Flatmates 2 by Paulo Accorsi Godoy

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Quizzes

Language Points

Episodes

Quizzes

Language Points

Episodes

Quizzes

Language Points

Episodes

Quizzes

Language Points

Episodes

Quizzes

Language Points

Episodes

Quizzes

Language Points

Se Episodes

ntence stress In spoken English, we use sentence stress to show our listeners which parts of our sentences are the most important (the parts that carry the most meaning). We usually stress content words, for example, main verbs, nounsand adjectives rather than articles or auxiliary verbs. We stress words by saying them slightly louder and more slowlythan the other words in the sentence.

Listen Helen: Have you seen the new film with Tom Cruise? The bold words (a main verb, an adjective and two nouns) are the ones Helen stresses. Sentence stress examples:

Listen What did he say to you in the garden?

Listen He's had a heart attack.

Listen How long are you going for?

Shifting stress If we want to contrast or show disagreement with what someone else has said, we use shifting stress. We do this by changing the usual patterns of sentence stress. So in this next example, John knows the conversation is about films and Tom Cruise so he doesn't have to stress those items. Instead he stresses the new or contrasting information:

Listen Helen: Have you seen that new film with Tom Cruise? John: No, but I saw the last one he was in. It was terrible! Here are some more examples from The Flatmates: Shifting stress examples:

Listen Not your dad, my dad.

Listen It's a one-way ticket I've booked.

Listen I'm going back to Poland for good. Vocabulary: commitment (n): being ready to give a lot of your time, attention or love to something or someone because you believe in the person or thing is right or important a one-way ticket: a ticket you use to go somewhere but which you can't use to come back for good: for ever

Must/have to

Both of these modal verbs are used to talk about obligation (things that you are required to do), but their meaning and use are slightly different. Must is often used to express obligations that the speaker feels are necessary. For example, when Paul says: 'you must try some' and 'we must do this again', he is expressing his own personal view about what is necessary. Have to is often used to express obligations which come from an external source: another person or organisation has made a rule that we are required to follow. So when Alice says: 'I have to work a night shift next weekend' she is talking about an obligation that has been given to her by her employer. must In the present tense, must takes the same form in all persons: I must you must he/she/it must we must you must they must Must is followed by a base verb (infinitive without 'to'). I must eat more fruit. It's good for me. You must go and see the new Will Smith movie. You'll love it! We must remember to thank them for the lovely gift. have to In the present tense, have to takes the same form in all persons, but it becomes has to in the 3rd person: I have to you have to he/she/it has to we have to you have to they have to Have to is followed by a base verb (infinitive without 'to'). I have to submit this assignment by 3pm tomorrow.

She has had three heart attacks, so now she has to have an operation. You have to use the back door in the evenings; the front door is locked at 5pm.

Vocabulary: dessert: sweet food such as cake, fruit or ice cream served at the end of a meal tempting (adj): attractive, inviting a night shift: a period of work which takes place overnight, for example, from 10pm to 6am I've really enjoyed your company: I've had fun spending time with you

Transitive and intransitive phrasal verbs

Phrasal verbs (also known as multi-word verbs) are verbs made of two or more words. The first word is a verb and the second word (known as a particle) is either a preposition or an adverb. Some phrasal verbs can have two particles. Phrasal verbs with one particle: let down, stand up, fall for, ask out, settle down Phrasal verbs with more than one particle: go out with, take care of

phrasal verbs with objects Phrasal verbs which must take an object are known as transitivephrasal verbs. In the examples below the object must go after theverb and particle. to go out with (somebody): to have a romantic relationship with somebody They had been going out with each other for 5 years when he asked her to marry him. Is she really going out with him? to fall for (somebody): to fall in love with He's not her usual type, but she fell for him after dating for a couple of months. He fell for her on the first date.

to cheat on (somebody): to secretly have a romantic or sexual relationship with somebody other than your boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife. She found out that he had been cheating on her for 3 years. He cheated on her with her best friend. separable phrasal verbs Sometimes the object of a transitive phrasal verb must be placedbetween the verb and particle. The following phrasal verbs are separable. to ask (somebody) out: to invite someone to something, such as dinner or the theatre, for a romantic date. He felt nervous about asking her out. In my country, women never ask men out. It's the men who make the first move. let (somebody) down: to disappoint somebody by failing to do what you were expected to do, or promised to do He promised to spend more time with her but he let her down. He kept on working late most evenings. If you let me down again I will leave you. stand (somebody) up: to fail to keep an appointment with someone, especially a romantic date I waited for her for half an hour before I realised she had stood me up. You shouldn't stand people up. If you can't keep a date you should call them. phrasal verbs without objects Some phrasal verbs do not take an object . These are calledintransitive phrasal verbs. The phrasal verbs below do not have objects. settle down: to begin living a stable and orderly life as an adult He settled down as a farmer with a family. I am too young to settle down. I want to travel around the world before I get married. break up: to end a romantic relationship or marriage Maria and Peter have broken up . They broke up after she saw him with another woman.

Vocabulary: to need some space: to want to spend more time alone because a relationship is too intense, or because you do not want a committed relationship to have a place in someone's heart: to be loved by someone

Linking Words

Linking words and phrases Linking words and phrases are used to show relationships between ideas. They can be used to join 2 or more sentences or clauses (a clause is a group of words which contains a subject and a verb). Linking words/phrases can be used to add ideas together, contrastthem, or show the reason for something.

