose job is to clean and take care of a building. Dictionary example: There is a janitor in the building from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

filter

(noun)a piece of equipment that you pass a liquid or gas through in order to remove particular substances Dictionary example: a coffee filter.

fragrance

(noun)a pleasant smell. Dictionary example: the delicate fragrance of roses

capitalism

(noun)a political and economic system in which industry is owned privately for profit and not by the state. Dictionary example: Modern capitalism has shaped the global economy.

lawsuit

(noun)a problem taken to a court of law, by an ordinary person or an organization rather than the police, for a legal decision. Dictionary example: The lawsuit is aimed at protecting this species of salamander.

attribute

(noun)a quality or characteristic that someone or something has. Dictionary example: Her hair is her best attribute.

justification

(noun)a reason for something. Dictionary example: There's no justification for treating her so unfairly.

gamble

(noun)a risk that you take that something will succeed. Dictionary example: Buying this place was a big gamble, but it seems to have paid off.

cheer

(noun)a shout of approval or encouragement. Dictionary example: His speech was drowned out by cheers.

chapel

(noun)a small church, or a room used as a church in a building. Dictionary example: There is a small chapel on the grounds of the estate.

fireplace

(noun)a space in the wall of a room where you can have a fire, or the structure around this space. Dictionary example: There was a large fireplace in the living room.

contempt

(noun)a strong feeling that you do not respect someone or something. Dictionary example: He has utter contempt for anyone with power.

craving

(noun)a strong feeling that you want or need something. Dictionary example: She had a craving for something salty.

explosive

(noun)a substance or piece of equipment that can cause explosions. Dictionary example: He was caught smuggling explosives into the building.

glue

(noun)a substance used to stick things together. Dictionary example: Put a little glue on both edges and hold them together.

comeback

(noun)a successful attempt to become powerful, important, or famous again. Dictionary example: She's made a comeback with her first new album in twenty years.

hypothesis

(noun)a suggested explanation for something which has not yet been proved to be true. Dictionary example: They are investigating the hypothesis that obesity may be caused by a virus.

framework

(noun)a system of rules, ideas, or beliefs that is used to plan or decide something. Dictionary examples: a legal framework for resolving disputes the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

hierarchy

(noun)a system or organization in which people or things are arranged according to their importance. Dictionary example: There is a very strict hierarchy where I work.

acre

(noun)a unit for measuring area, equal to 4047 square meters or 4840 square yards. Dictionary example: He owns 400 acres of land in California.

carriage

(noun)a vehicle with wheels that is pulled by a horse. Dictionary example: a horse and carriage.

fraction

(noun)a very small number or amount. Dictionary example: a fraction of a second

disgust

(noun)a very strong feeling of dislike or disapproval. Dictionary example: She walked out in disgust.

medium

(noun)a way of communicating or expressing something. Dictionary examples: the medium of television/radio the print medium The Internet has become yet another medium for marketing.

metaphor

(noun)a way of describing something by comparing it with something else which has some of the same qualities. Dictionary example: She used a computer metaphor to explain how the human brain works.

adolescent

(noun)a young person who is between being a child and an adult. Dictionary example: Many adolescents are secretive.

DNA

(noun)abbreviation for deoxyribonucleic acid; a chemical in the cells of living things which contains genetic information. Dictionary example: DNA evidence led to her arrest.

feat

(noun)an act or achievement that shows great skill or strength. Dictionary examples: The Eiffel Tower is a remarkable feat of engineering. Getting the house painted was quite a feat.

alliance

(noun)an agreement between people, countries, political parties, etc., to work together to achieve something. Dictionary examples: The mayor wants to form an alliance with local business leaders. an alliance between the countries/families/groups

accumulation

(noun)an amount of something that has been collected. Dictionary example: Despite this accumulation of evidence, the government did nothing.

assault

(noun)an attack. Dictionary examples: an assault on a police officer sexual assault

endeavor

(noun)an attempt to do something. Dictionary examples: Writing is a very different endeavor than teaching. Reaching the South Pole was an amazing example of human endeavor.

doorway

(noun)an entrance to a building or room through a door. Dictionary example: She waited in the doorway while I ran back inside.

catastrophe

(noun)an extremely bad event that causes a lot of suffering or destruction. Dictionary example: After the drought, the country is facing environmental catastrophe.

diarrhea

(noun)an illness in which your solid waste is more liquid than usual, and comes out of your body more often. Dictionary example: She has diarrhea.

memorial

(noun)an object, often made of stone, that is built to help people remember an important person or event. Dictionary examples: the Lincoln Memorial The statue was erected as a memorial to those who died in the war.

commander

(noun)an officer who is in charge of a military operation, or an officer of middle rank in the navy. Dictionary example: He was a naval commander.

dignity

(noun)calm and serious behavior that makes people respect you. Dictionary example: He behaved with great dignity and courage.

doom

(noun)death, destruction, and other unpleasant events that cannot be avoided. Dictionary example: a horrible sense of doom

fury

(noun)extreme anger or force. Dictionary example: The storm raged with mounting fury.

infant

(noun)formal.a baby or very young child. Dictionary example: Mothers and infants were allowed to board the plane first.

cargo

(noun)goods that are carried in a vehicle. Dictionary examples: a cargo of oil . a cargo ship/plane .

longevity

(noun)having a long life. Dictionary example: To what do you attribute your longevity?

integrity

(noun)honesty and the ability to do or know what is morally right. Dictionary example: a woman of great integrity

medication

(noun)medicine that is used to treat an illness. Dictionary example: He's on medication to control his depression.

contraception

(noun)methods that prevent a woman from becoming pregnant. Dictionary example: What form of contraception do you use?

inheritance

(noun)money or possessions that becone yours after someone dies. Dictionary example: Nick has sold off much of his inheritance.

knuckle

(noun)one of the parts of your finger where it bends. Dictionary example: I grazed my knuckles on the concrete.

kidney

(noun)one of the two organs in your body which remove waste from the blood and produce urine. Dictionary example: kidney failure/disease

counsel

(noun)one or more of the lawyers taking part in a case or legally representing a person or organization. Dictionary examples: counsel for the corporation defense counsel. Maloney skipped the meeting on the advice of counsel.

dominance

(noun)power, influence, and control. Dictionary example: the company's dominance in the software industry

cliché

(noun)said or done too often and therefore boring or without real meaning. Dictionary example: He made some clichéd remark about the birth of his first child completely changing his life.

devastation

(noun)serious damage caused by a violent event. Dictionary example: The tornado has already left a trail of devastation through four states from Nebraska to Missouri.

intellectual

(noun)someone who enjoys studying and thinking about complicated ideas. Dictionary example: She was a real intellectual.

founder

(noun)someone who establishes an organization, movement, etc. Dictionary example: She was one of the founders of the women's movement.

extremist

(noun)someone who has such strong opinions or beliefs that most people cannot agree with them. Dictionary example: political/religious extremists

inferior

(noun)someone who is considered to be less important than other people. Dictionary example: She considered me her inferior.

casualty

(noun)someone who is injured or killed in an accident or war. Dictionary example: Both sides in the conflict have promised to try to avoid civilian casualties.

civilian

(noun)someone who is not a member of a military organization or the police. Dictionary example: Several civilians were killed in the attack.

introvert

(noun)someone who is quiet and shy and prefers to be alone. Dictionary example: He's quite an introvert.

descendant

(noun)someone who is related to someone who lived a long time ago. Dictionary example: We are New Yorkers and the descendants of Chinese immigrants.

local

(noun)someone who lives in the area you are talking about. Dictionary example: The locals are very upset about the new law.

alcoholic

(noun)someone who regularly drinks too much alcohol and cannot stop the habit. Dictionary example: He became an alcoholic when his wife left him.

advocate

(noun)someone who supports a particular idea or way of doing things. Dictionary example: He has always been an advocate of space exploration.

follower

(noun)someone who supports or believes in a particular person or set of ideas. Dictionary example: The newly elected governor appeared overcome with emotion as he thanked his followers.

fanatic

(noun)someone whose interest in something or enthusiasm for something is extreme. Dictionary examples: a religious fanatic fitness/exercise fanatics

counselor

(noun)someone whose job is to give people advice and help. Dictionary example: a marriage/guidance counselor

incentive

(noun)something that encourages you to act in a particular way. Dictionary examples: People had little incentive to save. financial/economic incentives The government should provide incentives for education.

constraint

(noun)something that limits what you can do. Dictionary examples: budget/financial constraints. There are constraints on the medicines doctors can prescribe.

indicator

(noun)something that shows what a situation is like. Dictionary example: Commodity prices can be a useful indicator of inflation.

deterrent

(noun)something that stops people doing something because they are afraid of what will happen if they do. Dictionary example: They've installed a security camera as a deterrent to thieves.

aspiration

(noun)something that you hope to achieve. Dictionary example: I've never had any political aspirations.

entity

(noun)something which exists apart from other things. Dictionary example: They want the area recognized as a separate political entity.

backing

(noun)support, especially money, for a person or plan. Dictionary examples: financial backing The proposal has the backing of the mayor.

empathy

(noun)the ability to imagine what it must be like to be in someone's situation. Dictionary example: He lacks empathy.

endurance

(noun)the ability to keep doing something difficult, unpleasant, or painful for a long time. Dictionary example: a race to test athletes' endurance

intellect

(noun)the ability to learn and understand something, and to form ideas, judgments, and opinions about what you have learned. Dictionary example: His energy and intellect are respected by many people.

imprisonment

(noun)the action of putting someone in prison, or keeping someone in prison. Dictionary example: We were shocked by the imprisonment of the young students.

for all

despite. Dictionary example: For all her qualifications, she's useless at the job.

disposable income

(noun)the amount of money that you have available to spend after tax, rent and other basic things that you must pay. Dictionary example: Most of our customers have a large disposable income.

life span

(noun)the amount of time that a person lives or a thing exists. Dictionary examples: The average human life span has increased steadily over the last century. Some electrical products have a short life span.

influx

(noun)the arrival of a lot of people or things at the same time. Dictionary example: The town's economy depends on the summer influx of tourists.

materialism

(noun)the belief that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life. Dictionary example: She was saddened by the materialism of our society.

heritage

(noun)the buildings, paintings, customs, etc. which are important in a culture or society because they have existed for a long time. Dictionary example: our architectural/cultural/religious heritage

roll your eyes

disapproving to move your eyes in a circle to show surprise or disapproval. Dictionary example: When I asked her when she thought the building work would be finished, she just rolled her eyes.

in the fast lane

doing or getting the things that lead to rapid success and advancement. Dictionary examples: Their hard work and successful software put them in the fast lane. Fed up with life in the fast lane, Jack gave up his job and moved to the countryside.

immune system

(noun)the cells and other parts of the body that work together to protect the body against infection. Dictionary example: Healthy eating will help boost your immune system.

likelihood

(noun)the chance that something will happen. Dictionary examples: There's little likelihood of a compromise. There's not much likelihood of that happening.

complexion

(noun)the color and appearance of the skin on someone's face. Dictionary example: a clear complexion

frown

(noun)the expression on your face when you frown. Dictionary example: He looked at me with a puzzled frown.

irritation

(noun)the feeling of being annoyed, or something that makes you annoyed. Dictionary examples: minor irritations That kind of behavior is sure to cause irritation.

intuition

(noun)the feeling that you know something without being able to explain why. Dictionary example: Her approach to childcare is based on intuition.

counseling

(noun)the job or process of listening to people and giving them advice about their problems. Dictionary example: a counseling service

massacre

(noun)the killing of a lot of people. Dictionary example: He ordered the massacre of over 2,000 women and children.

melody

(noun)the main tune in a piece of music that is often played or sung more than once. Dictionary example: He played a beautiful melody.

gasp

(noun)the noise that someone makes when they gasp. Dictionary example: a gasp of surprise

coastline

(noun)the part of the land along the edge of the sea. Dictionary example: a rocky coastline

lure

(noun)the power to attract people. Dictionary example: the lure of fame/power/money

implementation

(noun)the process of putting a plan or system is put into operation. Dictionary example: Implementation of the new computer system went smoothly.

classification

(noun)the process of putting people or things into groups by their type, size, etc., or one of these groups. Dictionary example: the classification of plants

clarity

(noun)the quality of being clear and easy to understand. Dictionary example: She described the process with great clarity.

clumsiness

(noun)the quality of being clumsy. Dictionary example: The accident was caused by her clumsiness.

individuality

(noun)the quality of being different from others. Dictionary example: The houses had no character and no individuality.

intensity

(noun)the quality of being felt strongly or having a very strong effect. Dictionary example: the intensity of the blaze

humility

(noun)the quality of not being proud or not thinking that you are better than other people. Dictionary example: Try to show a little humility.

astronomy

(noun)the scientific study of stars and planets. Dictionary example: This is the biggest step forward in astronomy since Galileo's first telescope over four hundred years ago.

craziness

(noun)the state of being crazy. Dictionary example: I couldn't stand the craziness of their household.

cheerfulness

(noun)the state of being happy or bright and pleasant to look at Dictionary example: His cheerfulness made us all feel better.

homelessness

(noun)the state of being homeless. Dictionary example: The government is trying to tackle homelessness.

mediocrity

(noun)the state of being mediocre. Dictionary example: I was shocked by the mediocrity of these students.

insecurity

(noun)the state of not being confident or not feeling safe. Dictionary example: We have to live with the insecurity of not knowing if we'll still have a job next week.

deprivation

(noun)the state of not having enough of something. Dictionary example: sleep deprivation

expenditure

(noun)the total amount of money that a person, business, group, etc., spends. Dictionary examples: a large expenditure of funds Expenditures on health care and insurance continue to increase.

disposition

(noun)the type of character someone has. Dictionary example: a cheerful/nervous disposition

dispute

(noun)the type of character someone has. Dictionary example: a cheerful/nervous disposition

instinct

(noun)the way someone naturally reacts or behaves, without having to think or learn about it. Dictionary example: a mother's instinct to protect her children

give-and-take

(noun)the willingness to accept some of another person's ideas and give up some of your own. Dictionary example: Any successful negotiation involves some give-and-take.

grin

(noun)to accept an unpleasant or difficult situation because there is nothing you can do to improve it. Dictionary example: I hate my job, but I'm just going to have to grin and bear it for a while.

dice

(noun)two small objects each with six equal square sides that have between one and six spots on them, used in games. Dictionary example: Roll the dice to see who starts the game.

denial

(noun)when you say that something is not true. Dictionary example: a denial of his guilt

bias

(noun)when you support or oppose someone or something in an unfair way because you are influenced by your personal opinions. Dictionary examples: Some people feel news coverage always reflects a reporter's bias. bias *in* the media/news/press. Well, I'm biased *in favor of* jazz music. a bias *against/toward* private education

lumber

(noun)wood cut into sizes to be used for building. Dictionary examples: We can buy most of the lumber precut to the lengths we will need. a lumber mill/yard/company

amid

(preposition)AMONG.among. Dictionary example: a village set amid rolling hills

beyond

(preposition)AMOUNT.in a degree or amount that is greater than can be done, described, understood, etc. Dictionary examples: That old computer is beyond repair. Her singing is beyond compare. beyond description/question.

before

(preposition)IMPORTANCE.treated as more important than someone or something. Dictionary example: They always put the children's needs before their own.

after

(preposition)NAMED FOR.used when giving someone or something the same name as another person or thing. Dictionary examples: She's named after her aunt. It was called the Biko building, after the famous South African.

behind

(preposition)NOT AFFECTING.If a bad experience or your own bad behavior is behind you, it does not exist or affect your life now. Dictionary example: He's put his troubled past behind him.

beneath

(preposition)NOT GOOD ENOUGH.not good enough or of not enough importance for you notice or to spend you time on. Dictionary example: He thinks housework is beneath him.

it

(pronoun) EMPHASIZE. used to emphasize one part of a sentence. Dictionary example: It's the children I'm concerned about, not me.

confront

(verb) ACCUSE.to tell someone something, or show them something to try to make them admit they have done something wrong. Dictionary example: Confronted with the evidence, she broke down and confessed.

meet

(verb) ACHIEVE.[T] to be able to achieve something. Dictionary examples: He met every goal he set for himself. I've got a deadline to meet. Do you think we will be able to meet our target?

land

(verb) ACHIEVE.[T] to get or achieve something, usually something good. Dictionary example: He's just landed a new job.

concede

(verb) ADMIT.to admit that something is true, even though you do not want to. Dictionary example: Even the company chairman concedes that the results are disappointing.

color

(verb) AFFECT. to influence something or affect what someone does, says, or feels. Dictionary example: The report is colored by the fiscal crises of the last four years.

leave

(verb) AFTER DEATH.to arrange for someone to receive something after you die. Dictionary example: He left his nieces all his money./He left all his money to his nieces.

contract

(verb) AGREEMENT.[I or T] to make a legal agreement with someone to do work or to have work done for you. Dictionary example: He's been contracted to perform in five shows.

hop

(verb) ANIMAL.If a small animal, bird, or insect hops, it moves by jumping on all of its feet at the same time. Dictionary example: Rabbits were hopping across the field.

flash

(verb) APPEAR.[I or T] ( also flash up) to appear for a short time, or to make something appear for a short time. Dictionary example: An error message flashed on the screen.

loom

(verb) APPEAR.to appear as a large, sometimes frightening shape. Dictionary example: Dark storm clouds loomed on the horizon.

conceive

(verb) BABY.[I or T] to become pregnant. Dictionary example: She had been trying for years, but never managed to conceive.

judge

(verb) BAD OPINION.[I or T] to have a bad opinion of someone's behavior, often because you think you are better than them. Dictionary example: What gives you the right to judge people?

found

(verb) BASE.to base something on a set of ideas or beliefs. Dictionary example: a society founded on principles of equality

count

(verb) BE ACCEPTED.[I] to be accepted or allowed as part of something. Dictionary example: I've been to sixteen different countries, but I only spent half an hour in Luxembourg, so that doesn't really count.

fall

(verb) BE DEFEATED.to be defeated and start to be controlled by a different leader. Dictionary example: The city fell to the enemy.

imply

(verb) BE PART OF.to involve something as a necessary part or condition. Dictionary example: Democracy implies free elections.

lead

(verb) BE THE BEST.[I or T] to be better than anyone else. Dictionary example: I still believe that we lead the world in acting talent.

coincide

(verb) BE THE SAME.When people's opinions or ideas coincide, they are the same. Dictionary example: Luckily, our views coincided.

form

(verb) BE.[T] to be the thing talked about or be part of it. Dictionary examples: The Alps form a natural barrier between Italy and Switzerland. Her diary forms the basis of the book.

invade

(verb) BECOME INVOLVED.[T] to become a part of someone's life without them asking for or wanting the involvement. Dictionary example: Computers are invading our lives.

break

(verb) BECOME KNOWN.[I or T] If news or a story breaks, or if someone breaks it, it becomes known by the public for the first time. Dictionary examples: News of the scandal broke just before the election. The newspaper reporters who broke the story won the Pulitzer prize.

dissolve

(verb) BECOME LIQUID. [I or T] If a solid dissolves, it becomes part of a liquid, and if you dissolve it, you make it become part of a liquid. Dictionary example: These tablets dissolve in water.

fall

(verb) BECOME WORSE.to become worse, or start to be in a bad situation or condition. Dictionary examples: Education standards are continuing to fall. Empty for 30 years, the building had fallen into ruin.

anchor

(verb) BOAT.to stop a boat from moving by dropping a heavy metal object into the water.Every night we used to anchor [i]n different bays to spend the night.

gasp

(verb) BREATHE WITH DIFFICULTY.to breathe loudly and with difficulty trying to get more air. Dictionary example: He clutched his heart, gasping for breath.

assemble

(verb) BUILD. [T] to build something by joining parts together. Dictionary example: Their furniture is easy to assemble.

address

(verb) BUILDING DETAILS.to write a name and address on an envelope or package. Dictionary example: I spent the morning addressing wedding invitations.

hail

(verb) CALL.to call or wave to someone to get their attention. Dictionary example: You wait here while I hail a cab.

collapse

(verb) FAIL.to fail to work or succeed. Dictionary example: The peace talks have collapsed.

anchor

(verb) FASTEN.to make something or someone stay in one position by fastening them firmly. Dictionary example: We anchored ourselves to the rocks with a rope.

display

(verb) FEELING.[T] to show how you feel by your expression or behavior. Dictionary example: He doesn't display much emotion.

clash

(verb) FIGHT.[I] to fight or argue. Dictionary examples: Government troops clashed with rebel soldiers. Many young people clash with their parents over what time they must be home at night.

jam

(verb) FILL.[T often passive] to fill a place completely. Dictionary examples: The streets were jammed with cars. Thousands of fans jammed into the stadium to hear the band.

drain

(verb) FLOW AWAY.[I] If something drains, liquid flows away or out of it. Dictionary example: Don't bother drying the pans - just leave them to drain.

escape

(verb) FORGET.[T] If something such as a name escapes you, you cannot remember it. Dictionary example: The name of her book escapes me at the moment.

inherit

(verb) FROM DEAD PERSON.[I or T] to receive money or possessions from someone after that person has died. Dictionary examples: Who will inherit the house when he dies? All her children will inherit equally.

house

(verb) GIVE HOME.to give a person or animal a place to live. Dictionary example: This development will house over 100 families.

concede

(verb) GIVE.to allow someone to have something, even though you do not want to. Dictionary example: The government will not concede to rebel demands.

enjoy

(verb) GOOD SITUATION.(formal) to have or experience something good such as success Dictionary example: His play enjoyed great success on Broadway.

assemble

(verb) GROUP.[I or T] to join other people somewhere to make a group, or to bring people together into a group. Dictionary example: They assembled in the meeting room after lunch.

know

(verb) GUESS CORRECTLY.[T] to guess something correctly. Dictionary example: I should have known he wouldn't come.

fall

(verb) HANG DOWN.to hang down Dictionary example: Her long hair fell softly over her shoulders.

coincide

(verb) HAPPEN TOGETHER.to happen at the same time as something else. Dictionary example: The band's American tour coincided with the release of their second album.

develop

(verb) HAPPEN.[I] to start to happen or exist. Dictionary example: Further problems may develop if you do not deal with this now.

compromise

(verb) HARM.[T] formal to have a harmful effect on something. Dictionary example: The trial has been seriously compromised by sensational media coverage.

bear

(verb) HAVE CHILD.(formal)to give birth to a child. Dictionary example: She has been told that she will never bear children.

boast

(verb) HAVE.[T] If a place boasts something good, it has it. Dictionary example: New York boasts some of the best museums in the world.

carry

(verb) HAVE.to have something as a part, quality, or result of something. Dictionary examples: All cigarette advertising must carry a government health warning. Murder still carries the death penalty there.

disguise

(verb) HIDE.to hide something such as a feeling or opinion. Dictionary example: She couldn't disguise her disappointment.

cling

(verb) HOLD TIGHT.to hold someone or something tightly, especially because you are frightened. Dictionary examples: She was found clinging to the ledge. I clung on to his hand in the dark.

embrace

(verb) HOLD.If you embrace someone, you put your arms around them, and if two people embrace, they put their arms around each other. Dictionary example: She embraced him warmly.

hail

(verb) ICE.If it hails, small, hard pieces of frozen rain fall from the sky. Dictionary example: It hailed for a few minutes this morning.

click

(verb) IDEA. [I] informal to suddenly understand something. Dictionary example: Suddenly everything clicked and I realized where I'd met him.

conceive

(verb) IDEA.[T] to think of an idea or plan. Dictionary example: The original idea for the novel was conceived in Rome.

conceive

(verb) IMAGINE.[I or T] to be able to imagine something. Dictionary example: I cannot conceive of anything more horrible.

count

(verb) INCLUDE.[T] to include something or someone in a calculation. Dictionary example: There are 1500 people at my school, counting teachers.

attach

(verb) INCLUDE.to include something as part of something else. Dictionary example: There were too many conditions attached to the deal.

crawl

(verb) INSECT. If an insect crawls, it uses its legs to move. Dictionary example: There's an ant crawling up your leg.

grip

(verb) INTEREST.to keep someone's attention completely. Dictionary example: This trial has gripped the whole nation.

connect

(verb) INVOLVE.[T] to see or show that two or more people or things are involved with each other. Dictionary example: There is no evidence to connect him with the crime.

measure

(verb) JUDGE.[T] to judge the quality, effect, importance, or value of something. Dictionary examples: We will soon be able to measure the results of these policies. They measured the performance of three different engines.

execute

(verb) KILL.to kill someone as a legal punishment. Dictionary example: He was executed for murder.

dazzle

(verb) LIGHT.If light dazzles someone, it makes them unable to see for a short time. Dictionary example: He was dazzled by the car's headlights.

cast

(verb) LIGHT.to make people feel uncertain about someone or something. Dictionary examples: Witnesses have cast doubt on the suspect's innocence. A leading scientist has cast doubts on government claims that the medication is safe.

cross

(verb) LINE/BORDER.[I or T] to travel over a border or line into a different area, country, etc. Dictionary example: They crossed from Albania into Greece.

bubble

(verb) LIQUID.If a liquid bubbles, balls of air or gas rise to its surface. Dictionary example: The soup was bubbling on the stove.

compensate

(verb) MAKE BETTER.[I or T] to reduce the bad effect of something, or make something bad become something good. Dictionary example: Nothing will ever compensate for his lost childhood.

differentiate

(verb) MAKE DIFFERENT.[T] to make someone or something different. Dictionary example: We need to differentiate ourselves from the competition.

gasp

(verb) MAKE NOISE.to make a noise by suddenly breathing in because you are shocked or surprised. Dictionary example: She gasped in horror as the car spun out of control.

drain

(verb) MAKE TIRED.[T] to make someone very tired. Dictionary example: The long journey drained him.

drive

(verb) MAKE WORK. [T] to provide the power or energy that makes someone or something work. Dictionary example: She was driven by greed and ambition.

mingle

(verb) MIX.[I or T] to mix, or be mixed. Dictionary example: The smell of coffee mingled with fresh-baked bread.

circle

(verb) MOVE. [I or T] to move in a circle, often around something. Dictionary example: Birds circled above the trees.

accompany

(verb) MUSIC.to play music to support someone else who is playing or singing. Dictionary example: He accompanied me on the piano.

escape

(verb) NOT NOTICE.If something escapes your notice or attention, you do not notice or see it. Dictionary example: Nothing that goes on in this office escapes her attention.

allow

(verb) NOT PREVENT.[T] to not prevent something from happening. Dictionary example: They have allowed the problem to get worse.

lean

(verb) NOT VERTICAL.to be in a position that is not straight or vertical. Dictionary example: That fence is leaning to the right.

discriminate

(verb) NOTICE.to notice a difference between two things. Dictionary example: Police dogs are very good at discriminating between different smells.

count

(verb) NUMBER.[C] when you count something, or the total number you get after counting. Dictionary example: At the last count there were 410 club members.

mark

(verb) ON SMALL AREA.to put a spot, color, ink, dirt, etc., on a small area of something. Dictionary example: Sale items are marked with red on the tags.

hop

(verb) ONE FOOT.to jump on one foot or to move about in this way. Dictionary example: He hopped across the room.

click

(verb) PEOPLE.[I] informal If two people click, they like each other immediately. Dictionary example: We met in college and we just clicked.

infect

(verb) PLACE/SUBSTANCE.If a place, wound, or substance is infected, it contains bacteria or other things that can cause disease. Dictionary examples: The wound became infected. an infected toe

formulate

(verb) PLAN.to develop all the details of a plan for doing something. Dictionary example: They formulated a plan to save the company.

applaud

(verb) PRAISE

hail

(verb) PRAISE.to publicly praise or show approval for someone or something. Dictionary example: Heppner has been hailed as one of the finest tenors in the operatic world today.

fake

(verb) PRETEND.to pretend that something has happened when it has not or to pretend to have a feeling that you do not have. Dictionary examples: They faked illness to avoid having to work. He said he was feeling sick, but he was just faking it.

discourage

(verb) PREVENT.to try to prevent something from happening. Dictionary example: Higher taxes could discourage business investment.

leave

(verb) PRODUCE SITUATION.to produce a particular, often bad, situation. Dictionary examples: Far from improving things, the new law has left many people worse off than before. Storms have left areas of Britain without electricity. The family were left homeless.

house

(verb) PROVIDE SPACE.to provide space for something. Dictionary example: The museum houses a huge collection of paintings.

inherit

(verb) QUALITY.[T] to have the same physical or mental characteristics as one of your parents or grandparents. Dictionary example: Miranda has inherited her father's red hair.

greet

(verb) REACT.to react to something in a particular way. Dictionary example: His story was greeted with shrieks of laughter.

a free hand

permission to make your own decisions about how you want to do something. Dictionary example: The students were given a free hand as far as designing their projects was concerned.

invite

(verb) REACTION. to do something that is likely to cause a particular reaction or result, especially a bad one. Dictionary example: Unconventional ideas often invite attack/criticism.

drain

(verb) REDUCE.[I or T] to reduce or cause something to reduce. Dictionary example: The long war had drained the resources of both countries.

convert

(verb) RELIGION.to change to a new religion, belief, etc., or to make someone do this. Dictionary example: When did he convert to Islam?

drain

(verb) REMOVE LIQUID.[T] to remove the liquid from something, usually by pouring it away or allowing it to flow away. Dictionary examples: Drain the pasta and add the sauce. We drained the pond and filled it with fresh water.

erode

(verb) REMOVE. [I or T] If soil, stone, etc., erodes or is eroded, it is gradually damaged by water or wind. Dictionary example: The coastline is slowly being eroded.

filter

(verb) REMOVE.[T] to pass a liquid or gas through a piece of equipment in order to remove solid pieces or other substances. Dictionary example: The water was filtered to remove any impurities.

consent

(verb)to agree to do something, or to allow someone to do something. Dictionary example: They eventually consented to let us enter.

assault

(verb)to attack someone violently. Dictionary example: He was assaulted by a minor who cannot be named.

charm

(verb)to attract someone or persuade someone to do something because of your charm. Dictionary example: We were charmed by his boyish manner.

arch

(verb)to be a curved shape or make something become a curved shape. Dictionary example: The bridge arched over the river.

merit

(verb)to be important enough to receive attention or punishment. Dictionary example: Her crimes were serious enough to merit a prison sentence.

coin

(verb)to be the first person who uses a new word or phrase. Dictionary example: The Czech playwright, Capek, coined the word "robot."

excel

(verb)to be very good at something. Dictionary examples: Paula excelled at when she was in school. The lead dancer really excelled.

flatten

(verb)to become flat or to make something become flat. Dictionary example: Roll out the dough into balls and flatten them slightly.

intensify

(verb)to become greater, more serious, or more extreme, or to make something do this. Dictionary example: The fighting has intensified in the last two weeks.

intervene

(verb)to become involved in a situation in order to try to stop a fight, argument, problem, etc. Dictionary examples: Government officials refused to intervene in the recent disputes. Harris intervened to stop the attack.

intrude

(verb)to become involved in a situation which people want to be private. Dictionary examples: I don't mean to intrude, but are you okay? They should not have intruded on the family's grief. He was fed up with the media intruding into his life.

dim

(verb)to become less bright, or to make something become less bright. Dictionary example: He dimmed the lights and turned up the music.

loosen

(verb)to become loose or make something loose. Dictionary example: He loosened his tie.

commence

(verb)to begin something. Dictionary examples: Building work will commence in the fall. Shall we let the meeting commence?

erupt

(verb)to burst out suddenly or explode. Dictionary example: The crowd erupted in cheers.

equate

(verb)to consider one thing to be the same as or equal to another thing. Dictionary example: Many people equate wealth with happiness.

constrain

(verb)to control something by limiting it. Dictionary examples: regulations that constrain industry I'm constrained by decisions made in the past.

dice

(verb)to cut food into small, square pieces. Dictionary example: diced onions

convict

(verb)to decide officially in a court of law that someone is guilty of a particular crime. Dictionary example: He was convicted of murder.

deduce

(verb)to decide that something is true using the available information. Dictionary example: From the contents of his shopping basket, I deduced that he was single.

eradicate

(verb)to destroy or completely get rid of something such as a social problem or a disease. Dictionary example: The government claims to be doing all it can to eradicate corruption.

disqualify

(verb)to disagree with something someone says. Dictionary example: I don't dispute that his films are entertaining.

commemorate

(verb)to do something to show you remember an important person or event in the past with respect. Dictionary example: a ceremony to commemorate the battle

go overboard

(verb)to do something too much, or to be too excited about something. Dictionary example: I think I went overboard cooking this dinner - there is enough to feed a dozen people.

advocate

(verb)to express support for a particular idea or way of doing things. Dictionary example: I certainly wouldn't advocate the use of violence.

dread

(verb)to feel worried or frightened about something that has not happened yet. Dictionary examples: I'm dreading the first day at my new school. I dread running into them again.

blackmail

(verb)to force someone to do something by using blackmail. Dictionary example: They used the photographs to blackmail her into spying for them.

line

(verb)to form a row along the side of something. Dictionary example: Trees and cafes lined the street.

disclose

(verb)to give new or secret information to someone. Dictionary example: He refused to disclose details of the report.

delegate

(verb)to give someone else part of your work or some of your responsibilities. Dictionary example: He needs to learn to delegate or he'll never get everything done.

infer

(verb)to guess that something is true because of the information that you have. Dictionary example: I inferred from the number of cups that he was expecting visitors.

loathe

(verb)to hate someone or something. Dictionary example: I absolutely loathe swimming.

conceal

(verb)to hide something. Dictionary examples: The listening device was concealed in a pen. She could barely conceal her irritation.

clutch

(verb)to hold something tightly. Dictionary example: She clutched a coin.

incorporate

(verb)to include something as part of another thing. Dictionary example: He began to incorporate dance and mime into his plays.

maximize

(verb)to increase something as much as you can. Dictionary example: to maximize profits

deem

(verb)to judge or consider something in a particular way. Dictionary example: The book was deemed appropriate for children ages six to eight.

fluctuate

(verb)to keep changing, especially in level or amount. Dictionary example: Oil prices have fluctuated wildly in recent weeks.

giggle

(verb)to laugh in a nervous or silly way. Dictionary example: She started giggling and couldn't stop.

curb

(verb)to limit or control something. Dictionary example: to curb crime/inflation

glare

(verb)to look at someone in an angry way. Dictionary example: She glared at him and stormed out of the room.

incur

(verb)to lose money, owe money, or have to pay money because of something that has happened. Dictionary example: The company incurred huge losses as a result of its investments.

groan

(verb)to make a long, low sound such as when expressing pain, unhappiness, etc. Dictionary example: He collapsed, groaning with pain.

condition

(verb)to make a person or animal behave in a particular way by influencing the way they think. Dictionary example: The boys were conditioned to be aggressive.

carve

(verb)to make an object, a shape, or a pattern by cutting wood, stone, etc. Dictionary examples: The statue was carved out of stone. They had carved their initials into the tree.

hinder

(verb)to make it difficult to do something or for something to develop. Dictionary example: His performance at the Olympics was hindered by a knee injury.

embarrass

(verb)to make someone feel ashamed or shy. Dictionary example: My dad's always embarrassing me in front of my friends.

comfort

(verb)to make someone feel better when they are anxious or sad. Dictionary example: The family of the dead are being comforted by friends.

arouse

(verb)to make someone have a particular feeling or reaction. Dictionary example: It's a subject which has aroused a lot of interest.

initiate

(verb)to make something begin. Dictionary example: The reforms were initiated by Gorbachev.

further

(verb)to make something develop or become more successful. Dictionary example: He'll do anything to further his career.

bid

(verb)to offer to pay an amount of money for something. Dictionary example: They bid $500 million for the company.

issue

(verb)to officially say something or give someone something. Dictionary examples: The office will be issuing parking permits on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The fire department issued a statement about its plans.

lure

(verb)to persuade someone to go somewhere or do something by offering them something exciting. Dictionary examples: It seems that he was lured into a trap. The university hopes to lure a new coach with an attractive salary package.

gesture

(verb)to point at something or express something using your hand, arm, or head. Dictionary example: He gestured toward the window.

crush

(verb)to press something so hard that it is made flat or broken into pieces. Dictionary example: Her car was crushed by a falling tree.

deduction

(noun) FACT.to decide that something is true using the available information. Dictionary example: From the contents of his shopping basket, I deduced that he was single.

act

(noun) FALSE BEHAVIOR.behavior that hides your real feelings or intentions. Dictionary example: Was she really upset or was that just an act?

dawn on sb

If a fact dawns on you, you become aware of it after a period of not being aware of it. Dictionary example: It finally dawned on him that she'd been joking.

go/run deep

If a feeling or a problem goes deep, it is very strong or serious and has existed for a long time. Dictionary example: Their commitment to this town runs deep.

in force

If a law, rule, etc. is in force, it exists and is being used. Dictionary example: New regulations limiting fishing on this river are now in force.

come down to sth/doing sth

If a situation, problem, decision, etc. comes down to something, then that is the thing that will influence it most. Dictionary example: The success of the venture comes down to the commitment of those involved.

be no laughing matter

If a subject is no laughing matter, it is serious and not something that people should joke about. Dictionary example: Being late for a job interview is no laughing matter.

dry up

If a supply of something dries up, it ends. Dictionary example: The work dried up and he went out of business.

ring a bell

If a word, especially a name, rings a bell, you think you have heard it before. Dictionary example: Shane Watson? That name rings a bell.

fall on deaf ears

If advice or a request falls on deaf ears, people ignore it. Dictionary example: Our pleas for help fell on deaf ears.

be born

If an idea is born, it starts to exist. Dictionary example: The idea for the business was born during a trip to Alaska.

in the name of sth

If bad things are done in the name of something, they are done in order to help that thing succeed. Dictionary example: Are you willing to work yourself to death in the name of competition?

be (like) water off a duck's back

If criticisms, insults, etc. are like water off a duck's back to you, they do not affect you at all. Dictionary example: She calls him lazy and useless, but it's like water off a duck's back.

come to light

If information about something bad comes to light, it is learned or discovered. Dictionary example: She knew that the fraud would eventually come to light.

bring (sth) to light

If information is brought to light, it is learned or discovered. Dictionary example: Her research has brought to light new information about Jefferson's early life.

come through

If information, a result, or a document comes through, you receive it. Dictionary example: Have the results of the tests come through yet?

by/in leaps and bounds

If progress or growth happens in leaps and bounds, it happens very quickly. Dictionary example: The company is growing by leaps and bounds this year.

come in for sth

If someone comes in for criticism, praise, etc., they are criticized, praised, etc. Dictionary example: He came in for a lot of criticism for his remarks.

cry your eyes out

If someone cries their eyes out, they cry a lot about a problem or situation. Dictionary example: When she heard the fire had destroyed the houses, she cried her eyes out.

be at a premium

If something useful is at a premium, there is not enough of it. Dictionary example: Time is at a premium just before the start of exams.

die down

If something, especially noise or excitement, dies down, it gradually becomes less loud or strong until it stops. Dictionary example: She waited for the laughter to die down before she spoke.

the jury is (still) out

If the jury is (still) out on a subject, people do not yet know the answer or have a definite opinion about it. Dictionary example: The jury's still out on whether these vitamins protect against cancer.

drift across/down/toward, etc.

If two people drift apart, they gradually become less friendly and the relationship ends. Dictionary example: Roz used to be one of my closest friends, but we've drifted apart.

drift apart

If two people drift apart, they gradually become less friendly and the relationship ends. Dictionary example: Roz used to be one of my closest friends, but we've drifted apart.

see eye to eye (with sb)

If two people see eye to eye, they agree with each other. Dictionary example: My sister didn't see eye to eye with me.

sb's/sth's clutches

If you are in someone or something's clutches, they control you, often in an evil way. Dictionary example: Keep your children out of his clutches.

make of sb/sth

If you ask someone what they make of someone or something, you want to know their opinion about that person or thing. Dictionary examples: What do you make of this letter? I don't know what to make of him.

blow it/your chance(s)

If you blow it or blow your chance, you lose an opportunity to do something by doing or saying the wrong thing. Dictionary examples: I guess I blew it when I told my teacher I didn't care what grade she gave me. Tom blew his chances of getting the job by arriving late for the interview.

cannot afford

If you cannot afford to do something, it is impossible for you to do it without causing problems. Dictionary example: We can't afford to take that risk.

against all odds

If you do or achieve something against all the odds, you succeed although you were not likely to. Dictionary example: We won the game against all odds.

with a heavy heart

If you do or say something with a heavy heart, you feel very sad or anxious. Dictionary example: It was with a heavy heart that he packed his bags and left his home of many years.

against sb's advice/wishes, etc.

If you do something against someone's advice, wishes, etc., you do it although they have said you should not or must not. Dictionary examples: He flew there against his doctor's advice. She sold the house even though it was against his wishes.

at your own risk

If you do something at your own risk, you are completely responsible for anything bad that might happen because of it. Dictionary example: Customers may leave vehicles here at their own risk.

behind sb's back

If you do something behind someone's back, you do it without them knowing, often in an unfair way. Dictionary example: Have they been saying things about me behind my back?

in memory of sb

If you do something in memory of a dead person, you do it to show your respect or love for them. Dictionary example: They built a statue in memory of those who died in the fire.

of your own accord

If you do something of your own accord, you choose to do it and no one else forces you. Dictionary example: She left of her own accord.

to/till/until the bitter end

If you do something to/till/until the bitter end, you continue it until it is finished, although it is difficult and takes a long time. Dictionary example: The president fought for his plan to the bitter end.

a change of heart

If you have a change of heart, you change your opinion or feelings about something. Dictionary example: At first he said he wouldn't help us, but he seems to have had a c~ of heart.

a narrow escape

If you have a narrow escape, you only just avoid danger. Dictionary example: He had a narrow escape when a falling tree crushed his car.

at your fingertips

If you have something at your fingertips, you can get it and use it very easily. Dictionary example: He had all the information needed at his fingertips.

keep sth to yourself

If you keep something to yourself, you do not tell anyone else about it. Dictionary example: She usually keeps her opinions to herself.

read between the lines

If you read between the lines, you understand what something really means when it hasn't been directly said or written. Dictionary example: Reading between the lines, it was obvious that something was wrong.

under your breath

If you say something under your breath, you say it very quietly so that other people cannot clearly hear it. Dictionary example: "It's time to go," she muttered under her breath.

not hold water

If you say that an argument doesn't hold water, you mean that it can't be true. Dictionary example: The jury convicted her because her story just didn't hold water.

take sth to heart

If you take criticism or advice to heart, you think about it seriously. Dictionary example: Don't take it to heart - he was only joking about your hair.

at length

If you talk about something at length, you talk for a long time. Dictionary example: We discussed both topics at length.

in confidence

If you tell something to someone in confidence, you do not want them to tell anyone else. Dictionary example: I'm sorry, she told me that in confidence.

hold sb/sth back

PREVENT PROGRESS.to prevent someone or something from making progress. Dictionary example: She felt staying in the same job would hold her back.

account for sth

REASON.to be the reason for something, or to explain the reason for something. Dictionary examples: Can you account for your absence last Friday? He'd had an argument with Caroline, which accounts for his bad mood this morning. She was asked to account for the missing money.

come over

SEEM.to seem to be a particular type of person. Dictionary example: Henry came over as a real enthusiast.

lay sth out or lay out sth

SPEND.to spend money, especially if it seems like a large amount. Dictionary example: He has laid out $40,000 to fund Little League teams in California.

not least

especially. Dictionary example: The whole trip was fascinating, not least because of the people I met.

in anticipation (of)

expecting something to happen or in preparation for something happening. Dictionary example: She's even decorated the spare room in anticipation of your visit.

in the blink of an eye

extremely quickly. Dictionary example: In the blink of an eye, he was gone.

ill at ease

feeling anxious and not relaxed. Dictionary example: He looked ill at ease in the room full of reporters.

in good/great, etc. form

feeling or performing well. Dictionary example: He was in great form and won the golf tournament by 7 strokes.

be without foundation; have no foundation

formal If something is without foundation, there is no proof that it is true. Dictionary example: The allegations are completely without foundation.

artistically/technically, etc. inclined

having natural artistic/technical, etc. ability. Dictionary example: She's very curious, but not academically inclined.

down and out

having no money, no luck and no opportunities. Dictionary example: Nobody loves you when you're down and out.

at a disadvantage

having problems that other people do not have. Dictionary example: Being shy puts him at a disadvantage.

consistent with sth

having the same principles as something else, or agreeing with other facts. Dictionary example: His account of events is entirely consistent with the video evidence.

ethics

ideas and beliefs about what type of behavior is morally right and wrong. Dictionary examples: a code of ethics the ethics of genetic engineering

if need be

if it is necessary. Dictionary example: If need be, we can take two cars.

get the hang of sth

informal to learn how to do something, especially if it is not obvious or simple. Dictionary example: I've never used one of these before. - Don't worry, you'll soon get the hang of it.