Adding ideas and information Also This is used to give more information or ideas. It can be put at the beginning of a sentence, or between the subject and the verb. We are unable to repair this watch. Also, this is the fourth time this has happened. I want to be an astronaut. I also want to be a biologist. What should I do? Besides/Besides this/Besides that This is usually placed at the beginning of a sentence. It is used to make an additional point. Traffic congestion is a problem in my city. Besides this, the trains are very expensive. I can't afford to go to the concert. Besides, I don't really like classical music. As well as this/that This is very similar to besides/besides this/besides that . It is usually placed at the beginning of a sentence. It is used to make an additional point. My boss is the only other person who sells the watches. As well as that, he might blame me. We went to the park today. As well as that, we did some shopping. For information about 'and', 'as well as', 'in addition to', go to the Flatmates episode 25

Showing reasons As and since are used to introduce the reason for something. They are similar in meaning and use to 'because'. They can be placed at the

beginning of the sentence, or in the middle. As As the watch you have returned is not genuine, we are unable to repair it. We are unable to repair the watch you have returned as it is not genuine. Since Since the watch you have returned is not genuine, we are unable to repair it. We are unable to repair the watch you have returned since it is not genuine.

Showing results Consequently and as a consequence are linking words which linkreasons with results. They are common in formal writing. Consequently This is the fourth time that this has happened and, consequently, we can't accept further watches from you. This is the fourth time that this has happened. Consequently, we can't accept further watches from you. As a consequence This is the fourth time that this has happened and, as a consequence, we can't accept further watches from you. This is the fourth time that this has happened. As a consequence , we can't accept further watches from you. For information about ' so', 'because' and 'because of' go to the Flatmates episode 25

Contrasting ideas Despite and in spite of These are followed by nouns or gerunds (verb + 'ing'). They are notfollowed by clauses (subject + verb). Despite losing the match, the team were happy with their efforts. In spite of the lost match , the team were happy. (meaning: they lost the match but they were happy anyway) If you want to use a clause with despite and in spite of, you need to add 'the fact that '. Despite the fact that they lost the match, the team were still happy. In spite of the fact that they lost , the team were still happy. While and whereas are used to contrast two opposite ideas in onesentence . These words can be placed at the beginning of the sentence or in the middle. While London is exciting, it is much too busy. Life in the city is fast, whereas life in the countryside is slow. For information about ' but', 'however', and 'although' go to the Flatmates episode 25

Vocabulary:

genuine (adj) real and authentic - not a fake or forgery further watches more watches curious (adj) you want to know more about something

Modals - past possibilities, certainties and deductions

Modals - basics Common modals include: must, should, might, may, can, could, will,would. Modals affect the meaning of sentences. For example, some of them can be used to show possibility or probability. I meet my boss at ten o'clock every day. (a statement of fact) I might see my boss tonight. (the modal 'might' expresses a probability or possibility) John can't see his boss tonight. (the modal 'can't' means that it is not possible for John to see his boss tonight) Grammar note: With a present or future reference, the modal is followed by a base verb (the infinitive form of the main verb, without 'to'). I might see my boss tonight. He could be in London. She may arrive late. Modals - possibility, probability, guesses and deductions Modals can be used to show possibility, probability, a guess or adeduction (a guess which is based on evidence). For example, you are in your house and the doorbell rings (you can't see who is at the door). You say: That must be the postman. (This means you are certain it is the postman) That might be the postman. (You are not certain, but it is possible/probable) That may be the postman. (You are not certain, but it is possible/probable) That could be the postman

(You are not certain, but it is possible/probable) That can't be the postman. (You are certain that it is NOT the postman)

Modals and past events Must, might, may, could and can't are also used to talk about pastprobability and possibility, and to make guesses and deductionsabout things that happened in the past. For example, after a shopping trip you go to the train station to return home. You can't find your wallet. Past certainty I must have left it in the last shop. I don't remember putting it in my pocket. (This means you are certain about something that happened in the past) I can't have left it in the last shop. I remember putting it in my pocket. (This means you are certain about something that DIDN'T happen in the past) Past possibility/probability Someone might have stolen it. Somebody may have taken it. I could have dropped it. Grammar note: When modals are used to talk about past events, the modal isfollowed by the perfect infinitive, without 'to'. The perfect infinitive is made with 'have' + the past participle of themain verb. Here are some examples of modal verbs followed by perfect infinitives: must have left might have stolen may have taken could have dropped Remember, if you don't use a modal, then you are giving a fact, for example: I left it in the shop. Be careful: Modal verbs often have other different meanings. For example, 'could' can be used to show ability as well as possibility. Use the context to help you understand which meaning is being used.'Can' is NOT normally used to talk about the past: use 'could'.

Vocabulary: the paperwork: official documents, usually connected to a business transaction

Negative questions in conversations

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Negative questions at the end of sentences What's next? In everyday conversations, English speakers sometimes use negative questions at the end of sentences, especially when they are giving their opinions. The quiz Janet says: 'Fine jewellery looks so lovely on a man, Go back Tim says: '.it's important to have the latest model, This type of question helps to keep the conversation going by inviting the listener to agree with the speaker, or to give their The episode own opinion. Other questions which have this function are: Download this page . don't you think? . don't you think so? M . isn't that right? . wouldn't you agree? Replying to negative questions The speaker does not have to give a direct answer to this type of question, but usually responds to the When Janet says: 'Fine jewellery looks so lovely on a man, Tim's answer is: 'In that case, let me show you these cuff-links Sometimes the speaker will give a direct reply to the question. When Tim says: '.it's important to have the latest model, Janet's answer is: 'Not necessarily. I always say that style is more important than fashion.' Vocabulary: cuff the thicker material at the end of the sleeves of a shirt, near the hand cuff-links

small decorated objects which are used instead of buttons to fasten cuffs. Cuff links are usually worn by men a tie-clip a piece of jewellery that holds a man's tie in place style an elegant, luxurious and often expensive way of living and dressing

Past regrets - 'wish'

Past regrets - wish + past perfect Helen was out when Michal called. When she says 'I wish I'd been here when he called' she is expressing regret for a past event. She issad about something that happened, and she is sorry that the past was not different. To express regrets about past events, use: subject + wish(es) + past perfect (had + past participle). For example: last week you forgot to set your alarm. As a result, you slept late, you were late for school, you missed the start of the exam, and you failed the exam. You can express your regret for things that happened (or didn't happen) in the past by saying: I wish I hadn't forgotten to set my alarm. OR I wish I had remembered to set my alarm. I wish I hadn't slept late. I wish I hadn't been late for school. OR I wish I had been on time for school. I wish I hadn't missed the start of the exam. OR I wish I hadn't failed the exam. OR I wish I had passed the exam. Note: Even though the speaker is talking about a past event, the verb 'wish' is used in the present simple form, because s/he regrets itnow. I wish I had passed the exam. You wish you had passed the exam. S/he wishes s/he had passed the exam. We wish we had passed the exam. You wish you had passed the exam. They wish they had passed the exam.

Vocabulary: those two might be getting serious when a romantic relationship gets serious, the two people feel committed to each other and begin to think about the possibility of a long-term relationship. I'd be up for that I'd like to do that (especially when talking about a group arrangement)

Idioms with 'up' and 'down'

Idioms Idioms use language metaphorically. This means that the meaning of an idiom is not the same as the meanings of the individual words in the idiom. For example, if you 'go down memory lane', it means you think about the past (the metaphorical meaning), not that you walk down a street called 'Memory Lane' (the literal meaning). Idioms are fixed groups of words. This means that the wording of an idiom can not be changed. For example, you can say 'go down memory lane', but you can't say 'go down memory street'

Idioms with 'up' To be up: 'What's up?' means: 'What's the matter or problem?' This is often used when someone is upset or behaving strangely. Example: What's up with Helen at the moment? She seems really upset. This idiom is also used as an informal greeting. Example: Hi, David. What's up man?' 'Just the usual. How're you doing? To be up someone's street: to be ideal for someone, or be related to something which someone knows a lot about. Example: Ask Sarah that question about football. It's right up her street: she's been a fan for ages. To be up to my/the ears: to be really busy or occupied with something, so that you have little free time. Example: Tim can't help her because he is up to his ears in/with work.

To be on the up and up: to be getting increasingly successful. Example: His life has been on the up and up since he published his first book. Now, he's making a film in Hollywood. To be up-to-the-minute: to be the most recent or latest; to be very fashionable. Example: These are up-to-the-minute statistics, and they show that the rush hour starts at 4.30, not 5.

Idioms with 'down' To be down in the dumps: to be sad or miserable. This idiom refers to an old use of the word â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dumps', which was used to refer to a sad piece of music. Example: Helen has been down in the dumps since Michal returned to Poland. To be/look down in the mouth: to be or look sad and unhappy. To be down in the mouth means that someone's expression is sad; they are definitely not smiling. Example: Helen looks really down in the mouth at the moment, doesn't she? -Yes, she does. I think she's missing Michal. To be down-to-earth: to be realistic or practical; to not be a dream. In some ways, this idiom is the opposite of 'to have your head in the clouds' (to be unrealistic). Example: My sister's very down-to-earth. She always buys me useful presents, like kettles and tools. She never buys me anything silly and fun. To be/look down at heel: to be or look untidy and uncared for. This is an idiomatic reference to the condition of someone's shoes, when they are very worn and need replacing or repairing. Example: He seemed well-educated, but looked so down at heel. His clothes were scruffy and he needed a haircut. To be down on one's uppers: to be very poor. This is another idiomatic reference to the condition of someone's shoes. It means that their shoes have lost the sole and heel, only the top (upper) part of the shoe remains. Example: David's really down on his uppers at the moment. He lost his job, and he can't pay the rent for his house anymore. To go down memory lane: to look back into the past, in a nostalgic and warm way. Example: I love school reunions. They're a lovely chance to go down memory lane.

Vocabulary: a vet

a shortened version of 'a veterinary surgeon' (an animal doctor) blimey an expression of surprise or annoyance, used mainly in British English a bloke an informal term for 'a man'

Past habits and repeated actions 'would'

'Would' - repeated actions and habits in the past In this episode of The Flatmates, the guide uses 'would' plus a base verb (infinitive without 'to') to talk about repeated actions and habits in the past. '.paintings would often be commissioned by the wealthy, and, theywould be hung in the home.' The use of 'would' means that these things happened many times in the past. This idea can also be expressed by using the past simple, so the above sentence could be rewritten as: '.paintings were often commissioned by the wealthy, and, they werehung in the home.' If a past action happened only once, 'would' can not be used. This painting would be commissioned in 1856 - wrong. This painting was commissioned in 1856 - right.