Don't you dare

informal used to tell someone strongly not to do something. Dictionary example: Don't you dare hit your sister!

the length and breadth of sth

in every part of a place. Dictionary example: They traveled the length and breadth of Scotland together.

back and forth

in one direction and then in the opposite direction, often many times. Dictionary examples: She swayed back and forth to the music. She drove back and forth between Rochester and New York several times this summer.

in the interest of sth

in order to achieve a particular situation or quality. Dictionary example: In the interest of safety, passengers are advised to wear their seat belts at all times.

for sb's/sth's benefit / for the benefit of sb/sth

in order to help someone. Dictionary examples: We bought the piano for the children's benefit. She wanted her money to be used for the benefit of poor children.

at sb's expense

in order to make someone look stupid. Dictionary example: Stop making jokes at my expense.

in the vicinity (of sth)

in the area near a place. Dictionary example: A number of buildings in the vicinity of the fire were damaged.

in place

in the correct position. Dictionary example: The chairs are all in place.

early on

in the first stage or part of something . Dictionary example: It was a great race for Neil, who took the lead early on.

down the line

in the future. Dictionary example: Lots of things will have changed a few years down the road.

in your mind's eye

in your imagination or memory. Dictionary example: In my mind's eye, I imagined the building painted white, with a beautiful garden around it.

crack up

informal to become mentally ill. Dictionary example: We're worried he'll crack up completely if he doesn't get help.

drop dead

informal to die very suddenly. Dictionary example: He just dropped dead.

crack (sb) up

informal to laugh a lot or to make someone laugh a lot. Dictionary example: His impressions of my Dad really crack me up.

go with the flow

to do or accept what other people are doing because it is the easiest thing to do. Dictionary example: Just relax and go with the flow!

rock the boat

to do or say something that changes a situation in a way that causes problems. Dictionary example: They seemed very happy and I didn't want to rock the boat.

go through the motions

to do something because you are expected to do it and not because you want to. Dictionary example: Lately he seems to just go through the motions and doesn't enjoy the job at all.

do sth by the book

to do something exactly according to the rules. Dictionary example: The lawyers want to make sure we've done everything strictly by the book.

take the law into your own hands

to do something illegal in order to punish someone because you know that the law will not punish that person. Dictionary example: The police did nothing about the thefts, so they took the law into their own hands.

leave/make your mark

to do something that makes you successful or makes people notice you. Dictionary example: He really made his mark on the company.

assert your authority/control/independence, etc.

to do something to show other people that you have power. Dictionary example: She soon asserted her authority as leader.

do sth to excess

to do something too much. Dictionary example: It is best to avoid eating any one type of food to excess.

follow suit

to do the same as someone else has just done Dictionary example: If other shops lower their prices, we will have to follow suit.

follow in sb's footsteps

to do the same things in your life as someone else did, especially a member of your family. Dictionary example: He followed in his father's footsteps and became an actor.

feast on sth

to eat a lot of food and enjoy it very much. Dictionary example: We feasted on fried chicken, ice cream, and chocolate cake.

break free

to escape from someone or something that is controlling you. Dictionary example: She tried to break free from the social conditioning of her upbringing.

live through sth

to experience a difficult situation or event. Dictionary example: My grandparents lived through two world wars.

beside yourself

to experience a powerful emotion. Dictionary examples: He was beside himself when he found out his dog had died. He was beside himself with rage.

be in awe of sb

to feel great respect for and sometimes fear of someone. Dictionary example: As children we were rather in awe of our grandfather.

glow with happiness/pride, etc.

to feel very happy, proud, etc. Dictionary example: Glowing with pride, she showed me her painting.

feel faint

to feel very weak and as if you might fall down. Dictionary example: Seeing all the blood made me feel faint.

call up sth or call sth up

to find and show information on a computer screen. Dictionary example: Can you call up last year's sales figures on Janice's computer?

get/lay your hands on sth

to find something. Dictionary example: Do you know where I can lay my hands on a pair of scissors?

be/run counter to sth

to have an effect opposite to something else. Dictionary example: David's decision to drop out of school to write plays ran counter to his parent's expectations.

know better

to have enough experience not to do something stupid or something that will not achieve anything. Dictionary example: I thought she'd listen to me - I should have known better.

keep your head above water

to have just enough money to live or to continue a business. Dictionary example: With extra income from private sponsorship, the club is just about managing to keep its head above water.

to speak/think highly of sb/sth

to have or express a very good opinion of someone or something. Dictionary example: The course is very highly thought of.

be consumed by/with sth

to have so much of a feeling that it affects everything you do. Dictionary examples: a dancer consumed by ambition He was consumed with jealousy.

come to the/sb's rescue

to help someone who is in a difficult situation. Dictionary example: I forgot my purse but Anna came to the rescue and lent me some money.

hold onto sth/sb

to hold something firmly or to keep something. Dictionary examples: Hold onto the rope and don't let go. The team held onto first place with a 4-3 win last night.

keep your fingers crossed/cross your fingers

to hope that things will happen in the way that you want them to, and to put a finger over the one next to it as a sign of that hope. Dictionary examples: Let's keep our fingers crossed that she gets the job. We're crossing our fingers and hoping that the weather stays fine.

aspire to (do) sth

to hope to achieve something. Dictionary example: He has never aspired to a position of power.

get a move on

to hurry. Dictionary example: Come on, get a move on!

count sb in

to include someone in an activity. Dictionary example: If you're going for a pizza, you can count me in.

set fire to sth; set sth on fire

to make something start burning, usually to cause damage. Dictionary example: Enemy troops set fire to the village.

keep sb on their toes

to make sure that someone gives all their attention to what they are doing and is ready for anything that might happen. Dictionary example: We have random inspections to keep everyone on their toes.

make your blood boil

to make you extremely angry. Dictionary example: The way they have treated those people makes my blood boil.

bring a lump to your throat

to make you feel such strong emotion that you want to cry. Dictionary example: It was a very moving speech, and it brought a lump to my throat.

come through (sth)

to manage to get to the end of a difficult or dangerous situation. Dictionary example: We've had some hard times, but we've come through them.

keep a straight face

to manage to stop yourself from smiling or laughing. Dictionary example: I can never play jokes on people because I can't keep a straight face.

cross sb's path

to meet someone, especially by accident. Dictionary example: Mike has moved away and I doubt he'll ever cross my path again.

back off

to move away from someone, usually because you are afraid. Dictionary example: I saw he had a knife and backed off immediately.

back (sth) away/into/out, etc.

to move backward. Dictionary examples: When the dog growled, she backed away. He backed the car into a tree.

shed light on

to provide new information about something that makes it easier to understand. Dictionary example: As an economist, he was able to shed some light on the situation.

fill a need/gap/demand

to provide something that people need or want. Dictionary example: The new nursery is really filling a need.

draw sth/sb across/back/over, etc.

to pull something or someone gently in a particular direction. Dictionary example: He took her hand and drew her toward her sister.

teach sb a lesson

to punish someone so that they will not behave badly again. Dictionary example: The next time she's late, go without her. That should teach her a lesson.

tighten your belt

to spend less money. Dictionary example: Since I lost my job we've all had to tighten our belts.

associate with sb

to spend time with or have a connection with someone. Dictionary example: I don't want you associating with that crowd - they're always getting into trouble.

get/rise to your feet

to stand up after you have been sitting. Dictionary example: The audience rose to their feet.

get/start off on the wrong foot

to start a relationship or activity badly. Dictionary example: He got off on the wrong foot with my parents by arriving late.

crack down

to start dealing with bad or illegal behavior in a more severe way. Dictionary example: Police are cracking down on crime in the area.

dive into sth

to start doing something suddenly and energetically, often without stopping to think. Dictionary example: Unfortunately, I dove into the discussion without being fully informed.

turn over a new leaf

to start to behave in a better way. Dictionary example: I turned over a new leaf and began getting to work on time.

come to do sth

to start to do something or to reach a state after a period of time. Dictionary examples: I have come to rely on acupuncture. This place has come to be known as 'Pheasant Corner.'

come into being

to start to exist. Dictionary example: The Internet as we see it today did not come into being all at once, but developed over time.

let go (of sb/sth)

to stop holding someone or something. Dictionary examples: Hold onto the rope and don't let go! I let go of the feather and it floated to the ground.

cover (sth) up or cover up (sth)

to stop people from discovering the truth about something bad. Dictionary example: She tried to cover up her mistakes.

drop it/the subject

to stop talking about something, especially because it is annoying or upsetting someone. Dictionary example: I don't want to talk about it any more - let's drop the subject.

let go (of sth)

to stop thinking about, wanting, or being angry about something. Dictionary examples: I have tried to let go of the past. You've been angry for weeks not - it's time to let go now.

keep your temper

to succeed in staying calm and not becoming angry. Dictionary example: It was hard to keep my temper with so many things going wrong.

lose your cool

to suddenly become very angry. Dictionary example: She lost her cool and started shouting.

vanish/disappear into thin air

to suddenly disappear in a mysterious way. Dictionary example: He was on the path ahead of me and then vanished into thin air.

leap into/out of/up, etc.

to suddenly move somewhere. Dictionary examples: Flames were leaping into the sky. I leapt up to answer the phone.

burst into flames

to suddenly start burning. Dictionary example: The car plunged down a hill and burst into flames.

catch sb off guard

to surprise someone by doing something when they are not ready to deal with it. Dictionary example: The journalist caught him off guard and he admitted to lying.

assume control/power/responsibility, etc.

to take a position of control/power/responsibility, etc. Dictionary example: He has assumed the role of spokesman for the group.

throw caution to the wind

to take a risk. Dictionary example: I decided to throw caution to the wind and book a ticket to India.

fend for yourself

to take care of yourself without help. Dictionary example: When you go away to college, you have to learn to fend for yourself.

clean sth out or clean out sth

to take everything out of a room, car, container, etc. and clean the inside of it. Dictionary example: I cleaned out the fridge this morning.

engage in sth

to take part in something. Dictionary example: The two sides have agreed to engage in talks.

go so far as to do sth

to take the extreme action of doing something. Dictionary example: He even went so far as to stop her using the telephone.

make light of sth

to talk or behave as if you do not think a problem is serious. Dictionary example: I just laughed and tried to make light of it.

familiarize sb/yourself with sth

to teach someone more about something new, or try to understand more about it yourself. Dictionary example: We spent a few minutes familiarizing ourselves with the day's schedule.

break the news to sb

to tell someone about something new or important. Dictionary examples: When they broke the news of their engagement, their parents were was delighted. Who's going to break the news to his wife?

get sth off your chest

to tell someone about something that you have been worried or angry about for a long time. Dictionary example: Tell me what's wrong - you'll feel better if you get it off your chest.

put your foot down

to tell someone in a strong way that they must do something or must stop doing something. Dictionary example: When she started borrowing my clothes without asking, I had to put my foot down.

pay sb a compliment

to tell someone that you admire something about them. Dictionary example: He paid her several compliments about her painting.

open your heart

to tell someone your secret thoughts and feelings. Dictionary example: That night, she opened her heart to me.

ask yourself sth

to think about something carefully. Dictionary example: You've got to ask yourself whether it's what you really want.

look ahead

to think about what will happen in the future and plan for these events. Dictionary example: I'm looking ahead to next year and figuring out our staffing needs.

not do sth lightly

to think carefully about something before you do it, knowing that it is serious. Dictionary example: It's not a decision that I take lightly.

have sth on your mind

to think or worry about something. Dictionary example: Jim has a lot on his mind at the moment.

attach importance/value, etc. to sb/sth

to think that someone or something has importance/value, etc. Dictionary example: You attach too much importance to money.

hold out hope

to think that something is likely to succeed or have a good result. Dictionary example: Few people hold out any hope of finding more survivors of the earthquake.

frown on/upon sth

to think that something is wrong and that you should not do it. Dictionary example: You can wear jeans, but I think the restaurant frowns on shorts and sneakers.

be full of yourself

to think that you are very important in a way that annoys other people. Dictionary example: I doubt he even thought about what you might need, he's so full of himself.

invade sb's privacy

to try to learn things about someone's private life when they do not want you to. Dictionary example: They were fed up with journalists invading their privacy.

cast your mind back

to try to remember. Dictionary example: If you cast your mind back, you might recall that I never promised to go.

go out of your way to do sth

to try very hard to do something pleasant for someone. Dictionary example: He went out of his way to make us feel welcome.

cling to sth

to try very hard to keep somethin. Dictionary example: He clung to power for ten more years.

come to grips with sth

to understand and deal with a problem or situation. Dictionary example: It's a difficult subject to come to grips with.

put your finger on sth

to understand exactly why a situation is the way it is. Dictionary example: Something was wrong, but I couldn't put my finger on it.

make sense of sth

to understand something that is difficult to understand. Dictionary example: I'm trying to make sense of this document.

be in tune with sb/sth

to understand what someone wants or needs or to understand a situation and act in a way that is suitable for it. Dictionary example: The congress is not in tune with the voters.

function as sth

to use for a particular purpose or in a particular way. Dictionary example: Our spare bedroom also functions as a study.

call sb names

to use impolite or unpleasant words to describe someone. Dictionary example: He said the other children were calling him names.

cast a spell (on sb/sth)

to use magic to make something happen to someone. Dictionary example: The witch cast a spell on her.

fall back on sb/sth

to use someone or something when other things have failed, or when there are no other choices. Dictionary example: We've been saving up the past few years, to have something to fall back on.

make do (with)

to use something that is less good than you would like. Dictionary example: If we can't get a bigger room we'll have to make do with this.

cast a/your vote

to vote. Dictionary example: More than 30,000 citizens cast their votes in the last city election.

hold off (sth/doing sth)

to wait before doing something. Dictionary example: We'll hold off making a decision until we hear from Nick.

hold your breath

to wait for something to happen, often feeling anxious. Dictionary example: While the leaders negotiated, the world held its breath.

march off/up/down, etc.

to walk somewhere fast and with purpose. Dictionary example: She marched into my office demanding to know why I hadn't written my report.

long for sth; long to do sth

to want something very much. Dictionary example: She longed to see him again.

be itching to do sth

to want to do something very much. Dictionary example: You could tell that they were itching to leave.

keep your eyes open (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something. Dictionary example: Keep your eyes open for anything unusual.

keep your eyes peeled (for sb/sth)

to watch carefully for someone or something. Dictionary example: Keep your eyes peeled, he should be here any minute.

(be) green with envy

to wish very much that you had something that another person has. Dictionary example: Sam's got a job in the south of France and we're all green with envy!

apply yourself

to work hard. Dictionary example: If he doesn't apply himself, he'll never pass his exams.

burn the midnight oil

to work late into the night. Dictionary example: I had to burn the midnight oil to get the essay finished.

lose sleep over something

to worry about something. Dictionary example: I know she's angry with me, but I'm not losing any sleep over it.

fear the worst

to worry that something very bad will happen or that something very bad has happened. Dictionary example: When there was no sign of the children, the rescuers feared the worst.

doom and gloom

unhappiness and feeling no hope for the future. Dictionary example: Life's not all doom and gloom, you know.

to death

until you die. Dictionary example: Fire ants stung a woman to death.

at the latest

used after a time or date to say that something could happen before but not after that time. Dictionary example: She said to be there by 8 o'clock at the latest.

at any rate

used before saying one fact that is certain in a situation that you are generally not certain about. Dictionary example: Well, at any rate we need her to be there.

at this rate

used before saying what will happen if a situation continues in the same way. Dictionary example: At this rate we're not going to be there till midnight.

I forget

used to say you don't remember, instead of "I have forgotten". Dictionary example: I forget when we last saw him.

at the best of times

used to show that something is not good when it is the best it can be. Dictionary example: He's not exactly patient at the best of times.

at best

used to show that the most positive way of considering something is still not good. Dictionary example: If he drops the course now, at best he'll get an incomplete, and he could fail.

as the/its name implies

used to show that the name of something tells you something about it. Dictionary example: A "suggested price" is, as the name implies, the sale price suggested by the manufacturer.

Absolutely not.

used to strongly disagree with someone or to agree with something negative. Dictionary example: "Are you suggesting that we should just ignore the problem?" "No, absolutely not."

at one time or another

used to talk about an occasion in the past without saying exactly which occasion it was. Dictionary example: Most of us have made a similar mistake at one time or another.

the next thing I knew

used to talk about part of a story that happens in a sudden and surprising way. Dictionary example: A bike came speeding around the corner, and the next thing I knew I was lying on the ground.

mind your own business

used to tell someone in that you are annoyed and they should not ask about something private. Dictionary example: I wish you'd just mind your own business.

then again

used when adding a fact to something you have just said. Dictionary example: I failed my history test - but then again, I didn't do much studying for it.

on the face of it

used when you are describing how a situation seems on the surface. Dictionary example: On the face of it, this seems like a bargain, but I bet there are hidden costs.

be no mean feat

used when you want to emphasize that an act or achievement is very difficult. Dictionary example: Learning to ski at 60 is no mean feat!

you have to hand it to sb

used when you want to show that you admire someone. Dictionary example: You have to hand it to Mick, he's done a good job on that kitchen.

the left

political groups that support economic equality and believe government should provide social services. Dictionary example: The proposals were sharply criticized by the left.

in conjunction with sth/sb

working, used, or happening with something or someone else. Dictionary example: Our librarians use their knowledge in conjunction with the computer network.

something like

similar to or approximately. Dictionary examples: He paid something like $18,000 for his car. The town's Algonquian name means something like "water over a white bottom."

bits and pieces

small things or jobs which are not connected or not very important. Dictionary example: We've packed most of it up now, there are just a few bits and pieces left.

a breath of fresh air

someone or something that is new, different, and exciting. Dictionary example: Having Eve around has been a breath of fresh air.

a shoulder to cry on

someone who gives you sympathy when you are upset. Dictionary example: I always had a shoulder to cry on.

an authority on sth

someone who has a lot of knowledge about a particular subject. Dictionary example: She is an authority on seventeenth-century English literature.

the deceased

someone who has died. Dictionary example: There will be no service, at the deceased's request.

an aspiring writer/actor/artist, etc.

someone who hopes to become a successful writer/actor/artist, etc. Dictionary example: Marcus is an aspiring actor.

a bad/good, etc. judge of sth

someone who is usually wrong/usually right, etc. when they judge something. Dictionary example: a good judge of character

a stroke of luck

something good that happens to you by chance. Dictionary example: He had exactly the part that I needed so that was a stroke of luck.

deciding factor

something important that helps to make the final decision. Dictionary example: Cost was the deciding factor in choosing this builder.

a slap in the face

something someone does that insults or upsets you. Dictionary example: After all that hard work, losing my job was a real slap in the face.

a bone of contention

something that people argue about. Dictionary example: Housework is a major bone of contention in our house.

a drain on sb/sth

something that uses a lot of money or energy. Dictionary example: Taking care of his sick mother was quite a drain on him.

a safe bet

something that you are certain will happen. Dictionary example: Wheeler is a safe bet for a place on the team.

a last resort

something that you do because everything else has failed. Dictionary example: As a last resort, we could ask your mother to help.

a means to an end

something that you do because it will help you to achieve something else. Dictionary example: I didn't particularly like the job - it was just a means to an end.

let's face it

something that you say before you say something that is unpleasant but true. Dictionary example: Let's face it, none of us are getting any younger.

by all means

something that you say when you are agreeing to let someone do something. Dictionary example: I have a copy of the report on my desk. By all means have a look at it.

every so often

sometimes, but not often. Dictionary example: He went into town every so often to buy supplies.

presence of mind

the ability to deal with a difficult situation quickly and effectively. Dictionary example: She had the presence of mind to press the alarm.

margin of error

the amount by which a calculation can be wrong but still give a good result. Dictionary example: a margin of error of 5 percent

the fabric of sth

the basic way in which a society or other social group is organized. Dictionary example: The family is part of the fabric of society.

the germ of sth

the beginning of something. Dictionary example: the germ of a brilliant idea

sb's best/last/only hope

the best/last/only person or thing that can help you and make you succeed. Dictionary example: Doctors say his only hope is a transplant.

the extent to which

the degree to which something happens or is likely to happen. Dictionary example: The research should show the extent to which these changes are being implemented.

the ins and outs of sth

the details of a particular subject. Dictionary example: the ins and outs of the legal system

the desired effect/result/shape, etc.

the effect/result/shape, etc. that is wanted. Dictionary example: Her medicine seems to have had the desired effect.

the fruit(s) of sth

the good result of someone's work or actions. Dictionary example: The fruits of economic growth are starting to make a difference in the lives of many workers.

sb's breadth of experience/knowledge/interest, etc.

the great number of different things that someone has done, knows, is interested in, etc. Dictionary example: Her novels show her huge breadth of knowledge.

the wee hours

the hours between midnight and the time in the morning when people usually begin their day. Dictionary example: She worked into the wee hours of the morning.

the tail end of sth

the last part of something. Dictionary example: the tail end of the eighties

the last sb heard

the last time someone heard anything about someone or something. Dictionary example: The last I heard, they will arrive Tuesday night.

the frontiers of sth

the limits of what is known or what has been done before in an area of knowledge or activity. Dictionary example: the frontiers of science and technology

the bottom line

the most important fact of final result in an activity, discussion, or situation. Dictionary example: The bottom line is that they lost the game.

law and order

the obeying of laws in society. Dictionary example: a breakdown in law and order

the last of sth

the only part of something that remains. Dictionary example: We've just finished the last of the apples.

the country

the people who live in a country. Dictionary example: The country was shocked by the President's decision.

the defense

the person or people in a court who are accused of doing a crime, and their lawyer. Dictionary examples: He was cross-examined by the defense. a lawyer for the defense / a defense lawyer

sb/sth in question

the person or thing that is being discussed. Dictionary example: He sais that he was at a restaurant with his friends on the night in question.

the idea of sth

the principle of something. Dictionary example: We all admire the idea of dignity.

the beauty of sth

the quality that makes something especially good or attractive. Dictionary example: The beauty of the plan is that it won't cost anything.

the turn of the century

the start of a new century. Dictionary example: He was born at the turn of the century.

the height of sth

the strongest, most important or most successful part of something。 Dictionary example: I met him when he was at the height of his fame.

turn of events

the way in which a situation develops, especially a sudden or unexpected change. Dictionary example: We were all shocked by this tragic turn of events.

frame of mind

the way someone feels at a particular time. Dictionary example: She was in a much more positive frame of mind today.

the globe

the world. Dictionary example: This event is being watched by 200 million people around the globe.

in retrospect

thinking back to something that happened before. Dictionary example: In retrospect, I should probably have told her.

come to terms with sth

to accept a sad situation Dictionary example: He still hasn't come to terms with his brother's death.

grin and bear it

to accept an unpleasant or difficult situation because there is nothing you can do to improve it. Dictionary example: I hate my job, but I'm just going to have to grin and bear it for a while.

leap at sth

to accept the chance to have or do something with enthusiasm. Dictionary example: I'd leap at the opportunity to work in Japan.

count up sb/sth or count sb/sth up

to add together all the people or things in a group. Dictionary example: If you count up all the money in your various savings accounts, it is quite a large sum.

have sb do sth

to ask, arrange for, or pay someone to do something. Dictionary examples: We need to have someone fix the radiator in the bedroom. I'll have my secretary call her this afternoon.

steer clear of sb/sth

to avoid someone or something because they are unpleasant or dangerous. Dictionary examples: Steer clear of Tony this morning - he's in a bad mood. Davis steered clear of politics because of all the problems his father had had as governor.

be the tip of the iceberg

to be a small part of a very big problem. Dictionary example: We've corrected a few errors, but they're just the tip of the iceberg.

be in good taste

to be acceptable in a way that will not upset or anger people. Dictionary example: His speech was in good taste.

be at liberty to do sth

to be allowed to do something. Dictionary example: I'm not at liberty to discuss the matter at present.

draw to a close/end

to be almost finished. Dictionary example: At last the concert drew to a close.

hold your own

to be as successful as other people or things. Dictionary example: Alison could always hold her own in political debates.