'Would' and 'used to' - past repeated actions, habits and states 'would' + base verb has a very similar meaning to 'used to' - the above example could be rewritten as: '.paintings used to be commissioned by the wealthy and, they used to be hung in the home.' with no real change in meaning. However, there is an important difference between 'would' and 'used to'. 'Used to' can be used to talk about past states as well as past repeated actions and habits, but 'would' is only used to talk about past habits. 'Would' is not used to talk about past states. When I was younger, I used to paint for 2 hours every day - correct this is a past repeated action or habit, so 'used to' is acceptable here. When I was younger, I would paint for 2 hours every day - correct - this is a past repeated action or habit, so 'used to' is acceptable here. I used to be a painter - correct - this is a past state - 'used to' is

acceptable here. I would be a painter - wrong - this is a past state - 'would' is not acceptable here. If a past action happened only once, 'used to' can not be used. This painting used to be commissioned in 1856 - wrong. This painting was commissioned in 1856 - right.

Past possibilities / probabilities - 'would have' + past participle In this episode of The Flatmates, Alice and the guide use 'would have' with a past participle to talk about past possibilities or probabilities . Alice asks: How long would it have taken to paint? The guide replies: Well, a painting like this would probably have taken up to a year to complete. For more information about 'would' for past possibilities and probabilities, see The Flatmates episode 65:

Vocabulary: by all means (idiom): of course, certainly commission: to give somebody the job of making a piece of art, such as a painting, poem or sculpture the wealthy: rich people in general status: the social position of a person in relation to others admire: to have or show great appreciation, respect or approval for something

Past continuous and past simple interrupted activities

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Past continuous and past simple - interrupted activities What's next? English speakers often use the past simple and past continuous together to say that something happened in the middle of something else. In this The quiz

episode of The Flatmates, Alice says: Go back '.when I arrived at the restaurant, phone.' This means that Paul started talking on the phone at the restaurant, and he was still talking when she entered the The episode restaurant. The order of the clauses is not important here. It is possible to change Download this page the clause order without changing the meaning of the sentence. '. he was talking to somebody on the phone when restaurant.' More on this topic 'When', 'while' and 'as' 'when', 'while' and 'as' are important time markers. They can be used with the past simple or the past continuous part of the sentence. '.when I arrived at the restaurant, he was talking to somebody on the phone.' '.he was talking to somebody on the phone restaurant. ' 'As I was walking down the street, I met my old teacher.' 'I met my old teacher as I was walking 'While the teacher was talking, two of the students fell asleep.' 'Two of the students fell asleep while the teacher was talking Past simple The past simple is usually used when things happen one after another. She got up, had a shower, got dressed work.' Stative verbs Some verbs are not normally used in the continuous tense. These are often verbs associated with thoughts and feelings such as: know, understand, want, think, feel, like, love, smell, taste, hear. In this example, 'think' means 'to have an opinion': I am thinking that this book is very expensive - wrong I think that this book is very expensive - right However, if the verb describes an action used. In this example, 'think' refers to an activity: My mum called just when I was thinking For more information about stative verbs (also known as state verbs) see The Flatmates episode 4 Vocabulary

dreadful: terrible, awful to eavesdrop: to listen to another person's conversation without them knowing you are listening

Somebody, anybody, nobody, everybody

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Every, some, any, no 'Every', 'some', 'any' and 'no' can be used with 'one', 'body' and'thing' to form compound pronouns, such as everyone, somebody,anything and nothing 'Every', 'some', 'any' and 'no' can also be used with adverbs such as everywhere, somewhere

What's next?

The quiz

Go back Pronouns such as somebody, nothing asingular verb, even though they may seem to refer to more than one thing. Don't touch that computer: somebody is Don't worry. Nothing has happened. Is everything ready for the party? Everybody has arrived. However, after everyone/everybody though the verb is singular. Everyone has to take their shoes off before they come in. Could everybody please put their Everybody enjoyed themselves Somebody, someone, something, somewhere These words refer to a person, thing or place, without identifyingwhich person, thing or place. somebody / someone: an unidentified person something: an unidentified thing somewhere: an unidentified place Alice says 'there's something I want to ask you.' She is saying that she has a question, but she hasn't yet identified the topic of the

The episode Download this page More on this topic

question. When she says: 'There's somebody else a positive statement, followed by a question tag. Alice is saying that she believes that Paul is seeing another woman, but she doesn't know who. More examples: Somebody called yesterday, but I don't know who it was. He had something to eat before he went home. Have you seen my phone? I put it down find it. Anybody, anyone, anything, anywhere These words are used in questions to a person, thing or place, without identifying place. anybody / anyone: an unidentified person anything: an unidentified thing anywhere: an unidentified place Are you seeing anybody else? I've just moved to a new town, and I don't know I haven't had anything to eat since I arrived. 'any-' words are also used to express 'You can park anywhere' = 'if you need these spaces.' 'It's easy to find. Ask anyone' = 'if everybody knows where it is.' Nobody, no-one, nothing, nowhere These words are used in positive sentences, but they have negative meanings: they refer to an absence of people, things or place. No-one is written with a hyphen between the two 'o's. Nobody knows where it is. No-one came to the party. He says he knows nothing about the crime. They are homeless. They have nowhere Everybody, everyone, everything, everywhere These words are used to refer to all places.Everybody and everyone have the same meaning. Everybody likes chocolate. Everything closes at the end of the holiday season. We need to tidy up. There's rubbish Vocabulary

to confess: to tell somebody that you have done something that you think is bad, or that you feel guilty about to be seeing somebody: to be having a romantic relationship what's going on? what's happening?

Verbs which take adjectives look, feel, seem, sound

Verbs, adverbs and adjectives A verb is a word which describes an action - for example, walk,work, drive. Adverbs are words which describe how the actions described by verbs are performed. He walked slowly - (How did he walk? Slowly.) She worked hard - (How did she work? Hard.) He drives dangerously - (How does he drive? Dangerously.) Some verbs can be used with adjectives, to give more information about the subject of the verb. These verbs function as a link between the adjective and a particular aspect of the subject. Helen says: 'It's a gorgeous dress, Alice, but the other one seemed nicer.' ('nice' refers to 'the dress') Alice replies: 'It is lovely, isn't it? But you're right, the blue dress looks better.' ('better' refers to 'the dress'; 'look' refers to an aspect of the dress here, the way it looks) Helen says: 'And after that I expect we'll all be feeling peckish...' ('peckish' refers to 'we'; 'feel' refers to an aspect of 'we'. In other words, we don'tlook peckish, we don't sound peckish, we feel peckish.)

Verbs of perception, sense and change-of-state with adjectives Verbs which can be used with adjectives in this way are called link verbs. They are also known as copula verbs. They can be divided into groups: Verbs of perception: seem, appear Your plan seems realistic. He appears older than he really is. Verbs of sense: look, feel, taste, smell, sound

The blue dress looks better. This fabric feels lovely. I didn't enjoy the food. It tasted horrible. These flowers smell beautiful. That sound system sounds expensive. Change-of-state verbs: become, grow, get, go, turn She became very angry when she saw what they had done. As night fell the air grew cold. The sun got hotter and hotter. His face went white with shock when he heard the news. As I get older, my hair is starting to turn grey. More about verbs, adverbs and adjectives Link/copula verbs take adjectives. They can also function as normal verbs which take adverbs. She looked angry (adjective) = she had an angry expression She looked angrily (adverb) at her husband. Here, 'looked' is a deliberate action. The cake tasted beautiful (adjective) = the cake had a beautiful taste. She quickly (adverb) tasted the cake. Here, 'tasted' is a deliberate action. Vocabulary: gorgeous (adj): lovely, beautiful peckish (adj): a little bit hungry a bite to eat: a snack or light meal here we go: this phrase is used to show mild annoyance at something happening repeatedly. In this case, Tim is expressing mild frustration at Helen and Alice's constant clothes shopping.

Present continuous for future arrangements

English speakers often use the present continuous tense (subject + 'be' = verb-ing) to talk about future arrangements. A future arrangement is a plan that you have decided and organised with another person. I'm spending Christmas and New Year with my Mum and Dad. We're meeting Susan at 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon. Sometimes the arrangement is between a person and a group of people, or an organisation or company: I'm working over the New Year. (this arrangement is between Alice and her employer) They are flying to New York tomorrow morning. (they have made this arrangement with the airline) It is not always necessary to state who the arrangement is with. For example, Tim says: So what are we all doing at Christmas? I'm popping over to Poland for a few days. I'm looking forward to a nice cosy Christmas. Alice and Helen understand that Tim is talking about arrangements, even though he does not say who the arrangements are with.

Present continuous for things which you are about to start doing English speakers often use the present continuous tense to talk about things they are about to start doing. This is especially common with verbs of movement, such as go, come, leave etc. I'm going to bed now - goodnight. Will you help me finish the housework? - Sorry, I can't: I'm leaving for work now. Time expressions Time expressions are often (but not always) used when present continuous is used to talk about future arrangements. I'm working over the New Year. They are flying to New York tomorrow morning. So what are we all doing at Christmas? I'm popping over to Poland for a few days. I'm going to bed now. Vocabulary: to pop over: to visit briefly cosy (adj): warm and comfortable

fancy joining me?: would you like to join me? over the New Year: for a period of time around New Year to have a chinwag: to have a chat the main event: the most important occasion (here, Christmas day)

The future in the past

Going to: future plans Speakers of English use to be + 'going to' + base verb (without 'to') to talk about plans for the future. I'm going to visit my uncle in Thailand next Spring. I'm going to wash the dishes. I'm going to Poland for Christmas. Time expressions can be used if the speaker wants to say when the action will happen. I'm going to visit my uncle in Thailand next Spring. But it is not always necessary to use a time expression: 'going to' refers to an unspecified time in the future. I'm going to wash the dishes. 'Going to go' can be shortened to 'going'. I'm going to Poland for Christmas. = 'I'm going to go to Poland for Christmas.' Was going to: the future in the past Sometimes we make plans for the future, but the plans don't actually happen. Speakers of English use was/were + 'going to' + base verb(without 'to') to look back at the plans we made but didn't do. I was going to visit my uncle in Thailand last Spring, but I couldn't afford a ticket. I was going to wash the dishes, but there wasn't enough time. I was going to go to Poland for Christmas, but I stayed in France. Time expressions can be used if the speaker wants to say when the action should have happened. I was going to visit my uncle in Thailand last Spring.