defy expectations/categorization/description, etc.

to be beyond what you could expect/find a category for/describe, etc. Dictionary example: His success has defied expectations.

be led by sth

to be caused or influenced by something. Dictionary example: Her actions were led by greed.

be poles apart

to be complete opposites. Dictionary example: They are poles apart in their attitudes to religion.

be wide awake

to be completely awake. Dictionary example: "Is Oliver awake yet?" "Yes, he's wide awake and running around his bedroom."

carry weight

to be considered important and effective in influencing someone. Dictionary example: His opinions carry a lot of weight with the scientific community.

come under fire

to be criticized. Dictionary example: The government has come under fire for closing the hospital.

be intent on sth/doing sth

to be determined to do or achieve something. Dictionary example: She seems intent on winning this year's tennis tournament.

be coming along

to be developing or making progress. Dictionary example: Hassan's English is coming along well.

be on cloud nine

to be extremely happy and excited. Dictionary example: When I heard I got the job, I was on cloud nine!

be bursting with confidence/joy, etc.

to be full of an emotion or quality. Dictionary example: She was bursting with pride.

be crawling with sb/sth

to be full of insects or people in a way that is unpleasant. Dictionary example: The kitchen's crawling with ants.

fall prey to sth

to be hurt or deceived by something or someone bad. Dictionary example: He fell prey to a gang of criminals pretending to be city officials.

be confronted by/with sth

to be in a difficult situation, or to be shown something which may cause difficulties. Dictionary example: We are confronted by the possibility of war.

be on the brink of sth

to be in a situation where something bad is going to happen very soon. Dictionary example: The two countries are on the brink of war.

have the upper hand

to be in a stronger position than someone else so that you control a situation. Dictionary example: Government troops are gradually gaining the upper hand over the rebels.

be in the same boat

to be in the same unpleasant situation as other people. Dictionary example: She complains that she doesn't have enough money, but we're all in the same boat.

be aimed at doing sth

to be intended to achieve a particular thing. Dictionary example: a plan aimed at reducing traffic

be calculated to do sth

to be intended to have a particular effect. Dictionary example: His comments were calculated to embarrass the president.

play with fire

to be involved in an activity that could be dangerous. Dictionary example: We're playing with fire if we continue with genetic modification of our food.

be the envy of sb

to be liked and wanted by someone. Dictionary example: Her new office was the envy of the whole company.

be liable to do sth

to be likely to do something. Dictionary example: He's liable to make a fuss if you wake him.

be in the cards

to be likely to happen. Dictionary example: Do you think marriage is in the cards?

be miles ahead (of sb/sth)

to be much better or more advanced than someone or something else. Dictionary example: Their product designs are miles ahead of the competition.

be on edge

to be nervous or worried. Dictionary example: Sorry for shouting - I'm a little on edge today.

be called up

to be ordered to join a military organization or asked to join a sports team. Dictionary examples: He was called up soon after the war started. The team has called up several players from the minor leagues.

count toward sth

to be part of what is needed to complete something or achieve something. Dictionary example: This essay counts toward my final grade.

be on (your) guard

to be ready to deal with something difficult that might happen. Dictionary example: Companies were warned to be on their guard for suspicious packages.

descend from sb/sth

to be related to a person or group of people who lived in the past. Dictionary example: Her father is descended from Greek royalty.

let go

to be relaxed and enjoy yourself. Dictionary example: Just let go and have a little fun!

make way for sth

to be replaced by someone or something. Dictionary example: They knocked down the old houses to make way for a new hotel.

be in line with sth

to be similar to and suitable for something. Dictionary example: They were offered a pay increase in line with inflation.

bear a/no/some, etc., resemblance to sb/sth

to be similar to someone or something. Dictionary example: He bears a striking resemblance to his father.

give sb/have an edge on/over sb/sth

to be slightly better than someone or something else. Dictionary example: Because of her experience she has an edge over the other applicants.

be a disgrace to sb/sth

to be so bad or unacceptable that you make people stop respecting a particular group, activity, etc. Dictionary example: You are a disgrace to your profession.

be an inspiration to sb

to be so good that someone else admires you and is encouraged by your behavior. Dictionary example: The way she has dealt with her illness is an inspiration to us all.

be at/reach the end of your rope

to be so tired, annoyed, or worried by something that you do not feel that you can deal with it. Dictionary example: I'm at the end of my rope with these kids!

be a first

to be something that has never happened before. Dictionary example: Winning the state championship was a first for out school.

be foreign to sb

to be something you know nothing about or do not understand. Dictionary example: The concept of loyalty is completely foreign to him.

make your way

to be successful and make progress in your work. Dictionary example: He managed to make his way in the film industry.

lend itself to sth

to be suitable for a particular purpose. Dictionary example: The novel's complex, imaginative style does not lend itself to translation.

know best

to be the most suitable person to have responsibility and make important decisions. Dictionary example: When it comes to dealing with my own son, I think I know best.

fly in the face of

to be the opposite of what is usual or accepted. Dictionary example: These recommendations fly in the face of previous advice on safe limits of consumption.

miss the boat

to be too late to do or get something. Dictionary example: I'm afraid you've missed the boat. All the concert tickets have been sold.

be/get caught

to be unable to avoid something unpleasant. Dictionary example: I got caught in the rain.

be in bad/poor taste

to be unacceptable in a way that will upset or anger people. Dictionary example: He told a joke about a plane crash which I thought was in rather poor taste.

come in handy

to be useful at some time in the future. Dictionary example: Don't throw those jars away - they might come in handy.

kick yourself

to be very annoyed with yourself for doing something stupid or wrong. Dictionary example: I could have kicked myself for saying that.

have your hands full

to be very busy. Dictionary example: Shelley has her hands full with three kids under 5.

let your hair down

to be very relaxed and enjoy yourself a lot. Dictionary example: I'd love to see Clare let her hair down for once.

be glued to sth

to be watching something, especially television. Dictionary example: The kids were glued to the TV all morning.

be disposed to do sth

to be willing or likely to do something. Dictionary example: I tried to tell her but she didn't seem disposed to listen.

have/keep your finger on the pulse

to be/stay familiar with the most recent changes or improvements. Dictionary example: The situation changes daily, so you've got to keep your finger on the pulse.

get out of hand

to become difficult to control. Dictionary example: It was the end of week and the children were getting a little out of hand.

make a name for yourself

to become famous or respected by a lot of people. Dictionary example: He's been trying to make a name for himself in the music business.

be/get caught up in sth

to become involved in a situation, often without wanting to. Dictionary example: How did the paper get caught up in a legal dispute?

lose face

to become less respected by others because of something you did. Dictionary example: She had to find a way to accept defeat without losing face.

loosen up

to become more relaxed with other people. Dictionary example: After a while he loosened up.

come apart/off, etc.

to become separated or removed from something. Dictionary examples: The book came apart in my hands. The handle came off. My shoelaces have come undone.

put/go into effect

to begin being used. Dictionary example: New food safety rules went into effect on Monday.

follow sb's example/lead

to copy someone's behavior or ideas. Dictionary example: You should follow Meg's example and tidy your room.

find fault with sb/sth

to criticize someone or something, especially without good reasons. Dictionary example: She was always finding fault with our work.

chop sth down or chop down sth

to cut through something to make it fall down. Dictionary example: We chopped down the old apple tree.

take sth as it comes

to deal with something as it happens, without planning for it. Dictionary example: With an illness like this you just have to take every day as it comes.

play it by ear

to decide how to deal with a situation as it develops. Dictionary example: I'm not sure what to tell Dad - I'll just have to play it by ear.

turn your back on sb/sth

to decide to stop having contact with someone or something, or to refuse to help someone. Dictionary example: She turned her back on Hollywood and went to live in Florida.

call for sth

to demand that something happens. Dictionary example: to call for a ban on guns

have it in for sb

to dislike someone and want to cause problems for them. Dictionary example: She really has it in for me - I don't know what I did to upset her.

leave no stone unturned

to do everything that you can in order to achieve something or to find someone or something. Dictionary example: Both sides have vowed to leave no stone unturned in the search for peace.

blue

(adjective) SAD.(informal)sad. Dictionary example: I was just feeling blue.

commercial

(adjective) FOR PROFIT.making money from advertising Dictionary example: commercial television.

decaffeinated

(adjective) Decaffeinated tea or coffee is made by removing the caffeine. Dictionary example: Could I have a decaffeinated coffee, please?

long-running

(adjective) having continued for a long time. Dictionary examples: a long-running musical their long-running dispute

flexible

(adjective) ABLE TO BEND.able to bend or to be bent easily. Dictionary examples: The cover is made of flexible plastic. Dancers and gymnasts need to be very flexible.

concerned

(adjective) AFFECTED.[never before noun] involved in something or affected by it. Dictionary example: A letter will be sent out to everyone concerned.

circular

(adjective) ARGUMENT.used to describe an argument which keeps returning to the same points and is not effective. Dictionary example: a circular argument/theory

irresistible

(adjective) ATTRACTIVE.extremely attractive and impossible not to like or want. Dictionary example: an irresistible smile

delicate

(adjective) ATTRACTIVE.having a small, attractive shape. Dictionary example: delicate hands

mean

(adjective) AVERAGE.[always before noun] In math, a mean number is the average number you get by adding a group of numbers together and then dividing the result by how many numbers are in the group. Dictionary example: The mean temperature this month was warmer than usual for January.

foul

(adjective) BAD.very bad or unpleasant. Dictionary examples: foul weather She's in a foul mood.

grim

(adjective) BAD.worrying and bad. Dictionary examples: grim news The future looks grim.

crude

(adjective) RUDE.rude and offensive. Dictionary example: a crude comment/remark

bare

(adjective) BASIC.[always before noun] including only the smallest amount that you need of something. Dictionary examples: The report just gave us the barest facts about the accident. Tony's salary covers only the bare essentials for the family. Staffing will be kept to a bare minimum this year.

essential

(adjective) BASIC.the most basic and important. Dictionary example: There's one essential point I think you've forgotten.

due

(adjective) BEHAVIOR.[always before noun] formal correct and suitable. Dictionary example: He was fined for driving without due care and attention.

dry

(adjective) BORING.If a book, talk, or subject is dry, it is not interesting. Dictionary example: His writing is always so dry and dull.

bland

(adjective) BORING.not interesting or exciting. Dictionary example: bland statements

fragile

(adjective) BREAK.easily broken, damaged, or destroyed. Dictionary examples: a fragile china cup a fragile economy

dazzling

(adjective) BRIGHT.A dazzling light is so bright that you cannot see for a short time after looking at it. Dictionary example: a dazzling white light

coherent

(adjective) CAREFUL THOUGHT. A coherent argument, plan, etc. is clear, and each part of it has been carefully considered. Dictionary example: We need to put forward a coherent plan.

close

(adjective) CAREFUL.[always before noun] looking at or listening to someone or something very carefully Dictionary examples: On close inspection, you could see that the painting was a fake. Keep a close watch on the children.

fussy

(adjective) CAREFUL.too careful about unimportant details. Dictionary example: He's very fussy about keeping his car clean.

automatic

(adjective) CERTAIN.certain to happen as part of the normal process or system. Dictionary example: You get an automatic promotion after two years.

dynamic

(adjective) CHANGING.continuously changing or moving. Dictionary example: a dynamic economy.

explicit

(adjective) CLEAR.If a legal document or agreement expires, you can no longer use it. Dictionary example: Your contract expired six months ago.

bleak

(adjective) COLD.If a place is bleak, it is cold, empty and not attractive. Dictionary example: a bleak landscape

bronze

(adjective) COLOR.being the color of bronze. Dictionary example: bronze skin.

dead

(adjective) COMPLETE.[always before noun] complete. Dictionary example: There was dead silence as the votes were counted.

alive

(adjective) CONTINUING.continuing to exist. Dictionary example: Local people are fighting to keep the language alive.

late

(adjective) DEAD.[always before noun] describes someone who has died, especially recently. Dictionary example: She gave her late husband's clothes to charity.

deceased

(adjective) DEAD.dead. Dictionary example: the deceased man's belongings

due

(adjective) DESERVE.Something that is due to you is something that is owed to you or something you deserve. Dictionary example: He didn't get the praise and recognition that was due to him.

devastating

(adjective) DESTROYING.causing a lot of damage or destruction. Dictionary example: The fire has had a devastating effect on the local wildlife.

formidable

(adjective) DIFFICULT.difficult and needing a lot of effort or thought. Dictionary example: a formidable task

impossible

(adjective) DIFFICULT.very difficult to deal with. Dictionary examples: Traffic at rush hour is just impossible. You're putting me in an impossible position.

infectious

(adjective) DISEASE.An infectious disease can be passed from one person to another. Dictionary example: Hepatitis is an infectious disease.

dubious

(adjective) DOUBTING.not certain that something is good or true. Dictionary example: He's dubious about the benefits of acupuncture.

depressed

(adjective) ECONOMY.A depressed country, area, or economy does not have enough jobs or business activity. Dictionary example: an economically depressed area

bare

(adjective) EMPTY.empty. Dictionary examples: a bare room. The shelves were bare.

explosive

(adjective) EQUIPMENT.An explosive substance or piece of equipment can cause explosions. Dictionary examples: The explosive device was hidden in a suitcase. an explosive mixture of oil vapour and oxygen

minute

(adjective) EXACT.[always before noun] done in great detail. Dictionary example: He explained everything in minute detail.

animated

(adjective) EXCITEMENT.showing a lot of interest and excitement. Dictionary example: an animated conversation.

dazzling

(adjective) EXCITING.extremely good and exciting. Dictionary example: a dazzling display/performance

juicy

(adjective) EXCITING.very interesting, exciting, or shocking information Dictionary examples: juicy *gossip*. We got all the juicy details about the ring, cake, bridesmaids, and every other aspect of the wedding.

fixed

(adjective) EYES.If your eyes are fixed on something, you are looking at it continuously. Dictionary examples: a fixed stare I kept my eyes fixed on his face.

frantic

(adjective) FAST.done in a fast and excited way and not calm or organized. Dictionary example: a frantic search

asleep

(adjective) FEELING.informal If part of your body is asleep, you cannot feel it. Dictionary example: My arm fell asleep.

hopeful

(adjective) GOOD THING WILL HAPPEN..If something is hopeful, it gives you reason to believe that what you want to happen will happen. Dictionary example: There are hopeful signs that she will make a full recovery.

ethical

(adjective) GOOD.morally correct and good. Dictionary example: He dealt with this case in a completely professional and ethical manner.

compulsive

(adjective) HABIT.A compulsive habit is something that you do a lot because you want to so much that you cannot control yourself. Dictionary example: a compulsive eating disorder

gray

(adjective) HAIR.having hair that has changed color to gray. Dictionary example: He's already beginning to turn gray.

distinct

(adjective) HEAR/SEE.easy to hear, see, or smell. Dictionary example: The voices gradually became louder and more distinct.

compatible

(adjective) IDEAS.compatible ideas or situations can exist together. Dictionary example: Such policies are not compatible with democratic government.

insane

(adjective) ILL.seriously mentally ill. Dictionary example: a hospital for the criminally insane

central

(adjective) IMPORTANT.main or most important. Dictionary examples: a central character/figure the central argument of the book Her role is central to the movie.

intellectual

(adjective) INTERESTED IN IDEAS.interested in learning and in thinking about complicated ideas. Dictionary example: She's very intellectual.

compulsive

(adjective) INTERESTING. so interesting or exciting that you cannot stop reading, playing, or watching it. Dictionary example: This documentary about life in prison makes compulsive *viewing.*

infectious

(adjective) LAUGH.Infectious laughter or feelings quickly spread from one person to another. Dictionary example: infectious enthusiasm

legitimate

(adjective) LEGAL.allowed by law. Dictionary example: The army must give power back to the legitimate government.

backward

(adjective) LESS DEVELOPED.less developed or slower to develop than normal. Dictionary example: The state needs to reform its backward election laws.

immortal

(adjective) LIFE.living or lasting forever. Dictionary example: Teenagers think they are immortal.

faraway

(adjective) LONG DISTANCE.[always before noun] literary a long distance away. Dictionary example: faraway places

crisp

(adjective) MATERIAL.Crisp cloth or paper money is clean and looks new, with no folds. Dictionary example: a crisp linen shirt

immortal

(adjective) MEMORY.famous or remembered for a very long time. Dictionary example: In Yogi Barra's immortal words: "You can observe a lot by watching."

magnetic

(adjective) METAL.able to attract and stick to iron or steel objects or cause this to happen. Dictionary examples: This note pad is magnetic, so you can stick it on your refrigerator. a magnetic lock a magnetic field

bronze

(adjective) METAL.made of bronze. Dictionary example: a bronze statue

comfortable

(adjective) MONEY.having enough money for everything that you need. Dictionary example: a comfortable retirement

ahead

(adjective) MORE PROGRESS.making more progress than someone or something else. Dictionary example: Sue is ahead of everyone else in French.

clean

(adjective) NO CRIME.showing that you have not done anything illegal. Dictionary example: a clean *driving record.*

clinical

(adjective) NO EMOTION.only considering facts and not influenced by feelings or emotions. Dictionary example: a clinical approach/attitude

blank

(adjective) NO FEELING.showing no feeling or understanding. Dictionary example: a blank expression

bleak

(adjective) NO HOPE.If a situation is bleak, there is little or no hope for the future. Dictionary example: The future is looking bleak for small businesses struggling with debts.

final

(adjective) NO MORE DISCUSSION.If a decision, agreement, or answer is final, it will not be changed or discussed any more. Dictionary example: The committee's decision is final.

bland

(adjective) NO TASTE.If food is bland, it does not have much taste. Dictionary example: The soup was a bit bland.

closed

(adjective) NOT ACCEPTING IDEAS.not wanting to accept new ideas, people, customs, etc. Dictionary example: a closed mind.

dim

(adjective) NOT BRIGHT.not bright or clear. Dictionary example: He could hardly see her in the dim light.

faithful

(adjective) NOT CHANGED.not changing any of the original details, facts, style, etc. Dictionary example: Does the film adaptation stay faithful to the novel?

consistent

(adjective) NOT CHANGING.always behaving or happening in a similar, usually positive, way. Dictionary example: consistent effort/improvement

loose

(adjective) NOT EXACT. not tightly controlled or not exact. Dictionary examples: It's a fairly loose adaptation of the novel. It's only a loose translation of the poem.

feeble

(adjective) NOT GOOD.not very good or effective. Dictionary example: a feeble argument/excuse

innocent

(adjective) NOT INTENDED TO HARM.not intended to harm or upset anyone. Dictionary examples: It was an innocent mistake. It was an innocent comment/remark, I didn't mean to hurt his feelings.

blunt

(adjective) RUDE.saying exactly what you think without caring about people's feelings. Dictionary example: blunt questions/criticism

detached

(adjective) NOT INVOLVED.If someone is detached, they do not feel involved with someone or emotional about something. Dictionary example: As a nurse, I see some very distressing things, but I try to stay detached.

fussy

(adjective) NOT LIKING.only liking particular things and very difficult to please. Dictionary example: She's a very fussy eater.

indirect

(adjective) NOT OBVIOUS.done or caused in a way that is not obvious. Dictionary examples: indirect costs an indirect criticism

humble

(adjective) NOT PROUD.not proud or not believing that you are important. Dictionary example: He's very humble about his success.

insecure

(adjective) NOT SAFE.not safe or protected. Dictionary example: Many of our staff are worried because their jobs are insecure.

idle

(adjective) NOT SERIOUS.[always before noun] not serious or having no real purpose. Dictionary examples: idle chatter/speculation This is no idle threat.

blunt

(adjective) NOT SHARP.not sharp. Dictionary examples: a blunt knife Use something blunt to smash the ginger and onion into the garlic.

artificial

(adjective) NOT SINCERE.not sincere. Dictionary examples: an artificial smile Their cheerfulness seemed strained and artificial.

dubious

(adjective) NOT TRUE.thought not to be completely true, honest, or legal. Dictionary examples: dubious evidence a man with a dubious reputation

harmless

(adjective) NOT UPSETTING.not likely to shock or upset people or to cause problems. Dictionary examples: Their jokes seemed harmless enough. Peter might look a bit fierce, but actually he's fairly harmless.

hollow

(adjective) NOTHING INSIDE.having a hole or empty space inside Dictionary example: a hollow shell/tube.

critical

(adjective) OPINIONS.giving careful judgments and opinions on something. Dictionary example: a critical study of Tennyson's work

extreme

(adjective) OPINIONS.having such strong opinions or beliefs that most people cannot agree with you. Dictionary examples: extreme views the extreme right/left

contrary

(adjective) OPPOSITE.opposite or very different. Dictionary example: a contrary opinion/view.

compatible

(adjective) PEOPLE.If people are compatible, they like each other and are happy to spend time together. Dictionary examples: After they got married, they soon found out that they weren't compatible. My new job's going well, and my colleagues seem to be compatible.

diplomatic

(adjective) PEOPLE.good at dealing with people without upsetting them. Dictionary example: That's a very diplomatic answer.

alcoholic

(adjective) PERSON.C2 ! (always before noun) regularly drinking too much alcohol and unable to stop the habit

automatic

(adjective) PERSON.done as a natural reaction, without thinking. Dictionary example: My automatic response was to pull my hand away.

fragile

(adjective) PERSON.physically or emotionally weak. Dictionary example: a fragile little girl

alive

(adjective) PLACE.full of activity and excitement. Dictionary examples: The park was alive with the sound of laughter. The city comes alive at night.

graceful

(adjective) POLITE.behaving in a polite and pleasant way. Dictionary example: She accepted his criticism in a very graceful manner.

humble

(adjective) POOR.poor or of a low social rank. Dictionary example: She rose from humble beginnings to become Prime Minister.

formidable

(adjective) POWERFUL.strong, powerful, and a bit frightening. Dictionary example: a formidable woman

complimentary

(adjective) PRAISING.praising or expressing admiration for someone. Dictionary example: a complimentary report

intimate

(adjective) PRIVATE.private and personal. Dictionary examples: intimate details of her family life intimate conversations

abrupt

(adjective) QUICK.dealing with people in a quick, direct way that is unfriendly or rude. Dictionary example: She can be rather abrupt.

dead

(adjective) QUIET.informal If a place is dead, it is too quiet and nothing interesting is happening there. Dictionary example: The streets of the financial district are dead after 6 p.m.

concrete

(adjective) REAL.existing in a real form that can be seen or felt. Dictionary examples: concrete achievements/actions concrete objects

legitimate

(adjective) REASONABLE.reasonable and acceptable. Dictionary example: He claimed that the restaurant bill was a legitimate business expense.

later

(adjective) RECENT.more modern or recent. Dictionary examples: Later versions of the software are much better. I prefer her earlier paintings to her later work.

faithful

(adjective) RELATIONSHIP.If your husband, wife or partner is faithful, they do not have a romantic relationship with anyone else. Dictionary examples: a faithful husband They remained faithful to each other throughout their long marriage.

intimate

(adjective) RELATIONSHIP.having a special relationship with someone who you like or love very much. Dictionary example: an intimate friend

distant

(adjective) RELATIVE. A distant relative is not very closely related to you. Dictionary example: a distant cousin

ethical

(adjective) RIGHT/WRONG.relating to what is right or wrong. Dictionary example: The book raises some serious ethical questions.

desperate

(adjective) SERIOUS. very serious or bad. Dictionary examples: The earthquake survivors are in desperate need of help. There's a desperate shortage of medical supplies in the area. People in the flooded area are in a desperate situation.

intense

(adjective) SERIOUS.Intense people are very serious, and usually have strong emotions or opinions. Dictionary example: He's always been very intense.

grim

(adjective) SERIOUS.sad and serious. Dictionary example: a grim expression

deep

(adjective) SERIOUS.serious and difficult to understand. Dictionary example: a deep and meaningful conversation

explicit

(adjective) SHOWING SEX.showing or talking about sex or violence in a very detailed way. Dictionary example: an explicit film

explosive

(adjective) SITUATION.An explosive situation or subject causes strong feelings, and may make people angry or violent. Dictionary example: a highly explosive political issue

fresh

(adjective) SKIN.Fresh skin looks healthy. Dictionary example: a fresh complexion.

intimate

(adjective) SMALL.If a place or event is intimate, it is small in a way that feels comfortable or private. Dictionary example: an intimate hotel

minute

(adjective) SMALL.extremely small. Dictionary example: a minute amount/quantity

able

(adjective) SMART.smart or good at doing something. Dictionary example: She's a very able student.

awesome

(adjective) SPECIAL.great or special and causing deep feelings of admiration, respect, or sometimes fear. Dictionary examples: an awesome achievement The scenery was truly awesome.

firm

(adjective) STRICT.strict and making certain that people do what you want. Dictionary example: You've got to be firm with children.

dominant

(adjective) STRONG.power, influence, and control. Dictionary example: the company's dominance in the software industry

firm

(adjective) STRONG.strong and tight. Dictionary example: a firm handshake/grip

irresistible

(adjective) STRONG.too powerful to control or ignore. Dictionary examples: irresistible pressure an irresistible desire to run away

healthy

(adjective) SUCCESSFUL.successful and strong. Dictionary examples: a healthy economy The real-estate market is healthier today than it was ten years ago.

abrupt

(adjective) SUDDEN.sudden and not expected. Dictionary example: Our conversation came to an abrupt end/halt.

fine

(adjective) THIN.thin or made of very small pieces. Dictionary examples: fine, brown hair fine sand

inseparable

(adjective) THINGS.formal. Two things that are inseparable are so closely connected that you cannot consider them separately. Dictionary example: Rossetti's work was inseparable from his life.

later

(adjective) TOWARD THE END.happening toward the end of a period of time or the end of someone's life. Dictionary example: He needed round-the-clock care in the later stages of his illness.

classical

(adjective) TRADITIONAL.traditional in style. Dictionary example: classical and modern dance

coherent

(adjective) UNDERSTAND.If someone is coherent, you can understand what they say. Dictionary example: She was so upset, she was barely coherent.

accessible

(adjective) UNDERSTAND.easy to understand. Dictionary example: They are attempting to make opera accessible to a wider audience.

cool

(adjective) UNFRIENDLY.unfriendly. Dictionary example: She was very cool towards us.

grim

(adjective) UNPLEASANT.A grim place is ugly and unpleasant. Dictionary example: grim industrial regions

exceptional

(adjective) UNUSUAL.very unusual and not likely to happen very often. Dictionary example: Visitors are only allowed in exceptional circumstances.

handy

(adjective) USEFUL.useful or easy to use. Dictionary example: a handy container/tool

keen

(adjective) WANTING TO DO.wanting to do something. Dictionary example: The company is keen to attract new customers.

feeble

(adjective) WEAK.extremely weak. Dictionary example: She became too feeble to get out of bed.

crisp

(adjective) WEATHER.Crisp weather is pleasantly cold and dry. Dictionary example: a crisp autumn day

awkward

(adjective) WITHOUT BEAUTY.without beauty, ease, and skill when moving. Dictionary example: He's too awkward - he'll never be a good dancer.

flat

(adjective) WITHOUT BUBBLES. If a drink is flat, it does not contain enough bubbles of gas. Dictionary example: If you don't put the top back on the soda bottle, it will go f~.

hollow

(adjective) WITHOUT MEANING.without meaning or real feeling. Dictionary examples: a hollow victory a hollow laugh

crude

(adjective) WITHOUT SKILL.made or done in a simple way and without much skill. Dictionary example: a crude device/weapon

mechanical

(adjective) WITHOUT THINKING.If you do something in a mechanical way, you do it without thinking about it. Dictionary examples: a mechanical performance The men worked in a slow, mechanical way.

frantic

(adjective) WORRIED.very worried or frightened. Dictionary examples: frantic calls for help I got home to find Joe frantic with worry.

allied

(adjective) joined by a formal agreement. Dictionary example: the allied powers

appalling

(adjective)awful, or shocking and very unpleasant or causing someone to feel upset. Dictionary examples: The animals were being kept in appalling conditions. This industry has an appalling environmental record. Both candidates showed an appalling lack of familiarity with the issues.

empirical

(adjective)based on experience or scientific experiments and not only on ideas. Dictionary example: empirical evidence

irritable

(adjective)becoming annoyed very easily. Dictionary example: Jack's been irritable all day.

eccentric

(adjective)behaving in a strange and unusual way. Dictionary examples: an eccentric professor eccentric behavior

immature

(adjective)behaving in a way that is childish and not in the emotionally well-developed way people expect from someone your age. Dictionary example: Some of the kids are so immature - they're always doing silly things and don't pay attention.

assertive

(adjective)behaving or speaking in a strong, confident way. Dictionary example: You need to be much more assertive.

disrespectful

(adjective)being rude and not showing any respect. Dictionary example: Don't be disrespectful to your mother.

materialist

(adjective)believing that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life. Dictionary example: We live in a materialist society.

materialistic

(adjective)believing that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life. Dictionary example: a materialistic society

cynical

(adjective)believing that people are only interested in themselves and are not sincere. Dictionary example: Many people have become cynical about politicians.

dignified

(adjective)calm, serious, and behaving in a way that makes people respect you. Dictionary example: a quiet, dignified woman

discreet

(adjective)careful not to cause embarrassment or attract too much attention. Dictionary example: Can I trust you to be discreet?

disruptive

(adjective)causing problems that interrupt something and stop it continuing as it should. Dictionary example: disruptive behavior

definitive

(adjective)certain, clear, and not likely to change. Dictionary example: a definitive answer

cunning

(adjective)clever at getting what you want, especially by tricking people. Dictionary example: a cunning plan

imminent

(adjective)coming or happening very soon. Dictionary examples: A rain storm was imminent. imminent danger

indispensable

(adjective)completely necessary. Dictionary examples: an indispensable tool/guide She quickly became indispensable to him.

elaborate

(adjective)complicated, detailed, or made carefully from many parts. Dictionary examples: an elaborate ceremony an elaborate design/display

humanitarian

(adjective)connected with improving people's lives and reducing suffering. Dictionary example: The UN is sending humanitarian aid to the refugees.

mainstream

(adjective)considered normal, and having or using ideas, beliefs, etc. which are accepted by most people. Dictionary example: This is the director's first mainstream Hollywood film.

long-lasting

(adjective)continuing for a long period of time. Dictionary example: Theirs was a long-lasting friendship.

extravagant

(adjective)costing too much, or spending a lot more money than you need to. Dictionary example: the extravagant lifestyle of a movie star

merciless

(adjective)cruel, or showing no kindness. Dictionary examples: a merciless attack She was merciless in her criticism of his work.

hazardous

(adjective)dangerous. Dictionary example: hazardous chemicals

elusive

(adjective)difficult to describe, find, achieve, or remember. Dictionary example: The answers to these questions remain as elusive as ever.

fraudulent

(adjective)dishonest and illegal. Dictionary example: fraudulent insurance claims

inherent

(adjective)existing as a natural and basic part of something. Dictionary example: The desire for freedom is inherent in all people.

fictional

(adjective)existing only in fiction. Dictionary example: a fictional character

forceful

(adjective)expressing opinions strongly and demanding attention or action . Dictionary example: a forceful manner/personality

inhuman

(adjective)extremely cruel. Dictionary example: the inhuman treatment of prisoners

elated

(adjective)extremely happy and excited. Dictionary example: We were elated by/at the news.

infinite

(adjective)extremely large or great. Dictionary examples: an infinite variety/number of options She took infinite care with the painting.

horrifying

(adjective)extremely shocking. Dictionary example: She sustained horrifying injuries in the attack.

miniature

(adjective)extremely small. Dictionary example: a miniature camera.

eminent

(adjective)famous, respected, or important. Dictionary example: an eminent historian

disillusioned

(adjective)feeling disappointed because something is not as good as you thought it was. Dictionary example: She says she's disillusioned with the music business.

lifelong

(adjective)for all of your life. Dictionary example: a lifelong friend/ambition/interest

chip in (sth)

(informal) If several people chip in, they each give money to pay for something together. Dictionary example: We all chipped in to buy our teacher a present.

in a flash

(informal) immediately, or very quickly Dictionary example: I'll be back in a flash.

call it a day

(informal) to stop doing something, especially working. Dictionary example: It's almost midnight - let's call it a day.

odds and ends

(informal) various items of different types that are not valuable or important. Dictionary examples: We moved most of the furniture to the new house, but there are still a few odds and ends to bring over. I keep odds and ends in that box.

sth is beyond me

(informal)something is impossible for you to understand Dictionary examples: How they can live in such chaos is beyond me. It's beyond me why anyone would want to buy that house.

get your act together

(informal)to become better organized so that you can make progress. Dictionary example: I wish she'd get her act together.

make a splash

(informal)to get a lot of public attention. Dictionary example: The movie made quite a splash in the US.

tie the knot

(informal)to get married Dictionary example: We're planning to tie the knot in April.

know your stuff

(informal)to know a lot about a subject, or to be very good at doing something. Dictionary example: She's an excellent teacher - she really knows her stuff.

make a run for it

(informal)to suddenly run fast in order to escape from somewhere. Dictionary example: When he saw the open door, he made a run for it.

jug

(noun) a container with a handle used for pouring out liquids. Dictionary examples: a plastic jug She put a gallon jug of water in the refrigerator.

crackdown

(noun) when bad or illegal behavior is dealt with in a very severe way, in order to stop it happening. Dictionary example: The police will begin a crackdown on speeding over the holiday weekend.

judgment

(noun) ABILITY.[U] the ability to make good decisions or to be right in your opinions. Dictionary example: to use/show poor/good/bad judgment

grasp

(noun) ACHIEVE.the ability to obtain or achieve something. Dictionary example: Victory is within our grasp.

life

(noun) ACTIVE PERIOD.[C usually no plural] the amount of time that a machine, system, etc., exists or can be used. Dictionary examples: The newer batteries have a much longer life. Careful use will prolong the life of your machine. The legislation won't be passed during the life of the present parliament.

import

(noun) ACTIVITY.[U] the activity of importing something into a country. Dictionary example: The FDA oversees the import of seafood, fruits, and vegetables.

interest

(noun) ADVANTAGE.[C or U] something that gives someone or something an advantage. Dictionary example: A union looks after the interests of its members.

bomber

(noun) AIRCRAFT.an aircraft that drops bombs. Dictionary example: He flew bombers in the war.

depth

(noun) AMOUNT. [U] how much someone knows or feels about something. Dictionary example: She was amazed at the depth of his knowledge.

content

(noun) AMOUNT. the amount of a particular substance that something contains. Dictionary example: Most soft drinks have a high sugar content.

measure

(noun) AMOUNT.[C or U] amount or degree. Dictionary examples: Heavy drapes give the room some measure of warmth on cold nights. There was a large measure of luck in his quick promotion to company vice president.

dash

(noun) AMOUNT.[C] a small amount of something, often food. Dictionary example: Serve the tomatoes with a dash of salt and some olive oil.

flood

(noun) AMOUNT.a large number or amount of things or people that arrive at the same time. Dictionary example: a flood of letters/calls

ceiling

(noun) AMOUNT.a limit on the amount that can be paid for something. Dictionary example: They have set a ceiling on pay raises.

guarantee

(noun) PROMISE.a promise that something will be done or will happen. Dictionary example: There's no guarantee that it actually works.

line

(noun) APPROACH.a way of dealing with or thinking about something or someone. Dictionary examples: I couldn't follow his line of reasoning. Some members of Congress disagree with their party's line on tax cuts. The police are confident that this new line of investigation will lead them to the murderer.

case

(noun) ARGUMENT.[C] arguments, facts, or reasons that prove a particular opinion. Dictionary examples: There is a strong case for/against passing the new legislation. He put the case for more funding very convincingly. She was given the opportunity to state her case.

battle

(noun) ARGUMENT.[C] when two people or groups compete against each other or have an argument about something. Dictionary example: They're in a battle with their publisher over electronic rights.

composition

(noun) ARRANGEMENT.[U] the way that people or things are arranged in a painting or photograph. Dictionary example: The composition of the painting was perfect.

inquiry

(noun) ASKING QUESTIONS.[U] formal the process of asking questions in order to get information. Dictionary example: Inquiry into the matter is pointless - no one will tell you anything.

focus

(noun) ATTENTION.to be the opposite of what is usual or accepted. Dictionary example: These recommendations fly in the face of previous advice on safe limits of consumption.

disk

(noun) BACK.a piece of cartilage between the bones in your back. Dictionary example: a slipped disk

blow

(noun) BAD EVENT.an unexpected event that has a damaging effect on someone or something. Dictionary example: Losing his job was a severe blow to his confidence.

devil

(noun) BADLY-BEHAVED PERSON.informal someone who behaves badly. Dictionary example: He's an absolute devil!

essence

(noun) BASIC QUALITY.the basic or most important idea or quality of something. Dictionary example: The essence of his argument is that we should not eat meat.

arrival

(noun) BECOME AVAILABLE.[U] when something new is discovered or created or becomes available. Dictionary example: The arrival of the railroad changed the western US.

humanity

(noun) BEING HUMAN.the condition of being human. Dictionary example: War robs these people of their humanity.

ethic

(noun) BELIEF.[C] a belief or idea that influences the way you think or behave. Dictionary example: Our school promotes an ethic of service to the community.

conviction

(noun) BELIEF.a strong opinion or belief. Dictionary examples: religious/moral convictions a deep/strong conviction

frontier

(noun) BETWEEN COUNTRIES.a line or border between two countries. Dictionary example: They placed guards on the frontier.

labor

(noun) BIRTH.[C or U] the last stage of pregnancy when the woman gives birth to a baby. Dictionary example: She went into labor at twelve o'clock last night.

circulation

(noun) BLOOD.the movement of blood around your body. Dictionary example: Exercise improves your circulation.

donor

(noun) BLOOD/ORGANS.someone who gives some of their blood or part of their body to be used for medical purposes. Dictionary example: She is a regular blood donor.

anchor

(noun) BOAT.a heavy, metal object that is dropped into water to stop a boat from moving. Dictionary example: We dropped anchor in a quiet bay and swam.

joint

(noun) BODY PART.a place in your body where two bones meet Dictionary example: the knee joint.图

flesh

(noun) BODY.the soft part of a person's or animal's body between the skin and bones. Dictionary example: Large thorns dug into my flesh.

journal

(noun) BOOK.a book in which you regularly write about what has happened to you. Dictionary example: I kept a journal during that time.

line

(noun) BORDER.the border of an area within a country. Dictionary example: the city/state/county line

bed

(noun) BOTTOM.[C] the ground on the bottom of the sea, a river, etc. Dictionary example: the sea bed

chest

(noun) BOX.a strong, usually wooden, container with a lid, used for keeping things in. Dictionary example: a treasure chest

assembly

(noun) BUILD.[U] when you build something by attaching parts together. Dictionary example: The frame needs to be strong enough to support the engine assembly.

market

(noun) BUSINESS.the business of buying and selling a particular product or service. Dictionary example: the insurance/housing market

bid

(noun) BUY.an offer to pay a particular amount of money for something. Dictionary example: I made a bid of $150 for the painting.

coolness

(noun) CALM.the quality of being calm. Dictionary example: He was admired for his coolness under pressure.

invitation

(noun) CAUSE RESULT.[no plural] something that is likely to cause a particular result, especially a bad one. Dictionary example: Leaving your house unlocked is an open invitation to burglars.

arm

(noun) CHAIR.the part of a chair where your arm rests. Dictionary example: The chair didn't have any arms.

leap

(noun) CHANGE.a sudden improvement or increase. Dictionary examples: There was a big leap in profits last year. This represents a great leap forward in technology.

coldness

(noun) CHARACTER.when someone is unfriendly or does not show their feelings. Dictionary example: I was shocked by his father's coldness.

embrace

(noun)when you put your arms around someone. Dictionary example: a warm embrace

assembly

(noun) GROUP.[C] a group of people, such as a government, who meet to make decisions, laws, etc. Dictionary examples: The state assembly will vote on a tax bill next week. the United Nations General Assembly

body

(noun) GROUP.an official group of people who work together. Dictionary example: the sport's regulatory body

bet

(noun) GUESS.when you guess about something or risk money on the result of a game, competition, etc. Dictionary examples: She was right - she won our bet. He placed a bet on the race.

fringe

(noun) HAIR.UK ( US bangs [plural] ) hair that is cut short and straight at the top of someone's face. Dictionary example: Her fringe was nearly in her eyes.

fulfillment

(noun) HAPPINESS.a feeling of happiness because you are receiving or achieving what you want in life. Dictionary examples: Workaholics find fulfillment in their work. I hope that you'll find happiness and fulfillment in your life together.

constitution

(noun) HEALTH. the state of someone's health. Dictionary example: a strong/weak constitution

blow

(noun) HIT.a hard hit with a hand or a weapon. Dictionary example: A sharp blow on the chest sent him spinning to the floor.

impact

(noun) HITTING. the force or action of one object hitting another. Dictionary examples: The impact of the crash reduced the car to a third of its original length. The bullet explodes on impact.

grasp

(noun) HOLD.when you hold onto someone or something. Dictionary example: I tried to pull him out but he slipped from my grasp.

irony

(noun) HUMOR.a type of humor in which people say the opposite of what they really mean. Dictionary example: There is a lot of irony in his writing.

hail

(noun) ICE.hard balls of ice that fall from the sky like rain. Dictionary example: Hail the size of golf balls dented my car in the storm.

image

(noun) IDEA.[C] a picture in your mind or an idea of how someone or something is. Dictionary examples: I have an image in my mind of the way I want the garden to look. For me this song always conjures up images of Caribbean beaches. The poem is full of images of new life.

foundation

(noun) IDEA.[C] the idea or principle that something is based on. Dictionary example: Jefferson's document formed the foundation of a new nation.

case

(noun) ILLNESS.[C] an illness, or somebody with an illness. Dictionary example: 4,000 new cases of the disease are diagnosed every year.

core

(noun) IMPORTANT PART. [no plural] the most important part of a system or principle. Dictionary examples: core values . Better health care was at the core of the senator's campaign.

agenda

(noun) IMPORTANT SUBJECTS.important subjects that have to be dealt with. Dictionary examples: Finding a job is at the top of my agenda. Quality of life issues are high on the city council's agenda.

force

(noun) INFLUENCE.[C or U] power and influence, or a person or thing that has it. Dictionary example: the forces of good/evil

cricket

(noun) INSECT. [C] an insect that jumps and makes a noise by rubbing its wings together. Dictionary example: We could hear the crickets in the grass.

bow

(noun) INSTRUMENT.a long, thin piece of wood with hairs stretched between the ends, used to play some musical instruments. Dictionary example: a violin bow.

indication

(noun) INTENTION.a sign showing what someone means or what they intend to do. Dictionary example: Helen's face gave no indication of what she was thinking.

color

(noun) INTEREST.[U] interesting or exciting qualities or parts. Dictionary example: We'd like to include your story in the magazine this week for a bit of local color.

implication

(noun) INVOLVEMENT.[U] the involvement of someone with something bad. Dictionary example: His career was ruined by his implication in the financial scandal.

appointment

(noun) JOB.[C or U] when you officially choose someone for an important job, or the job itself. Dictionary examples: the appointment of three new teachers a temporary appointment

anchor

(noun) JOB.the person who reports the news and manages reports by others on a television or radio program. Dictionary example: She was interviewed by the anchor of the CBS Evening News.

mercy

(noun) KINDNESS.[U] kindness that makes you forgive someone, usually someone that you have authority over. Dictionary examples: The judge showed no mercy. The prisoners begged/pleaded for mercy.

charity

(noun) KINDNESS.[U] kindness towards other people Dictionary example: an act of charity.

consideration

(noun) KINDNESS.[U] when you are kind to people or think about their feelings. Dictionary example: They always treated me with consideration.

humanity

(noun) KINDNESS.kindness and sympathy toward others. Dictionary example: Mother Teresa was famous for her compassion and humanity.

discipline

(noun) KNOWLEDGE.[C] formal a particular subject of study. Dictionary example: the scientific disciplines

developer

(noun) LAND.someone who buys land or buildings to improve them and sell them for more money. Dictionary example: All the land was bought up by developers.

grounds

(noun) LAND.the land around and belonging to a particular building or organization. Dictionary example: We strolled around the hospital grounds.

abuse

(noun) LANGUAGE.rude and offensive words said to another person. Dictionary example: He found it difficult to tolerate the verbal abuse.

evidence

(noun) LAW.information that is given or objects that are shown in a court of law to help to prove if someone has committed a crime. Dictionary example: He was arrested despite the lack of evidence against him.

blanket

(noun) LAYER

film

(noun) LAYER.[no plural] a thin layer of something on a surface. Dictionary example: A film of oil glistened on the surface of the water.

chancellor

(noun) LEADER.a person with a high rank in a government or university. Dictionary examples: He became chancellor in 2010. University faculty met with the chancellor to discuss their concerns.

launch

(noun) LEAVE LAND.the launching of a spacecraft, ship, or weapon. Dictionary example: The launch of the space shuttle was delayed for 24 hours because of bad weather.

calf

(noun) LEG. the back of your leg below your knee. Dictionary example: I pulled a muscle in my calf.

glare

(noun) LIGHT.[U] strong, bright light that hurts your eyes. Dictionary example: I get a lot of glare from my computer screen.

glow

(noun) LIGHT.a soft, warm light. Dictionary example: the warm glow of the moon

crack

(noun) LINE.[C] a line on the surface of something that is damaged. Dictionary example: Several cups had cracks in them.

isolation

(noun) LONELY.[U] a feeling of being lonely. Dictionary example: I had this awful sense of isolation.

glare

(noun) LOOK.[C] a long, angry look. Dictionary example: She gave me an angry glare.

crush

(noun) LOVE.[C] informal a strong temporary feeling of love for someone. Dictionary example: Tim has a crush on Jennifer.