But it is not always necessary to use a time expression. I was going to wash the dishes. I was going to meet a gorgeous man. He was going to be funny, and rich too. When the subject of the sentence is I/he/she/it, use 'was'. I was going to meet a gorgeous man. He was going to be funny, and rich too. When the subject of the sentence is you/we/they, use 'were'. We were going to get married.

Was/were going to: pronunciation In spoken English, the phrase 'going to' can be pronounced word by word, especially when speaking slowly, or in formal situations. However, in faster speech (also known as connected speech), or in less formal situations, 'going to' is often pronounced as 'gunna'

In addition, the pronunciation of 'was' becomes 'wuz' with 'buzz') and 'were' becomes 'wuh'

(rhymes with 'the')

Alice uses this informal pronunciation style when she says: 'I wuz gunna meet a gorgeous man Listen Now listen to Alice using more formal pronunciation. 'I was going to meet a gorgeous man.'

Listen

'He wuz gunna be funny.' Listen 'He was going to be funny.'

Listen

'.we wuh gunna get married and everything.' Listen 'we were going to get married and everything'

(rhymes

Listen For more information about pronunciation in connected speech, see the BBC Learning English pronunciation webpage

Vocabulary: resolutions: promises you make to yourself about how you are going to improve your life by changing your behaviour; people often make resolutions at New Year to have high hopes: to feel very positive and optimistic about the future of something he had a skeleton in his closet: he had a secret about something bad that happened in the past that's that: the situation is completed and can not be changed

Adverbs of manner

Adverbs of manner Adverbs of manner tell us how something happens. In this episode of The Flatmates, Paul says: '...that ended very abruptly...'. If we ask: how did it end? - The answer is 'abruptly'. Paul also says: '...she calmly announced that she had fallen in love with someone else.' If we ask: how did she announce it? - The answer is 'calmly'. Other examples: He swims fast. How does he swim? - fast. She sings beautifully. How does she sing? - beautifully. I opened the door wide. How did I open the door? - wide. She quickly finished her dinner. How did she finish? - quickly. Adverbs of manner - position

Adverbs of manner are usually placed after the main verb. He swims fast. She sings beautifully. It is possible to place the adverb before the verb. This places emphasis on the adverb. She calmly announced that she had fallen in love with someone else. She quickly finished her dinner. But some adverbs are always placed after the verb. These adverbs are: well, badly, hard, fast. The team well played. - WRONG The team played well. - RIGHT He performed badly. The students tried hard. (note: hard is an irregular adverb - don't sayhardly) The dogs ran fast. (note: fast is an irregular adverb - don't say fastly)

Adverbs of manner - verbs with objects If the verb has an object, the adverb of manner is usually placedafter the object, not between the verb and object. I opened wide the door. - WRONG I opened the door wide. - RIGHT He ate the chocolate cake greedily. She typed the email hurriedly. However, it is still possible to place the adverb before the verb, to emphasise the adverb. He greedily ate the chocolate cake. She hurriedly typed the email.

Adverbs of manner - beginning position Some writers put an adverb of manner at the beginning of a sentence, to catch the reader's attention and make him/her curious: Slowly, carefully, she opened the box. This use of adverb position makes the reader want to find out more. What is in the box? Why did she open it slowly and carefully? Adverbs of manner - more than one verb When there is more than one verb in a clause, the position of the adverb is very important. If it is placed with the verb, it modifies the action described by the verb. If it is placed at the end of the clause, it describes the manner of the whole action described in the clause. Compare: She slowly decided to leave the party. = slowly modifies decided. She decided to leave the party slowly. = slowly modifies leave the party. The teacher quietly asked the children to finish their game.

= quietlymodifies asked. The teacher asked the children to finish their game quietly. = quietlymodifies finish (their game). Adverb modifiers - a bit, quite, most, fairly, very, extremely You can give more information about most adverbs of manner by using a word such as: a bit quite most fairly really very extremely These words are always placed before the adverb. Very carefully, she carried the baby upstairs. She carried the baby upstairs very carefully. She very carefully carried the baby upstairs. He finished his homework really quickly. Common adverbs of manner

angrily

badly

beautifully

calmingly

carefully

cautiously

cleverly

dangerously

eagerly

excitedly

foolishly

fast

furiously

greedily

happily

hard

hurriedly

kindly

nervously

politely

quickly

quietly

secretly

silently

slowly

softly

stupidly

unhappily

well

wickedly

willingly

wisely

Vocabulary hang up (v) to end a telephone call by deliberately breaking the connection end of story when English speakers use this informal phrase, they mean that there is no reason to continue discussing something - there's no more to be said it's over the relationship is finished abruptly (adv) suddenly, without warning announced said something formally, publicly or officially. Paul uses the verb 'announce' to show that his wife did not discuss their separation with him moved out

took all his belongings and left his home to go and live somewhere else

Time expressions

Background There are a great variety of expressions that are used to refer to time: a selection is presented here. Most of them function asadverbials or prepositional phrases. For more information about 'adverbials', go to Grammar and Vocabulary: Learn It For more information about prepositions of time, go to: The Flatmates: Episode 44 Referring to the past a short time ago: this means something was recent. Example: I've already heard the news. She told me a short time ago. the other day: this means that something was recent, without saying exactly which day. Example: I went shopping the other day. ages and ages ago: this means something was not recent; it happened a long time ago. Example: I've known about it for a very long time. She told me ages and ages ago. many moons ago : this means something was not recent; it happened a long time ago. Example: Many moons ago, he told me the story of his life.