charm

(noun) LUCKY. [C] an object that you keep or wear because you believe that it is lucky. Dictionary example: a lucky charm

base

(noun) MAIN PART.the most important part of something, from which other things can develop. Dictionary example: a solid economic base

base

(noun) MAIN PLACE.the main place where a person lives or works or where a business operates. Dictionary examples: I spend a lot of time in Dallas, but Chicago is still my base. Nice is an excellent base for exploring the French Riviera.

administration

(noun) MANAGEMENT.the people in an organization who manage its business and operations. Dictionary example: The decision to cancel the trip was made by the school administration.

complication

(noun) MEDICAL PROBLEM.a new medical problem that develops when you are already ill. Dictionary example: Eye problems can be a complication of diabetes.

consultation

(noun) MEETING.[C] a meeting to discuss something or to get advice. Dictionary example: a medical consultation

flashback

(noun) MEMORY.when you suddenly remember something that happened in the past, often something bad. Dictionary example: She suffered from flashbacks for years after the accident.

discomfort

(noun) MENTAL FEELING.[U] when you feel slightly embarrassed or anxious. Dictionary example: I could see that the talk of divorce was causing her some discomfort.

complex

(noun) MENTAL.a mental problem which makes someone anxious or frightened about something. Dictionary example: an inferiority complex

dump

(noun) MESSY PLACE.(informal)a place that is dirty and messy. Dictionary example: His room is a dump.

bronze

(noun) METAL.a shiny orange-brown metal. Dictionary example: a statue made of bronze

exercise

(noun) MILITARY.[C] a set of actions that a group of soldiers do to practice their skills. Dictionary example: The cadets are out on military exercises.

line

(noun) MILITARY.a row of positions used to defend against enemy attack, especially the ones closest to enemy positions. Dictionary example: They were taken prisoner while on a reconnaissance mission behind enemy lines.

memory

(noun) MIND.[C or U] the part of your mind that stores what you remember. Dictionary example: He recited the poem from memory.

means

(noun) MONEY.money. Dictionary example: We don't have the means to buy the house.

injection

(noun) MONEY.when a large amount of money is provided for a plan, service, organization, etc. Dictionary example: The university has welcomed the $5 million cash injection.

donor

(noun) MONEY/GOODS.someone who gives money or goods to a person or organization that needs help. Dictionary example: Ten thousand dollars was given by an anonymous donor.

legacy

(noun) MONEY/PROPERTY.money or property that you receive from someone after they die. Dictionary example: An elderly cousin had left her a small legacy.

humor

(noun) MOOD.(formal) the way you are feeling, or your mood. Dictionary example: good/bad humor

good

(noun) MORALLY RIGHT.something that people think is morally right or will help others. Dictionary examples: Even a small donation can do a lot of good. Children don't always understand the difference between good and bad.

harmony

(noun) MUSIC.[C or U] a pleasant sound in music, made by playing or singing a group of different notes together. Dictionary examples: The choir sang in perfect harmony. Their voices produced beautiful harmonies.

horn

(noun) MUSIC.a curved musical instrument that you blow into to make a sound. Dictionary example: He blew his horn.

brass

(noun) MUSIC.the group of musical instruments made from brass. Dictionary example: a brass band

innocence

(noun) NOT EXPERIENCED.when someone does not have much experience of life and does not know about the bad things that happen. Dictionary examples: the innocence of childhood She has a childlike innocence which I find very appealing.

blindness

(noun) NOT NOTICING.the state of not noticing something, or not wanting to notice or understand it. Dictionary example: My blindness to what was happening led me to make a bad decision.

disorder

(noun) NOT ORGANIZED.[U] when things are untidy or confused and not organized. Dictionary example: His finances are in complete disorder.

intruder

(noun) NOT WANTED.someone who goes to a place or becomes involved in a situation where others do not want them. Dictionary example: I felt like an intruder at their dinner table.

idol

(noun) OBJECT.a statue or picture that represents a god, which people pray to as part of their religion. Dictionary example: H has a small stone idol of a Hindu deity.

age

(noun) OLD.the state of being old or becoming old. Dictionary examples: He is starting to show his age. The value of the painting has increased with age.

break

(noun) OPPORTUNITY.a lucky opportunity. Dictionary examples: His big break came when he was offered a part in a TV series. Getting that first job was a lucky break.

giant

(noun) ORGANIZATION.a very large and important company or organization. Dictionary example: a media/software giant

army

(noun) ORGANIZED GROUP.a group of people organized to do the same job. Dictionary example: an army of cleaners/helpers

guts

(noun) ORGANS.the organs inside a person's or animal's body. Dictionary example: Its guts were spilled all over the road.

discomfort

(noun) PAIN.[U] slight pain. Dictionary example: You may feel some discomfort for a few days.

allocation

(noun) PART.[C] a part of the money, time, space, etc., which can be used for a particular purpose Dictionary example: The budget includes an allocation for flood control along the river.

composition

(noun) PARTS.[U] the parts, substances, etc. that something consists of. Dictionary example: the composition of the atmosphere

diplomacy

(noun) PEOPLE.skill in dealing with people well and not upsetting them. Dictionary example: She showed great tact and diplomacy in the meeting.

character

(noun) PERSON.[C] informal a particular kind of person. Dictionary example: an unpleasant character

hostage

(noun) PERSON.[C] someone who is kept as a prisoner and may be hurt or killed in order to force other people to do something. Dictionary example: Three hostages died in the attack.

fake

(noun) PERSON.someone who pretends to have particular skills or qualities so that they can deceive people or get their admiration. Dictionary example: He said he was a doctor, but we soon realized he was a fake.

lump

(noun) PIECE.a piece of a solid substance with no particular shape. Dictionary examples: a lump of coal You don't want lumps in the sauce.

grain

(noun) PIECE.a very small piece of something. Dictionary example: a grain of sand/sugar

heap

(noun) PILE.a messy pile of things Dictionary example: a garbage heap.

enterprise

(noun) PLAN.[C] a difficult and important plan. Dictionary example: Putting on the concert will be a joint enterprise between the two schools.

intent

(noun) PLAN.[U or no plural] when you want and plan to do something. Dictionary example: It had not been his intent to hurt anyone.

grace

(noun) POLITENESS.the quality of being pleasantly polite. Dictionary example: He had the grace to apologize for his mistake the next day.

center

(noun) POLITICAL. [no plural] a political position with opinions that are not extreme Dictionary example: His political views are left of center.

contest

(noun) POLITICS. an election with two or more people running for the same position. Dictionary examples: This is the city's most important mayoral contest in decades. In the last election, he survived a close contest against a political newcomer.

avenue

(noun) POSSIBILITY. a possible way of doing or achieving something. Dictionary example: We have exhausted all other avenues of treatment.

compliment

(noun) PRAISE.[C] something that you say or do to show praise or admiration for someone. Dictionary example: Thank you for the compliment, but many people helped me along the way.

custody

(noun) PRISON.when someone is kept in prison, usually while they are waiting for a trial in court. Dictionary examples: He is being held in custody in Los Angeles charged with assault. He was taken into custody by Mexican authorities.

action

(noun) PROCESS.(no plural) a movement or natural process. Dictionary example: The rocks are smoothed by the action of water.

measurement

(noun) PROCESS.[ U] the process of measuring something, or a way of measuring something. Dictionary example: The test is based on the measurement of blood sugar.

inquiry

(noun) PROCESS.[C] an official process to discover the facts about something bad that has happened. Dictionary examples: a judicial inquiry Citizens have demanded a full inquiry into the government's handling of the epidemic.

margin

(noun) PROFIT.the amount of profit that is made by a business after costs have been subtracted. Dictionary examples: Higher fuel prices have reduced our margins. Many farmers claim that the profit margin for growing trees remains slim.

carrot

(noun) REWARD.[C] informal something that is offered to someone in order to encourage them to do something. Dictionary example: The carrot is the extra payment they will get if they finish the work on time.

loft

(noun) ROOM.a small room under a high ceiling that has only three walls and overlooks a larger room below. Dictionary example: We use the loft as a library and guest room.

line

(noun) ROW.a row of people or things. Dictionary example: a line of trees

bureaucracy

(noun) RULES.[U] complicated rules and processes used by an organization, especially when they do not seem necessary. Dictionary example: government bureaucracy

back

(noun) SEAT.the part of a seat that you lean against when you are sitting. Dictionary example: the back of a chair

leak

(noun) SECRET. secret information that has intentionally been told to someone. Dictionary examples: The Justice Department was investigating security leaks. There have been several leaks to the press.

grain

(noun) SEED.a seed or seeds from types of grass that are eaten as food. Dictionary example: grains of rice

formation

(noun) SHAPE.when something has a particular shape or things are arranged in a particular way. Dictionary examples: rock/cloud formations The planes flew overhead in formation.

coherence

(noun) SHARED BELIEFS/PURPOSE.the feeling that you share the beliefs or purpose of others in a group. Dictionary example: There is no sense of coherence within the group.

cabin

(noun) SHIP.a small room to sleep in on a ship. Dictionary example: We had a cabin on the top deck.

fire

(noun) SHOOTING.[U] the shooting of guns and other weapons. Dictionary example: The soldiers opened fire.

climate

(noun) SITUATION.[C] the situation, feelings, and opinions that exist at a particular time. Dictionary examples: the political/social climate Terrorism creates a climate of fear.

irony

(noun) SITUATION.a situation that is strange because it is the opposite of what you expected. Dictionary example: The irony is now that he's retired, he's busier than ever.

legacy

(noun) SITUATION.a situation that was caused by something from an earlier time. Dictionary example: The war has left a legacy of hatred.

master

(noun) SKILLED PERSON.a person who does something with a lot of skill. Dictionary examples: This painting is clearly the work of a master. a master chef/craftsman

color

(noun) SKIN.[U] the color of a person's skin, when thought of as their race. Dictionary example: I don't care what color her friend is.

glow

(noun) SKIN.when your face feels or appears warm and healthy. Dictionary example: Sam's face had lost its rosy glow.

fulfillment

(noun) SOMETHING DONE.the act of doing something necessary or something that you have promised or wanted to do. Dictionary example: Being here is the fulfillment of a lifelong ambition.

buzz

(noun) SOUND.[C] a continuous sound like a bee makes. Dictionary example: I could hear the buzz of a fly near my ear.

echo

(noun) SOUND.a sound that you hear more than once after it hits a surface in a big space. Dictionary example: I could hear the echo of the bell.

margin

(noun) SPACE.empty space around the edges of a page of print or writing. Dictionary example: If I have any comments to make, I'll write them in the margin.

loft

(noun) SPACE.the space under the roof of a house, often used for storing things. Dictionary example: We keep things like suitcases and holiday decorations in the loft.

individual

(noun) SPECIAL.a person with a particular characteristic. Dictionary examples: a ruthless individual These are all hard-working individuals.

development

(noun) START.[U] when something starts to happen or exist. Dictionary example: New vacccines may prevent the development of some cancers.

law

(noun) STATEMENT.[C] a statement or relationship that is always true in science, mathematics, etc. Dictionary examples: the laws of physics the law of averages/gravity

block

(noun) STOP PROGRESS.something that makes it difficult to move or make progress. Dictionary example: Lack of money has been the main *stumbling* block.

flashback

(noun) STORY.part of a film or book that goes back in time to something that happened before the main story began. Dictionary example: There are several flashbacks to the character's childhood.

interpretation

(noun) STORY/MUSIC.the way someone performs a particular play, piece of music, etc. Dictionary example: a beautiful interpretation of Swan Lake

flair

(noun) STYLE.[U] when you do something in an exciting and interesting way. Dictionary example: He played with great imagination and flair.

deposit

(noun) SUBSTANCE.a layer of a substance that has developed from a natural or chemical process. Dictionary example: deposits of iron ore

implication

(noun) SUGGESTION.[C or U] a suggestion of something that you make without saying it directly. Dictionary example: The implication was that the school had to do much better or it would be closed.

match

(noun) SUITABLE.[no plural] something which is similar to or combines well with something else. Dictionary example: The curtains look great - they're a perfect match for the sofa.

anchor

(noun) SUPPORT.someone or something that gives support when needed. Dictionary example: She was my anchor when things were difficult for me.

instruction

(noun) TEACHING/TRAINING.[U] the activity of teaching or training someone, or the information you are being taught. Dictionary example: The course gives you basic instruction in car maintenance and repairs.

host

(noun) TELEVISION.[C] someone who introduces the guests on a radio or television program. Dictionary example: a talk show host

instruction

(noun) TELL.[C] something that someone tells you to do. Dictionary example: He gave me strict instructions to get there by eight.

coldness

(noun) TEMPERATURE.the state of having a low temperature. Dictionary example: I was distracted by the coldness of my feet.

balcony

(noun) THEATER.the seats in an upper part of a theater. Dictionary example: We had seats in the balcony.

house

(noun) THEATRE.the people watching a performance or the area where they sit. Dictionary example: The actors played to a full house.

band

(noun) THIN PIECE.a thin, flat piece or circle of material put around something or used to hold things together. Dictionary examples: I have two bands for this watch, one black and one red. a rubber band.

bundle

(noun) TIED GROUP.a number of things that are tied together. Dictionary example: a bundle of letters/clothes

career

(noun) TIME.the time that you spend doing a particular job. Dictionary example: She began her acting career in TV commercials.

circuit

(noun) TRACK.a path, route, or race track that is shaped like a circle. Dictionary example: There is a fitness circuit in the woods.

institution

(noun) TRADITION.a custom that has existed for a long time. Dictionary example: the institution of marriage

bark

(noun) TREE.the hard, outside part of a tree. Dictionary example: The bark of the birch tree is white.

fraud

(noun) TRICK.[C] someone or something that deceives people by pretending to be someone or something that they are not. Dictionary example: She claimed to be a journalist, but she was just a fraud.

confidence

(noun) TRUST.trusting someone's ability or believing that something will produce good results Dictionary example: Kate's new to the job, but I've got *every* confidence *in* her.

matter

(noun) TYPE OF THING.[U] a particular type of substance or thing. Dictionary examples: vegetable matter printed matter

grasp

(noun) UNDERSTAND.when you understand something. Dictionary example: He has a good grasp of of English grammar.

coolness

(noun) UNFRIENDLY.the quality of being unfriendly. Dictionary example: He was a little insulted by her coolness towards him.

creep

(noun) UNPLEASANT.someone who you think is unpleasant. Dictionary example: Her boss is a real creep.

application

(noun) USE

anticipation

(noun) WAITING.when you are waiting for something to happen, usually with excitement. Dictionary example: The children were breathless with anticipation.

label

(noun) WORD.a word or phrase that is used to describe the qualities of someone or something, usually in a way that is not fair. Dictionary example: He seems to be stuck with the label "troublemaker."

care

(noun) WORRY.a feeling of worry. Dictionary example: He was sixteen years old and didn't have a care in the world.

alarm

(noun) WORRY.a sudden feeling of fear or worry that something bad might happen. Dictionary example: There's no need for alarm - everything is fine.

composition

(noun) WRITING MUSIC.[U] the process or skill of writing music. Dictionary example: He taught composition at Yale.

allocation

(noun) [U] the providing of some money, time, space, etc., for a particular purpose Dictionary example: the allocation of funds/resources

hesitation

(noun) [U] when you pause before doing something, especially because you are nervous or not certain. Dictionary example: After a moment's hesitation, he unlocked the door.

dismay

(noun) a feeling of unhappiness and disappointment. Dictionary example: To our dismay, it started raining.

charisma

(noun) a natural power which some people have to influence or attract people. Dictionary example: He is a respected politician but he lacks charisma.

desperation

(noun) the state of being desperate. Dictionary example: I was overcome by a sense of desperation.

continuity

(noun) the state of continuing for a long period of time without being changed or stopped. Dictionary example: We are trying to provide continuity of care for these children.

artificial intelligence

(noun) the use of computer programs that can copy some qualities of the human mind, such as the ability to understand language and to learn from experience, or the study of how this can be done. Dictionary examples: A robot with true artificial intelligence hasn't been invented. This is a clearly written, but extremely superficial, introduction to the field of artificial intelligence (AI).

foul

(noun)In some sports, a foul is something that someone does that is not allowed by the rules. Dictionary example: The referee called it an intentional foul.

conception

(noun)[C or U] an idea about what something is like or a way of understanding something. Dictionary example: They have no conception of how ordinary people live.

conscience

(noun)[C or U] the part of you that makes you feel guilty when you have behaved badly. Dictionary examples: a guilty conscience. My conscience is clear because I've done nothing wrong.

contradiction

(noun)[C] a big difference between two things that are said or written about the same subject, or between what someone says and what they do. Dictionary example: There is a clear contradiction between what she says and what she does.

imitation

(noun)[C] a copy of something that is made to look like the real thing. Dictionary examples: It wasn't a genuine designer handbag, just a cheap imitation. imitation leather/fur

concession

(noun)[C] something that you agree to do or give to someone in order to end an argument. Dictionary example: Both sides will have to make concessions.

horizon

(noun)[U] the line in the distance where the sky seems to touch the land or sea. Dictionary example: We could see a large ship on the horizon.

goodness

(noun)[U] the quality of being good. Dictionary example: She believes in the goodness of human nature.

leave

(noun)[U] time allowed away from work for illness or another special purpose. Dictionary examples: maternity/sick leave She's (gone) on leave. I've asked if I can take a week's unpaid leave.

hostility

(noun)[U] unfriendly, angry behavior that shows that you dislike someone. Dictionary example: He tried to hide his hostility toward outsiders.

infancy

(noun)[U] when you are a baby. Dictionary example: Their fourth child died in infancy.

blend

(noun)a combination of two or more things. Dictionary example: Their music is a blend of jazz and African rhythms.

analogy

(noun)a comparison that shows how two things are similar. Dictionary example: He used the analogy of the mind, which has no form and is invisible, being like the sky.

arch

(noun)a curved structure that usually supports something, for example a bridge or wall. Dictionary example: Passing through the arch, you enter an open courtyard.

corpse

(noun)a dead person's body. Dictionary example: There were several corpses in the building.

contraceptive

(noun)a drug or object that prevents a woman from becoming pregnant. Dictionary example: They were not using contraceptives.

inhibition

(noun)a feeling of embarrassment or worry that prevents you from saying or doing what you want. Dictionary example: The whole point about dancing is to lose all your inhibitions.

awe

(noun)a feeling of great respect and sometimes fear. Dictionary example: I was filled with awe at the sheer size of the building.

loathing

(noun)a feeling of hating someone or something. Dictionary example: All I feel for him is loathing.

longing

(noun)a feeling of wanting something or someone very much. Dictionary examples: a longing for his homeland He gazed at her, his eyes full of longing.

confrontation

(noun)a fight or argument. Dictionary example: She witnessed a confrontation between the two men.

combat

(noun)a fight, especially during a war. Dictionary example: The aircraft was shot down in combat.

dialect

(noun)a form of a language that people speak in a particular part of a country. Dictionary example: They're speaking a local dialect.

delegation

(noun)a group of people who have been chosen to represent a much larger group of people. Dictionary example: a delegation of Chinese officials

fist

(noun)a hand closed into a ball with the fingers and thumb curled tightly together. Dictionary example: He banged his fist down angrily on the table.

coral

(noun)a hard, usually pink or white substance produced by a type of very small sea animal. Dictionary example: a coral reef

barn

(noun)a large building on a farm where crops or animals can be kept. Dictionary example: The machinery was kept in an old barn.

legislation

(noun)a law or a set of laws. Dictionary example: The government has promised to introduce legislation to limit fuel emissions from cars.

fluid

(noun)a liquid. Dictionary example: Drink plenty of fluids.

gaze

(noun)a long look at someone or something. Dictionary example: a steady/watchful gaze

drought

(noun)a long period when there is no rain and people do not have enough water. Dictionary example: A severe drought ruined the crops.

groan

(noun)a long, low sound such as one expressing pain, unhappiness, etc. Dictionary example: I could hear his groans from behind the door.

antibiotic

(noun)a medicine which cures infections by destroying harmful bacteria. Dictionary example: He is on antibiotics for an ear infection.

blister

(noun)a painful, raised area of skin with liquid inside, that you get if your skin has been rubbed or burned, or a similar area on a painted surface. Dictionary example: I've got a blister on my toe.

masterpiece

(noun)a painting, book, or movie that is generally considered to be of excellent quality. Dictionary example: "Mona Lisa" is widely regarded as Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece.

millennium

(noun)a period of 1000 years. Dictionary example: We had a party to celebrate the new millennium.

interval

(noun)a period of time between two actions, activities, or events. Dictionary example: After an interval of three days, the peace talks resumed.

materialist

(noun)a person who thinks that having money and possessions is the most important thing in life. Dictionary example: We hope our children will not be materialists.

inclination

(noun)what you usually are like or prefer, or the feeling that makes you want to do something. Dictionary examples: Tony has a strong inclination toward the arts. My inclination is to look for another job. She showed no inclination to leave.

closure

(noun)when a business, organization, etc. stops operating. Dictionary examples: The bad weather caused many school closures in the area. The company announced the closure of its Paris office.

burial

(noun)when a dead body is put into the ground. Dictionary example: The burial took place on Monday.

diagnosis

(noun)when a doctor says what is wrong with someone who is ill. Dictionary example: What's the diagnosis?

coup

(noun)when a group of people suddenly takes control of a country using force. Dictionary example: a military coup

consensus

(noun)when all the people in a group agree about something. Dictionary examples: to reach a consensus The general consensus is that we should wait and see what happens.

famine

(noun)when people living in a particular area do not have enough food for a long time causing suffering and death. Dictionary example: The floods were followed by a terrible famine.

inequality

(noun)when some groups in a society have more advantages than others. Dictionary example: social/racial inequality

intrusion

(noun)when someone becomes involved in a situation which people want to be private. Dictionary example: She could not bear the intrusion into her private life.

credibility

(noun)when someone can be believed and trusted. Dictionary example: This decision has damaged the President's credibility.

ignorance

(noun)when someone does not have enough knowledge, understanding, or information about something. Dictionary examples: There is widespread ignorance about how disease spreads. I was shocked by her total ignorance of world history.

inferiority

(noun)when someone feels they are not as good as other people or when something is not as good as another thing. Dictionary example: With these talented sisters, I always had a feeling of inferiority.

blackmail

(noun)when someone forces you to do something or to pay them money, by saying they will tell another person something that you want to keep secret. Dictionary example: She was charged with blackmail.

exile

(noun)when someone has to leave their home and live in another country, often for political reasons. Dictionary examples: He lives in exile in New York. The King was forced into exile.

intervention

(noun)when someone intervenes, especially to influence what happens. Dictionary example: Without medical intervention, the child would have died.

discretion

(noun)when someone is careful not to cause embarrassment or attract too much attention, especially by keeping something secret. Dictionary example: You can rely on my discretion.

impatience

(noun)when someone is impatient. Dictionary example: His impatience was obvious.

intolerance

(noun)when someone is intolerant. Dictionary example: He spoke out against racism and intolerance.

bribery

(noun)when someone is offered money or a present so that they will do something, usually something dishonest. Dictionary example: bribery and corruption

hypocrisy

(noun)when someone pretends to believe something that they do not really believe or that is the opposite of what they do or say at another time. Dictionary example: I can't stand their hypocrisy - they say they care about the poor but then they go home and drink champagne.

decay

(noun)when something decays. Dictionary example: Many of the buildings had fallen into decay.

ambiguity

(noun)when something has more than one possible meaning. Dictionary example: Legal documents must be free of ambiguity.

complexity

(noun)when something is complex. Dictionary example: a problem of great complexity

impossibility

(noun)when something is impossible. Dictionary example: What you're asking just can't be done - it's an impossibility.

conversion

(noun)when the appearance, form, or purpose of something is changed. Dictionary examples: the country's conversion to democracy Solar power is the conversion of the sun's energy into heat and electricity.

merger

(noun)when two or more companies or organizations join together. Dictionary example: The two companies announced their merger yesterday.

frenzy

(noun)when you are so excited, nervous, or anxious that you cannot control what you are doing. Dictionary example: She hit him in a frenzy of rage.

indifference

(noun)when you do not care about something or have any particular opinions about it. Dictionary example: an air of indifference

elimination

(noun)when you eliminate someone or something. Dictionary examples: the elimination of disease/pain. their elimination from the competition.

insomnia

(noun)when you find it difficult to sleep. Dictionary example: Many people suffer from insomnia.

forgiveness

(noun)when you forgive someone for something they have done. Dictionary example: They begged her for forgiveness.

deception

(noun)when you make someone believe something that is not true. Dictionary example: He was found guilty of obtaining money by deception.

dependence

(noun)when you need someone or something all the time in order to exist or continue. Dictionary example: Our society needs to reduce its dependence on the car.

divert

(verb) CHANGE ROUTE.to send someone or something somewhere different from where they were expecting to go. Dictionary examples: The plane was diverted to Stansted because of engine trouble. The police were diverting traffic away from the town.

clash

(verb) COLOR.[I] If colors or styles clash, they do not look good together. Dictionary example: You can't wear pink lipstick - it clashes with your dress.

contrast

(verb) COMPARE[T] to compare two people or things in order to show the differences between them. Dictionary example: If you contrast his early novels with his later work, you can see how his writing has developed.

count

(verb) CONSIDER.[T] to think of someone or something in a particular way. Dictionary examples: She counted Tim as her closest friend. You should count yourself lucky you weren't hurt.

fake

(verb) COPY. to copy something in order to deceive people. Dictionary example: The documents had been faked.

drown

(verb) COVER.If a loud noise drowns the sound of something else, it prevents that sound from being heard. Dictionary example: His voice was drowned out by the traffic.

confront

(verb) DEAL WITH.to see that a problem exists and try to deal with it. Dictionary example: First, they must confront their feelings of anger.

establish

(verb) DECIDE.to decide something. Dictionary example: Our first step must be to establish priorities for the weeks ahead.

commit

(verb) DECISION.to make a firm decision that you will do something. Dictionary example: He committed himself to helping others.

label

(verb) DESCRIBE.to describe the qualities of someone or something using a word or phrase. Dictionary example: He didn't want to be labeled a complainer, so he didn't raise any objection to the extra work.

earn

(verb) DESERVE.[T] to get something that you deserve because of your work, qualities, etc. Dictionary example: As a teacher you have to earn the respect of your students.

erode

(verb) DESTROY.[T]formal to gradually destroy something such as a quality or situation or to make it weaker. Dictionary example: Budget cuts could further erode the benefit package provided for by the contract.

fulfill

(verb) DEVELOP.to succeed in developing abilities or qualities to their fullest degree. Dictionary examples: Her immediate goal was to complete her novel, but her long-term goal was to fulfill her potential as a writer. I've finally found a job in which I can fulfil myself.

cultivate

(verb) DEVELOP.to try to develop or improve something. Dictionary example: She has cultivated an image as a tough negotiator.

contrast

(verb) DIFFERENCE.[I] If one thing contrasts with another, it is very different from it. Dictionary example: The sharpness of the lemons contrasts with the sweetness of the honey.

contradict

(verb) DIFFERENT.[T] If two things that are said or written about something contradict each other, they are so different that they cannot both be true. Dictionary example: His account of the accident contradicts the official government report.

establish

(verb) DISCOVER.to find out information or prove something. Dictionary example: The police are trying to establish how he died.

attack

(verb) DISEASE.[T] If a disease, chemical, etc., attacks someone or something, it damages it. Dictionary example: The virus attacks the central nervous system.

contract

(verb) DISEASE.[T] formal to get a serious disease. Dictionary example: She contracted malaria while living abroad.

leave

(verb) DO LATER[T] to do something later that you could do immediately. Dictionary examples: Don't leave your packing till the night before you go. I'll leave these letters till Monday. Don't leave it too late. They left booking their holiday till/to the last minute.

experiment

(verb) DO TESTS.to do an experiment. Dictionary example: Experimenting on mice can give us an idea of the effect of the disease in humans.

execute

(verb) DO.to do something, such as follow a plan or order. Dictionary example: to execute a deal/plan

bounce

(verb) E-MAIL.If e-mail bounces back, it is returned to you because the address is not correct or there is a computer problem. Dictionary example: I tried to send you an email, but it bounced back.

grip

(verb) EMOTION.When an emotion grips you, you feel it very strongly. Dictionary example: He was gripped by fear.

contain

(verb) EMOTION.to control your emotions. Dictionary examples: He could barely contain his anger. I could not contain myself any longer.

dump

(verb) END RELATIONSHIP.(informal) to suddenly end a romantic relationship Dictionary example: If he's so awful, why don't you just dump him?

kill

(verb) END. to stop an activity or experience completely. Dictionary example: This funding cut will kill the program.

close

(verb) END.to end, or to end something. Dictionary example: She closed the meeting with a short speech.

buzz

(verb) ENERGY.to be full of activity and excitement. Dictionary example: The crowd was buzzing with excitement.

clash

(verb) EVENT.[I] If two events clash, they happen at the same time so that you cannot go to them both. Dictionary example: Emma's party clashes with my brother's wedding.

demonstrate

(verb) EXPRESS. [T] to express or show that you have a feeling, quality, or ability. Dictionary example: He has demonstrated a genuine interest in the project.

dazzle

(verb) EXTREMELY GOOD.If you are dazzled by someone or something, you think they are extremely good or exciting. Dictionary example: I was dazzled by his intelligence and good looks.

echo

(verb) REPEAT.[T] to repeat something that someone else has said or to express ideas or feelings similar to those of someone else. Dictionary examples: This report echoes some of the earlier research I've read. Her feelings are echoed by other parents in the same situation.

mark

(verb) REPRESENT.[T] to represent or show a characteristic of a person or thing or feeling. Dictionary example: The signing of the treaty marked a major milestone on the road to European union.

lie

(verb) RESPONSIBILITY/BLAME.If responsibility, blame, a decision, a choice, etc., lies with someone, they have responsibility, must make the decision, etc. Dictionary examples: Responsibility for the disaster must ultimately lie with the government. Where does the blame lie?

decide

(verb) RESULT. [T] to cause something to have a particular result. Dictionary example: This match will decide the tournament.

gamble

(verb) RISK MONEY.to risk money on the result of a game, race, or competition. Dictionary example: He gambled away all of her savings.

maintain

(verb) SAY SOMETHING IS TRUE.to say that you are certain something is true. Dictionary examples: She maintains that she's being criticized simply for telling the truth. Dunn has always maintained his innocence.

formulate

(verb) SAY.to say what you think or feel after thinking carefully. Dictionary example: to formulate an answer/reply

launch

(verb) SEND.to send a spacecraft or rocket into the sky, or a ship into the water. Dictionary example: On the last shuttle mission, the crew launched a communications satellite.

form

(verb) SHAPE.[I or T] to take or to make something take a particular shape Dictionary examples: Hold hands and form a circle. Form the dough into little balls.

frown

(verb) SHOW ANGER.to show on your face that you are annoyed or worried by moving your eyebrows together. Dictionary example: She frowned when I mentioned his name.

exhibit

(verb) SHOW QUALITY.to show a feeling, quality, or ability. Dictionary example: The crew exhibited great courage when the plane crashed.

drift

(verb) SITUATION.to get into a situation or job without having any particular plan. Dictionary example: He drifted into acting after college.

grin

(verb) SMILE.to smile a big smile. Dictionary example: He grinned at me from the doorway.

indulge

(verb) SOMEONE ELSE.[T] to let someone do or have what they want Dictionary example: She indulged the kids and let them stay up late.

beat

(verb) SOUND.[I or T] to hit against something, making sound in a continuous or regular pattern. Dictionary examples: He steadily beat the drum. We could hear the pigeons beating their wings. Rain beat against the windows.

click

(verb) SOUND.[I or T] to make a short, sharp sound, or to use something to make this sound. Dictionary example: The door clicked shut behind him.

blow

(verb) SOUND.[I or T] to make a sound by forcing air out of your mouth and through an instrument. Dictionary example: Ann blew a few notes on the trumpet.

echo

(verb) SOUND.[I] If a sound echoes, or a place echoes with a sound, you hear the sound again because you are in a large, empty space. Dictionary example: Their voices echoed around the room.

buzz

(verb) SOUND.to make a continuous noise like a bee. Dictionary example: I can hear something buzzing.

address

(verb) SPEAK.(formal) to speak to someone, or to give a speech to an audience. Dictionary example: He addressed the crowd after receiving the award.

live

(verb) STAY ALIVE.[I] to keep yourself alive. Dictionary examples: She's so poor - I wonder how she lives. He's living off the money he inherited from his father.

hang

(verb) STAY.[I] to stay in the air for a long time. Dictionary example: Smoke from the campfires hung in the air.

catch

(verb) STICK.[I or T] to stick somewhere, or to make something stick somewhere. Dictionary example: My dress caught on the door handle as I was leaving.

glue

(verb) STICK.to stick something to something else with glue. Dictionary example: Do you think you can glue this vase back together?

block

(verb) STOP PROGRESS.to stop something from happening or making progress. Dictionary example: The city council has blocked plans for a mall.

break

(verb) STORM.[I] If a storm breaks, it starts suddenly. Dictionary example: The storm broke just as we reached home.

imply

(verb) SUGGEST.to suggest or show something, without saying it directly. Dictionary examples: He implied (that) the error was mine. I didn't mean to imply that I wouldn't go to the movie with you.

back

(verb) SUPPORT.[T] to give support or help to a person, plan, or idea. Dictionary example: The board refuses to back our plan.

carry

(verb) SUPPORT.to support the weight of something Dictionary example: Is the ice thick enough to carry my *weight*?

fly

(verb) TAKE/SEND.[T] to take or send people or goods somewhere by aircraft Dictionary example: She was flown to the hospital by helicopter.

instruct

(verb) TEACH.to teach someone about something. Dictionary example: She is there to instruct people in the safe use of the gym equipment.

leak

(verb) TELL.[T] If someone leaks secret information, they intentionally tell people about it. Dictionary example: Details of the report had been leaked to the press.

devise

(verb)informal someone who behaves badly. Dictionary example: He's an absolute devil!

examine

(verb) TEST.formal to test someone to see how much they know or how well they can do something. Dictionary example: You'll be examined in three main areas: speaking, listening, and reading comprehension.

consider

(verb) THINK OF OTHERS.to care about or respect other people or their feelings or wishes. Dictionary example: She never considers anyone but herself.

hit

(verb) THINK.(informal) If an idea or thought hits you, you suddenly think of it. Dictionary example: The idea for the book hit me in the middle of the night.

bind

(verb) TIE.to tie something together with string, rope, etc. Dictionary example: His hands were bound behind his back.

fly

(verb) TIME.[I] If time flies, it passes very quickly. Dictionary example: There was plenty to do, and the time flew.

drag

(verb) TIME.[I] to continue for too much time in a boring way. Dictionary examples: The play dragged during the second act. Negotiations dragged on for months.

introduce

(verb) TO AN AUDIENCE. to tell an audience who is going to speak to them or perform for them. Dictionary example: I'd like to introduce Rachel Elliott who is our speaker this evening.

handle

(verb) TOUCH.to touch, hold, or pick up something. Dictionary example: You must wash your hands before handling food.

chase

(verb) TRY.[T] to try very hard to get something. Dictionary example: There are hundreds of graduates chasing very few jobs.

appreciate

(verb) UNDERSTAND.to understand something about a situation, especially that it is complicated or difficult. Dictionary example: I appreciate that it is a difficult decision for you to make.

bind

(verb) UNITE.to unite people. Dictionary example: Culture and language bind people together.

disturb

(verb) UPSET.to make someone feel anxious or upset. Dictionary example: Some scenes are violent and may disturb younger viewers.

force

(verb) USE POWER.to use physical strength or effort to make something move or open. Dictionary examples: Move your leg up gently when you're doing this exercise, but don't force it. If you force the zipper, it'll break. She forced the window open.

exercise

(verb) USE.[T] formal to use a power, right, or ability. Dictionary example: You should always exercise your right to vote.

accelerate

(verb) VEHICLE.to move or cause yourself or a vehicle to move faster. Dictionary example: The car in front accelerated and left us behind.

loom

(verb) WORRY.If an unpleasant event looms, it is likely to happen soon. Dictionary example: The threat of closure looms over the workforce.

deepen

(verb) WORSE/STRONGER.to become worse or stronger, or to make something become worse or stronger. Dictionary example: The economic crisis has deepened.

indulge

(verb) YOURSELF.[I or T] to let yourself do or have something that you enjoy but which may be bad for you. Dictionary examples: When I get my first paycheck I'm going to indulge in a shopping spree. Go on, indulge yourself! Have another chocolate.

depict

(verb) to represent someone or something in a picture or story. Dictionary example: The cartoon depicts the president as a vampire.

exemplify

(verb)(formal)to be or give a typical example of something. Dictionary example: This painting perfectly exemplifies the naturalistic style so popular at that time.

expire

(verb)If a legal document or agreement expires, you can no longer use it. Dictionary example: Your contract expired six months ago.

elapse

(verb)If time elapses, it passes. Dictionary example: Two years have elapsed since we last saw him.

merge

(verb)If two or more things merge, they combine or join, and if you merge two or more things, you combine or join them. Dictionary examples: The two companies merged. They're planning to merge the banks. The city's smaller libraries will be merged into a large, central one.

grace

(verb)When a person or object graces a place or thing, they make it more attractive. Dictionary example: Her face has graced the covers of magazines across the world.

caution

(verb)[I or T] formal to warn someone of something. Dictionary example: They were cautioned against traveling alone through the desert.

crumble

(verb)[I or T] to break into small pieces, or to make something break into small pieces. Dictionary example: Buildings crumbled as the earthquake struck.

debate

(verb)[I or T] to discuss a subject in a formal way. Dictionary example: These issues need to be debated openly.

bond

(verb)[I] to develop a strong relationship with someone. Dictionary example: Physical contact helps a mother bond with her baby.

lecture

(verb)[I] to give a formal talk to a group of people, especially students. Dictionary example: She's lecturing on the geology of the region.

flourish

(verb)[I] to grow or develop well. Dictionary example: The company soon began to flourish under his expert management.

cloud

(verb)[T] to make someone confused, or make something harder to understand Dictionary example: to cloud someone's judgment/vision.

dispute

(verb)a disagreement, especially one that lasts a long time. Dictionary examples: He and his neighbor have a long-running dispute over noise. Her skills are not in dispute, but she doesn't produce enough.

inhabit

(verb)formal.to live in a place. Dictionary example: an area inhabited by artists and writers

confine

(verb)to prevent someone from leaving a place or to prevent something from spreading. Dictionary examples: He was confined to a prison cell for several days. The disease outbreak was confined to the city.

glow

(verb)to produce a soft, warm light. Dictionary example: toys that glow in the dark

haul

(verb)to pull something somewhere slowly and with difficulty. Dictionary example: They hauled the piano into the living room.

defy

(verb)to refuse to obey someone or something. Dictionary example: Some of these children openly defy their teachers.

embody

(verb)to represent an idea or quality exactly. Dictionary example: He embodies the values of hard work and fair play.

endorse

(verb)to say publicly that you support a person, product or action. Dictionary example: The idea was endorsed by a majority of members.

exclaim

(verb)to say something suddenly and loudly because you are surprised, annoyed, excited, etc. Dictionary example: "How terrible!" she exclaimed.

allege

(verb)to say that something is true or state something as a fact without giving proof. Dictionary examples: Administration of the program is alleged to have cost $15,000 last month. The school district alleges that the state has not continued to adequately finance schools.

condemn

(verb)to say very strongly that you think something is wrong or very bad. Dictionary example: The President was quick to condemn the terrorists.

diagnose

(verb)to say what is wrong with someone who is ill. Dictionary example: She was diagnosed with cancer last year.

emit

(verb)to send out gas, heat, light, etc. into the air. Dictionary example: The machine emits a high-pitched sound when you press the button.

hum

(verb)to sing without opening your mouth. Dictionary example: She walked around the house, humming a song.

amend

(verb)to slightly change the words of a document. Dictionary example: The contract has now been amended.

linger

(verb)to stay somewhere for a long time. Dictionary example: The smell from the fire still lingered hours later.

contemplate

(verb)to think about something for a long time or in a serious way. Dictionary examples: I'm contemplating changing my name. He even contemplated suicide.

juggle

(verb)to try to do several things at once, when it is difficult to have enough time. Dictionary example: Many women have to juggle work and family.

lobby

(verb)to try to persuade the government or an official group to do something. Dictionary examples: Small businesses have lobbied hard for/against changes in the tax laws. Local residents lobbied to have the factory shut down. Council members have been lobbying colleagues on how to vote.

combat

(verb)to try to stop something unpleasant or harmful from happening or increasing. Dictionary example: new measures to combat the rise in crime

battle

(verb)to try very hard to do something difficult or to fight against someone or something. Dictionary examples: Throughout the campaign, Johnson was battling health problems. Congress is battling with the White House over funding.

channel

(verb)to use money or energy for a particular purpose. Dictionary example: We've channelled all our resources into this project.

crave

(verb)to want something very much. Dictionary example: a child who craves affection

alert

(verb)to warn someone of a possibly dangerous situation. Dictionary example: The auto manufacturer alerted owners to a problem with the window and asked that they bring the car in to be checked.

10/20, etc. months/years sb's junior

10/20, etc. months/years younger than someone. Dictionary example: He was born in April, so he's three months my junior.

come around

AGREE.to change your opinion about something, or agree to an idea or a plan that you were against. Dictionary example: I know Maria doesn't like you borrowing her car but she'll soon come around.

catch up with sb

BAD THING. If something bad that you have done or that has been happening to you catches up with you, it begins to cause problems for you. Dictionary example: I can feel the stress of the last few weeks beginning to catch up with me.

come in

BE INVOLVED.used to describe how someone is involved in a situation, story, or plan. Dictionary example: We need people to help clean up, and that's where you come in.

come out

BE REMOVED.If dirt or a mark comes out of something, it disappears when you clean it. Dictionary example: Will this red wine stain come out?

come out

BE SAID.If something that you say comes out in a particular way, you say it in that way. Dictionary example: I wanted to tell her that I loved her, but it came out all wrong.

come out

BECOME KNOWN.to become known. Dictionary example: The truth about him will come out in the end.

come across

CLEAR.If an idea or emotion comes across, it is expressed clearly and people understand it. Dictionary example: His bitterness comes across in his poetry.

lean on sb

CONVINCE.to try to convince or force someone do what you want. Dictionary example: The other members will probably lean on her to get her to stay.

lean on sb

DEPEND ON.to depend on someone or something. Dictionary example: They had leaned on the dictionary as the authority that answered all their questions.

hold back sth or hold sth back

EMOTION.to stop yourself from showing an emotion. Dictionary example: She couldn't hold back the tears.

come along

EXIST.to start to exist. Dictionary example: I gave up mountain climbing when my first child came along.

draw the line (at sth)

If someone says they know where to draw the line, they are talking about knowing at what point an activity or situation becomes unacceptable because it is wrong or too extreme. Dictionary example: I'll do what I can to help a friend, but I draw the line when someone asks me to lie for them.

(be) out of line

If someone's actions or words are out of line, they are beyond what is considered acceptable in that situation. Dictionary example: You can disagree with her, but calling her dishonest was way out of line.

(be) on the line

If someone's job, reputation, life, etc., is on the line, they may lose it. Dictionary example: If we don't win the contract, all our jobs are on the line.

blow your mind

If something blows your mind, you are very excited or surprised by it. Dictionary example: There was one scene in the movie that really blew my mind.

the naked eye

If something can be seen by the naked eye, it is big enough to be seen without special equipment. Dictionary example: These bugs are so tiny you cannot see them with the naked eye.

in proportion to

If something changes in proportion to another thing, it changes to the same degree as that thing. Dictionary example: Your tax payment increases in proportion to your salary.

come from the heart

If something comes from the heart it is something you strongly feel or believe. Dictionary example: Her speech came from the heart.

come out of sth

If something comes out of a process or event, it is one of the results. Dictionary example: I hope something good can come out of this mess.

do the job

If something does the job, it achieves the desired result. Dictionary example: I need somewhere to keep these papers - this folder should do the job.

do the trick

If something does the trick, it solves a problem or has the result you want. Dictionary example: If you have a headache, an aspirin will usually do the trick.

get you nowhere

If something gets you nowhere, it does not help you to succeed. Dictionary example: Bad manners will get you nowhere.

give way

If something gives way, it falls because it is not strong enough to support the weight on top of it. Dictionary example: The wooden seats gave way under the weight of the crowd.

go against the grain

If something goes against the grain, it is something you would not normally do. Dictionary example: It goes against the grain to throw all this food away.

behind the scenes

If something happens behind the scenes, it happens secretly. Dictionary example: A lot of hard work has been going on behind the scenes.

a matter of confidence/luck/waiting, etc.