Referring to the present for the time being: at the moment, until something changes. Example: For the time being, I'm catching the bus to work, but I hope to get a

bicycle soon. these days: the current period of time. NOTE: we don't usually say 'in these days'. Example: These days I'm happy at work, but there were times in the past when I was unhappy. in this day and age: the present era; the current period of time in history. Example: In this day and age it is normal for women to be senior managers, but it wasn't always like that.

Very soon or immediately as soon as possible: this is often a polite way to ask someone to do something soon. Example: Could you please return the books to me as soon as possible? straight away: immediately. Example: Let's call him straight away. in a minute or two / in a second or two: shortly; very soon. It is common to be a little vague when talking about time, so we use 'or two'. Example: Sorry to keep you waiting. I'll be with you in a minute or two. Referring to the future by the end of the month: something will happen before this current month finishes. Example: The new restaurant will be open by the end of the month. this time next year: about one year from now. Example: This time next year, we'll be millionaires! in the not too distant future: fairly soon. Example: I'll be seeing my sister in the not too distant future. Duration (a length of time) Not much longer / not any more / not any longer: these all mean that a period of time for something needs to end soon. Example: I can't wait any longer, I'll have to leave in a minute or two. For the foreseeable future: a period of time from now into the future, a future that is near enough to be reasonably sure what will happen. Example: I'm going to continue working here for the foreseeable future. I have

no plans to change my career and my school is happy with my work. For as long as anyone can remember: this means that no-one can remember a time when this thing did not exist or happen. This expression is not always used literally: it simply means a period of time that started a long time ago. Example: For as long as anyone can remember, fish and chips has been the national food of Britain.

Vocabulary fair enough ok, fine, no problem twitchy nervous, worried, uncomfortable colleague a person who works with you, or at the same place as you advert short for 'advertisement'

Small ads vocabulary accommodation

Background Small ads are short advertisements which are found in local and national newspapers, and sometimes on notice boards in shops, colleges etc. In newspaper and magazine adverts, each word and/or letter has to be paid for, so to make them cheaper, people often use short forms and abbreviations, and some non-essential words are not used. This worksheet will focus on the language used to advertise accommodation. People

Advertisers often state what type of person they are looking for. They generally do this by using adjectives, such as clean, quiet, etc. but nouns and compound nouns may be used too. professional / prof. (adj/n) somebody who has a job. Examples: Rooms available: professionals only. Prof. male required for shared house. mature (adj) this word is used to describe an older, quieter, more responsible person. Example: Mature lady wanted for single room. easy-going (adj) friendly and relaxed. Example: Easy-going guy wanted for student house. n/s (adj/n) non-smoker Example: n/s prof. lady wanted for single room. landlord / landlady (n) The person who owns the accommodation. A landlord is male, a landlady is female. tenant (n) The person who pays rent to live in the accommodation. lodger (n) A person who lives with his / her landlord. mixed (adj) This means that both men and women are living in the accommodation.

Types of accommodation flatshare / houseshare (n) This refers to the situation of sharing a house or flat with people who are not your family. Example: Alice says: 'bright, sunny room in mixed flatshare.' bedsit (n) A type of accommodation where you live and sleep in the same room. The bathroom and kitchen may be shared with other people who live in the same building. Example: Bedsit to let: suit student or young professional. self-contained (adj) Self-contained accommodation means that the kitchen, bathroom and other rooms are not shared with anyone else, and the accommodation has its own door which is not used by anyone else. Example: Self-contained single flat to let. studio flat /apartment (n) A flat or apartment which does not have a separate bedroom and/or kitchen, but it has its own bathroom. Example: Clean, quiet studio flat. Reasonable rent.

(fully) furnished / part furnished / unfurnished (adj) Advertisers often say how much furniture is provided. fully furnished = all the necessary furniture is provided. part furnished = some of the necessary furniture is provided: the tenant might have to buy some additional furniture. unfurnished = no furniture is provided. single room / double room A single room is suitable for one person; a double room is suitable for two people. Example: Single room avail. end March. bed Bedroom. Example: 3 bed flat avail. Dec. Reasonable rent. all mod cons 'mod cons' means 'modern conveniences' - things like a telephone, washing machine, dishwasher etc. Example: 2 bed flat avail. Dec. Reasonable rent. close to all amenities amenities are shops and services that people like to have close to their houses - such as schools, banks, doctors, stations etc. Example: 3 bed house avail. Dec. suit family. 5 mins from schools & amenities.