If something is a matter of confidence/luck/waiting, etc., that is what you need for it to happen. Dictionary example: Learning languages is just a matter of hard work.

be at stake

If something is at stake, it is in a situation where it might be lost or damaged. Dictionary example: We have to act quickly - people's lives are at stake.

dear to sb/sb's heart

If something is dear to someone or dear to someone's heart, it is very important to them. Dictionary example: The charity was very dear to his heart.

for the best

If something is for the best, it seems unpleasant now, but will improve a situation in the future. Dictionary example: Moving to a smaller apartment really was for the best.

in miniature

If something is in miniature, it is a very small copy of something else. Dictionary example: a model of the ship in miniature

not be the end of the world

If something is not the end of the world, it will not cause very serious problems. Dictionary example: It won't be the end of the world if I don't get this job.

hang in the balance

If something is or hangs in the balance, nobody knows if it will continue to exist in the future or what will happen to it. Dictionary example: The game hung in the balance until the last seconds.

to sb's credit

If something is to someone's credit, they deserve praise for it. Dictionary example: To his credit, Bill never blamed her for the incident.

beyond a/the shadow of a doubt

If something is true beyond a shadow of a doubt, it is certainly true. Dictionary example: He convinced me , but it hasn't been proved beyond the shadow of a doubt.

loom large

If something looms large, it becomes very important and often causes worry. Dictionary example: The issue of pay will loom large at this year's conference.

make your blood run cold

If something makes your blood run cold, it frightens you very much. Dictionary example: I heard a tapping on the window which made my blood run cold.

slip your mind

If something slips your mind, you forget about it. Dictionary example: I meant to tell her you had phoned, but it completely slipped my mind.

ring hollow

If something someone says rings hollow, it does not sound true or sincere. Dictionary example: He said he was pleased, but his words rang hollow.

spring to mind

If something springs to mind, you suddenly think of it. Dictionary example: Mention fashion and Kate's name immediately springs to mind.

bear fruit

If something that someone does bears fruit, it produces successful results. Dictionary example: Some of their research is now bearing fruit, and the results are interesting.

be lacking

If something that you need is lacking, you do not have enough of it. Dictionary example: Enthusiasm has been sadly lacking these past few months at work.

your best bet

Someone's best bet is the action most likely to be successful. Dictionary example: If you want to get to the theater on time, your best bet is to get a cab.

in its infancy

Something that is in its infancy has only just begun to develop. Dictionary example: In the 1950s, space travel was in its infancy.

come out

TELL.to tell people that you are homosexual . Dictionary example: He hasn't come out to his family.

catch on

UNDERSTAND.informal to understand something, especially after a long time. Dictionary example: It took him a while to catch on to what we meant.

kick off

When an event kicks off, it begins. Dictionary example: What time does the parade kick off?

fall into place

When events or details that you did not understand before fall into place, they become easy to understand. Dictionary example: When Jo told me she had a twin sister, everything fell into place.

join forces

When two people or groups join forces, they act or work together. Dictionary example: She joined forces with her sister-in-law to set up a restaurant.

kick (sth) off

When you kick off a discussion or activity, you start it. Dictionary example: Should we kick off the session with a presentation from Lisa?

back up sth or back sth up

[often passive] to prove that something is true. Dictionary example: His claims are backed up by recent research.

deep in thought/conversation

giving all of your attention to what you are thinking or talking about, and not noticing anything else. Dictionary example: I noticed that Ali and Ben were deep in conversation.

every other day/week, etc.

happening every two days/weeks, etc., not each day/week, etc. Dictionary example: Alice goes to the gym every other day.

across the board

happening or having an effect on everyone or everything in every area. Dictionary examples: The improvement has been across the board, with all divisions reporting increased profits. The mayor threatened across-the-board spending cuts.

in a rut

in a bad situation where you do the same things all the time, or where it is impossible to make progress. Dictionary example: He seems to be stuck in a rut at the moment.

in cold blood

in a cruel way, without showing any emotion. Dictionary example: He shot three policemen in cold blood.

in a fix

in a difficult situation that causes you trouble or problems. Dictionary example: He's in a fix and needs our help.

in no uncertain terms

in a direct and often angry way. Dictionary example: I told him to go away in no uncertain terms.

off the beaten track

in a place where few people go. Dictionary example: I prefer to take my vacation somewhere off the beaten track.

by the same token

in a similar way. Dictionary example: You have to let people know your plans in good time and, by the same token, they should give you some advance warning.

to all intents and purposes

in all the most important ways. Dictionary example: To all intents and purposes, the project was a disaster.

with bated breath

in an excited or anxious way. Dictionary example: I waited with bated breath as the results were read out.

a hold on/over sth/sb

power or control over something or someone. Dictionary example: Their company has a strong hold on the computer market.

in attendance

present at an event. Dictionary example: They have doctors in attendance at every match.

behind closed doors

privately and not in public. Dictionary example: Most of the deals were made behind closed doors.

as opposed to

rather than or instead of. Dictionary examples: I'd prefer to go in May, as opposed to September. I'm talking about English football, as opposed to American football.

How strange/silly/good, etc., is that?

said to mean that something is strange/silly, etc. Dictionary example: I found my keys in the fridge - how silly is that?

if you ask me

said when giving your opinion on something. Dictionary example: If you ask me, he doesn't really care about his friends.

arts

subjects, such as history, languages and philosophy, that are not scientific subjects. Dictionary examples: the School/College of Arts and Sciences a Bachelor/Master of Arts degree

on impulse

suddenly and without thinking first. Dictionary example: I tend to act on impulse.

form an opinion/impression, etc.

to begin to have a particular opinion or idea about something because of the information you have. Dictionary example: I formed the opinion that I was not really welcome there any more.

get underway

to begin. Dictionary example: The film festival gets underway on July 11th.

conduct yourself

to behave in a particular way. Dictionary example: She conducted herself with great dignity.

go too far

to behave in a way that upsets or annoys other people. Dictionary example: He's said some stupid things in the past, but this time he's gone too far.

assert yourself

to behave or speak in a strong, confident way. Dictionary example: She has to learn to assert herself.

have a chip on your shoulder

to blame other people for something bad that has happened to you and continue to feel angry about it. Dictionary example: She's always had a real chip on her shoulder because she didn't go to college.

take/hold sb hostage

to catch or keep someone as a prisoner. Dictionary example: Two tourists were held hostage by terrorists.

make waves

to cause problems by asking difficult questions or criticizing. Dictionary example: He has earned a reputation for making waves during political campaigns.

lead sb to do sth

to cause someone to do or think something. Dictionary examples: What led you to think that? The brochure led me to believe that the price included home delivery.

bring out the best in sb

to cause someone's best qualities to show. Dictionary example: This chance to work with young people has really brought out the best in him.

breed resentment/confusion/contempt, etc.

to cause something to develop, especially something bad. Dictionary example: He believes that movies like this breed violence.

give rise to sth

to cause something. Dictionary example: The bacteria live in the human body but do not give rise to any symptoms.

lead sb to a conclusion

to cause you to think that something is probably true. Dictionary example: So you thought I was leaving, did you? What led you to that conclusion?

give sb a hard time

to choose to believe what someone tells you even though it may be wrong or a lie. Dictionary example: She says her train was late, so I suppose we'd better give her the benefit of the doubt.

give sb the benefit of the doubt

to choose to believe what someone tells you even though it may be wrong or a lie. Dictionary example: She says her train was late, so I suppose we'd better give her the benefit of the doubt.

put sb/sth first

to consider someone or something to be the most important thing. Dictionary example: Most couples put their children first.

keep (sth) up

to continue doing something or continue something without change. Dictionary example: He was having trouble keeping up the payments on his car.

be alive and well/kicking

to continue to live or exist and be full of energy, or to be popular or successful. Dictionary examples: Jennifer is alive and well and living in New Zealand. Traditional jazz is still alive and well in Chicago.

keep at sth

to continue working hard at something difficult. Dictionary example: Learning a language is hard but you've just got to keep at it.

drive sb/sth out

to force someone or something to leave a place. Dictionary example: The supermarket has driven many small shops out of the area.

lose sight of sth

to forget about an important idea or fact because you are thinking too much about other, less important things. Dictionary example: We mustn't lose sight of the original aims of this project.

lose count

to forget how many of something there is. Dictionary example: I've lost count of how many of times she's been late.

derive comfort/pleasure, etc. from sth

to get a positive feeling or advantage from someone or something. Dictionary example: I derive much pleasure from gardening.

collect yourself/your thoughts

to get control over your feelings and thoughts. Dictionary example: I'll give you a moment to collect your thoughts.

come into sth

to get money from someone who has died. Dictionary example: Just after I finished college, I came into a little money.

clear the air

to get rid of bad feelings between two people or groups. Dictionary examples: We had a big argument, but I think it helped clear the air. The meeting Friday will help clear the air and clarify some issues that need to be addressed.

let off steam

to get rid of your anger, excitement, etc. by being noisy or using a lot of energy. Dictionary example: The children need to run around and let off steam.

catch sb's eye

to get someone's attention by looking at them. Dictionary example: I tried to catch her eye, but she had already turned away.

come by sth

to get something, especially something that is unusual or difficult to find. Dictionary example: Cheap organic food is still difficult to come by.

bury yourself in sth

to give all your attention to something. Dictionary example: He buried himself in his work.

assign sb to sth

to give someone a particular job or place to work. Dictionary example: Which police officer has been assigned to this case?

dole sth out

to give something, especially money, to several people or in large amounts. Dictionary example: I've had to dole out nearly $500 this month.

filter down/in/through, etc.

to gradually appear. Dictionary example: The sunlight filtered through the bedroom curtains.

go downhill

to gradually become worse. Dictionary example: After his wife died, his health started to go downhill.

close in

to gradually get nearer to someone, usually in order to attack them or stop them from escaping. Dictionary example: Police closed in on the demonstrators.

drift off

to gradually start to sleep. Dictionary example: I drifted off during the lecture.

jump to conclusions

to guess the facts about a situation without having all of the information. Dictionary example: It's not fair to jump to conclusions based on one incident.

lead up to sth

to happen before an event. Dictionary example: The pilot had no recollection of the events leading up to the crash.

come about

to happen or start to happen. Dictionary example: How did the idea for an arts festival come about?

become of sb/sth

to happen to someone or something. Dictionary examples: What became of your friend Harry? I don't know what will become of the farm after we sell it.

come between sb

to harm the relationship between two or more people. Dictionary example: I won't let anything come between me and my children.

stand a chance

to have a chance of success or of achieving something. Dictionary example: He doesn't stand much of a chance in the election.

be endowed with sth

to have a particular quality or characteristic. Dictionary example: The country is richly endowed with natural resources.

recharge your batteries

to have a period of rest and relaxation so that you feel energetic again. Dictionary example: She took a trip to the south of France to recharge her batteries.

make your presence felt

to have a strong effect on other people. Dictionary example: The new police chief has really made his presence felt.

be hungry for sth

to have a strong wish for something. Dictionary example: The journalists were hungry for more details of the accident.

keep up (with sth)

to increase or make progress at the same speed as something or someone else so that you stay at the same level as them. Dictionary example: Prices have been rising very fast and wages haven't kept up.

mean well

to intend to be helpful or kind but cause problems instead. Dictionary example: He means well, but he keeps trying to help with things he doesn't really understand.

mess around with sth

to interfere with or change something that doesn't need to be changed or that you don't want changed. Dictionary example: Has someone been messing around with the settings on my computer again?

butt in

to interrupt or join in a conversation or activity when the other people do not want you to. Dictionary example: The interviewer kept butting in and wouldn't let me answer the question.

hold down a job

to keep a job. Dictionary example: It can be difficult for a mother to hold down a full-time job.

put sb to death

to kill someone as a punishment. Dictionary example: The convicted murderers will be put to death.

laugh/shout/scream, etc., your head off

to laugh/shout/scream, etc., very much and very loudly. Dictionary example: The show was great! I laughed my head off.

learn sth the hard way

to learn something by experiencing a lot of problems or difficulty. Dictionary example: He doesn't want to take my advice, so I guess he'll have to learn the hard way.

leave someone to their own devices

to leave someone to do what they want to do. Dictionary example: With both parents out at work, the kids were often left to their own devices.

strike a match

to light a match in order to produce fire. Dictionary example: I struck a match and lit the candle.

hold sth against sb

to like or respect someone less because they have done something wrong or behaved badly. Dictionary example: It was his mistake but I won't hold it against him.

have seen better days

to look old or be in bad condition because of a lot of use. Dictionary example: This jacket has seen better days.

flick through sth

to look quickly at the pages of a magazine, book, etc. Dictionary example: I was just flicking through a magazine.

arrive at an solution/conclusion/answer, etc.

to make a decision about something after a lot of thought. Dictionary example: We didn't arrive at any firm conclusions.

cast doubt on sb/sth

to make people feel uncertain about someone or something. Dictionary examples: Witnesses have cast doubt on the suspect's innocence. A leading scientist has cast doubts on government claims that the medication is safe.

drag sb along/out/to, etc.

to make someone go somewhere they do not want to go. Dictionary examples: She dragged me along to look at shoes with her. I have to drag myself out of bed every morning.

throw sb in at the deep end

to make someone start a new and difficult job or activity without helping them or preparing them for it. Dictionary example: My first job was to organize a huge conference - they really threw me in at the deep end!

be hard on sb

to make someone unhappy by causing them problems. Dictionary example: Don't be too hard on her - she's just learning the job.

fire sb's imagination

to make someone very excited or interested in something. Dictionary example: His paintings really fired my imagination.

make sb's day

to make someone very happy. Dictionary example: Seeing those little kids having so much fun just made my day.

add insult to injury

to make someone's bad situation worse by doing something else to upset them. Dictionary example: To add insult to injury, we had to pay for the damage!

get/start the ball rolling

to make something begin or happen. Dictionary example: We have to get the ball rolling on this project soon.

flash by/through

to move or happen quickly. Dictionary example: A fire engine flashed by.

creep along/down/in/out, etc.

to move very quietly and carefully. Dictionary example: I crept out of the room.

bury your face/head in sth

to move your face/head somewhere where it is hidden. Dictionary example: She buried her face in her hands.

be crying out for sth

to need something very much. Dictionary example: a school that's crying out for more money

be at odds with sb/sth

to not agree with someone or something. Dictionary examples: The two brothers were always at odds. His remark was at odds with our report.

(keep sb) at arm's length

to not allow someone to become too friendly with you. Dictionary example: I always had the feeling she was keeping me at arm's length.

be at the mercy of sb/sth

to not be able to protect yourself from something or someone that you cannot control. Dictionary example: Farmers are often at the mercy of the weather.

be no match for sb/sth

to not be as good as someone or something else. Dictionary example: Gibson ran well but was no match for the young Italian.

be only human

to not be perfect. Dictionary example: Of course Tom makes mistakes - he's only human.

play games

to not deal with a situation seriously or honestly. Dictionary example: Someone's life is in danger here - we're not playing games.

not judge a book by its cover

to not decide what someone or something is like only by looking at them. Dictionary example: You know, his desk is a mess but don't judge a book by it's cover, he does careful, detailed work.

cut out sth or cut sth out

to not have the right qualities for something. Dictionary example: I'm not really cut out to be a nurse.

not take kindly to sth

to not like something that someone says or does. Dictionary example: He doesn't take kindly to criticism.

be blind to sth

to not notice something, or not want to notice something. Dictionary example: Drivers who speed are often blind to the risks to other drivers.

fall short of sth

to not reach a particular level, but only by a small amount. Dictionary example: Sales for the first half of this year fell just short of the target.

keep (sth) quiet

to not talk about something. Dictionary example: It might be wise to keep this quiet for a while.

keep sth from sb

to not tell someone about something. Dictionary example: Is there something you're keeping from me?

hand sth down or hand down sth

to pass possessions or traditions from older people to younger ones. Dictionary examples: a custom handed down through the generations This clock was handed down from my great-grandfather to my grandfather, then to my mother, and now to me.

foot the bill

to pay for something that costs a lot of money. Dictionary example: His parents can't afford to foot the bill for his college education.

be looking to do sth

to plan to do something. Dictionary example: I'm looking to start my own business.

play sth by ear

to play a piece of music by remembering the notes. Dictionary example: She played all the songs by ear.

keep/hold sb/sth at bay

to prevent someone or something being closer or causing your problems. Dictionary example: Gunmen kept police at bay for almost four hours.

lock sth away/in, etc.

to put something or someone in a place or container that is fastened with a key. Dictionary examples: The jewelry is locked away in a safe. He locked the documents in his filing cabinet.

dump sth on/in/down, etc.

to put something somewhere quickly and carelessly. Dictionary example: Henry dumped his bag on the table and went upstairs.

grasp at sth

to quickly try to get hold of something. Dictionary example: She grasped at the bushes as she fell.

be the center of attention

to receive more attention than anyone or anything else. Dictionary example: He loves to be the center of attention.

be flooded with sth

to receive so many messages, phone calls, etc., that you cannot deal with them. Dictionary example: We were flooded with calls from worried parents.

cut back (sth)

to reduce the amount of money being spent on something. Dictionary example: We have had to cut back on training this year.

stand your ground

to refuse to change your opinion or give in to an argument. Dictionary example: I kept trying to get my grandmother to find a smaller house, but she stood her ground.

let your guard down

to relax when you should be careful or ready to deal with something. Dictionary example: He's worried that if he lets his guard down someone may take advantage of him.

put your feet up

to relax, especially by sitting with your feet supported above the ground. Dictionary example: Put your feet up for half an hour before the kids get home.

keep a cool head

to remain calm in a difficult situation. Dictionary example: To be successful in business, you need to keep a cool head in negotiations.

make allowances for sb/sth

to remember that someone has a disadvantage which is not their fault when you are judging their behavior or work. Dictionary example: They made allowances for the fact that he was ill.

speak your mind

to say exactly what you think without worrying if it will upset anyone. Dictionary example: She has very strong opinions and she's not afraid to speak her mind.

put your foot in your mouth

to say something you should not say, especially something embarrassing. Dictionary example: He makes outrageous comments and is always putting his foot in his mouth.

attribute sth to sth

to say that something is caused by something else. Dictionary example: He attributes his success to hard work.

dedicate sth to sb

to say that something you have made or done is to show your love or respect for someone. Dictionary example: This book is dedicated to my daughter.

draw a comparison/distinction

to say that there is a similarity or difference between two things. Dictionary example: We need to draw a distinction between criticism and insults.

claim credit/responsibility/success, etc.

to say that you have done or achieved something. Dictionary example: No one has claimed responsibility for yesterday's bomb attack.

listen in

to secretly listen to someone else's conversation. Dictionary example: Do you think he's been listening in on our conversations?

catch sight of sth

to see something suddenly, often only for a short time. Dictionary example: He caught sight of himself in the mirror.

cast a spell on sb

to seem to use magic to attract someone. Dictionary example: The city had cast a spell on me and I never wanted to leave.

cheer sb on or cheer on sb

to shout loudly in order to encourage someone in a competition. Dictionary example: The race was tough, but I could hear all my friends cheering me on.

cry out (sth)

to shout or make a loud noise because you are frightened, hurt, etc. Dictionary example: She cried out in pain as she fell.

do sb/sth justice; do justice to sb/sth

to show the best or real qualities of something or someone. Dictionary example: This postcard doesn't do justice to the wonderful scenery.

with the compliments of sb

used by someone to express good wishes when they give you something free, for example in a restaurant. Dictionary example: Please accept this champagne with the compliments of the manager.

by any chance

used to ask in a polite way whether something is possible or true. Dictionary example: You're not Spanish by any chance, are you?

the far left/right

used to describe political groups whose opinions are very extreme. Dictionary example: He belongs to a far right group.

one of a kind

used to describe someone or something that is completely different from other people or things. Dictionary example: My Dad was one of a kind - funny, kind and generous.

you can't beat sth

used to emphasize that something is best. Dictionary example: You can't beat Pedro's for a great pizza.

No chance!/ Not a chance!

used to emphasize that there is no possibility of something happening. Dictionary example: "Do you think she'd go out with me?" "No chance!"

not have the faintest idea

used to emphasize that you do not know something. Dictionary example: I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about.

in essence

used to emphasize the most important idea or quality of something. Dictionary example: In essence, its purpose is to contain information.

for one thing

used to give a reason for something. Dictionary example: You can't give Amy that shirt - for one thing it wont fit her.

in my humble opinion

used to give your opinion about something, often when you are sure you are right. Dictionary example: In my humble opinion, that's the wrong decision.

in all probability

used to mean that something is very likely. Dictionary example: She will, in all probability, have left before we arrive.

it follows that

used to say that if one thing is true, another thing will also be true. Dictionary example: He's big, but it doesn't follow that he's strong.

darkness/night falls

used to say that it is becoming dark. Dictionary example: When darkness fell, I began to feel worried.

in a big way

used to say that someone or something does something to a large degree. Dictionary example: They celebrate birthdays in a big way.

a/one hell of a

used to say that someone or something is very good, big, etc. Dictionary examples: a hell of a noise He's one hell of a tennis player.

irrespective of sth

used to say that something does not affect a situation. Dictionary example: Everyone should be treated equally, irrespective of skin color.

so far, so good

used to say that something has gone well until now. Dictionary example: It's the first time I've done any decorating, but so far, so good.

not/never in your wildest dreams

used to say that something is better than anything you could imagine or hope for. Dictionary example: Never in my wildest dreams had I thought I would be offered a starring role in a Hollywood movie.

enough is enough

used to say that something is more than is needed or wanted or has gone on too long. Dictionary example: The play was dull and I decided enough is enough and left early.

I fail to see/understand

used to say that you do not accept something. Dictionary example: I fail to see why you cannot work on a Sunday.

No comment.

used to say that you do not want to answer someone's question. Dictionary example: "Will you be running for Congress?" "No comment."

have (got) to do/be sth

used to say that you feel certain that something is true or will happen. Dictionary examples: Interest rates have to come down at some point. There's got to be a better way of doing this.

come to think of it

used to say that you have just thought of something. Dictionary example: Come to think of it, I've got two batteries that you can have upstairs.

I don't blame him/them/you, etc.

used to say that you understand and accept the reason for what someone is doing. Dictionary examples: "I think I'll go home early." "I don't blame you - you look really tired." I don't blame her for not supporting the final budget agreement.

wouldn't dream of doing sth

used to say that you would not do something because you think it is wrong or silly. Dictionary example: I wouldn't dream of asking him for a loan.

at heart

used to say what someone is really like. Dictionary example: I'm just a kid at heart.

in effect

used to say what the real situation is. Dictionary example: This means, in effect, that the plan has been scrapped.

the crack of dawn

very early in the morning. Dictionary example: He gets up at the crack of dawn.

crystal clear

very easy to understand. Dictionary example: She made it crystal clear that she was in charge.

in demand

wanted or needed in large numbers. Dictionary example: Good teachers are always in demand.

fresh water

water from lakes, rivers, etc. that has no salt in it. Dictionary example: These fish live in fresh water.

eye contact

when people look directly at each other, for instance when they are talking to each other. Dictionary example: There was very little eye contact between them.

a display of affection/anger, etc.

when someone behaves in a way that shows they have a particular feeling or attitude. Dictionary example: The politicians shook hands in a display of unity for the media.

in perspective

when things are in perspective, you think about them in a sensible and realistic way, and understand how important or unimportant they really are. Dictionary examples: You must keep things in perspective - the overall situation isn't really that bad. When you see pictures of their suffering, it puts your own problems in perspective.

a dim memory/recollection, etc.

when you can remember something slightly, but not very well. Dictionary example: I have a dim memory of meeting her at a party.

an intimate knowledge/understanding of sth

when you know all of the facts about something or about how it works. Dictionary example: He has an intimate knowledge of the area.

in the face of sth

while having to deal with a difficult situation or problem Dictionary example: They left home in the face of strong opposition from their families.

arm in arm

with your arm gently supporting or being supported by someone else's arm. Dictionary example: They walked through the park, arm in arm.

with your bare hands

without using a weapon or tool. Dictionary example: He broke the log in two with his bare hands!

with your bare hands

without using any type of tool or weapon when doing something that requires a lot of strength. Dictionary example: He wrestled the lion to the ground with his bare hands.