Money reasonable rent: Advertisers do not always write the exact cost of the accommodation in the advertisement. 'Reasonable' usually means that the rent is not too expensive, or that it is the same as the rent for other similar accommodation in the same area. negotiable / negot. This means that the landlord is willing to talk about the rent and agree on a price that is acceptable to both the landlord and the tenant. pcm per calendar month. Sometimes rent has to be paid every 4 weeks, but pcm means that the rent is payable on the same date each month, often the 1st. Example: Bedsit to let. £500 pcm. incl. Inclusive - the rent includes the cost of gas, electricity etc. Example: Wanted: young prof. for studio flat. Rent £200 pcm incl. deposit / dep. (n) This is an amount of money which the tenant pays to the landlord / landlady when s/he moves in to the accommodation. The landlord / landlady gives the money back to the tenant when s/he moves out. Example: 3-bed flat avail. end Dec / beg. Jan. £500 pcm + £500 dep. Other words and abbreviations

avail. Available end At the end of beg. At the beginning of to let Available for rent suit Suitable for (a particular type of person) Example: To let: 2 bed flat. avail. beg. Jan. Suit n/s prof. Vocabulary: from the top repeat from the beginning mixed both men and women are living in the same house close to all amenities amenities are shops and services that people like to have close to their houses - such as schools, banks, doctors, stations etc. allergy an unusual sensitiveness of the body which causes certain people to be affected in a bad way by something usually harmless all mod cons 'mod cons' means 'modern conveniences' - things like a telephone, washing machine, dishwasher etc. small ads short advertisements which are found in local and national newspapers, or on notice boards in shops, colleges etc. go with choose, decide The Gazette; The Courier These are typical names for newspapers.

Describing people 3

Character adjectives - usually positive charming strong personal attractiveness, with very pleasing behaviour and speech; delightful Everything about him was attractive, but his smile was especiallycharming. clean-cut neat, tidy, clean and smart in appearance He's very clean-cut. His clothes are always clean and neatly ironed, he shaves every morning and his hair is always combed. cultured well-educated in and having a high appreciation of fine art, music, literature etc. She's very cultured - she goes to the opera at least once a month and she knows all of Shakespeare's plays. considerate behaving in a way that shows caring for other people's feelings, circumstances, etc. When he comes home late at night, he's always very considerate of the sleeping neighbours and doesn't make any noise. open-minded being receptive to new ideas, experiences or arguments If you want to enjoy foreign travel, it's best to be open-minded. respectable behaving in a proper and socially acceptable way Everybody thought that he was a respectable family man, but secretly he was a gambler and a drunk. tolerant accepting of the beliefs, practices, or behaviour of other people, even if it is new, challenging or different She is very tolerant with the children. She doesn't get angry with them, even though they are a little bit naughty sometimes. Character adjectives - usually negative creepy unpleasant, annoying, weird, a little bit scary, makes you feel uncomfortable Do you know that creepy guy who works in our office? He's always

staring at me, and sometimes when I turn round, he's standing right next to me, but I never hear anything - he's just suddenly there! hypocritical pretending to have beliefs or principles that you do not actually possess, or acting against the beliefs which you say you have My brother told me to stop smoking, but he smokes 20 a day himself how hypocritical! insincere not honest or genuine in the expression of feelings He wasn't a real gentleman. His false charm and cold smile made him seem very insincere. malicious often doing bad things in order to hurt people It's just his determination and wanting to win and sometimes he gets a bit over-excited, but he isn't at all malicious. materialistic much more concerned with material things than with spiritual, intellectual, or cultural values Those girls are greedy and materialistic: they measure their success in terms of how many pairs of shoes and designer handbags they have. mercenary motivated by a desire for money He's so mercenary - he doesn't care what he has to do at work, as long as the pay is good. ruthless without pity or mercy He was so ruthless in his criticism of their performance that most of them started to cry. snobbish a person who admires people of high rank or social class, and dislikes people in a lower class than him/herself He's so snobbish. He was very friendly towards Jane until he found out her dad was a taxi driver. Now he hardly speaks to her. spiteful wanting to do something bad to someone, usually because of a belief that they have done something bad to you She's so spiteful. When she saw that I had got the last piece of cake, she pushed me, to make me drop it. stubborn resistant to change, especially of opinions and ideas, even if others are negatively affected Izzy is so stubborn. Everybody could see she was tired, but she wouldn't let anybody else help her.

Vocabulary commute to travel regularly over some distance, for example, suburb into a city and back, often for work respectable behaves in a proper and socially acceptable way clean-cut neat, tidy, clean and smart in appearance creepy

unpleasant, annoying, weird, a little bit scary, makes you feel uncomfortable

Idioms: Life and living

Idioms - background Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. If you 'let your hair down', it means you relax and enjoy yourself, not that you untie your hair and let it fall. Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say 'He calls a spade a spade' to mean that he's very clear and direct, but you can't say 'He calls a hammer a hammer.' How life is going:

To be stuck in a rut: to live or work in a situation that never changes, so you feel bored. A rut is a deep narrow track left in soft ground by a wheel, so you are stuck in something which only goes in one direction and which you cannot escape. "Working for this supermarket is not good for me. I'm just stuck in a rut, stacking the same shelves with the same products every day. I wish I could do something different." To turn over a new leaf: to make a fresh start; to change your life in a positive way, perhaps to stop a bad habit or to make a positive change to your character. 'New leaf' refers to a blank page in a book, so you turn over a new leaf to start again. "Since his arrest for vandalism, little Johnny has turned over a new leaf. I even saw him picking up litter the other day." To be on an even keel: for things to be steady and stable, without any sudden changes. The 'keel' refers to the bottom of a ship. So, if it is even, the ship is stable. "After all my problems last year with the divorce and losing my job,I'm on a much more even keel now. I've got a new job and I've found a nice place to rent." How you are living life:

To let your hair down: to relax and enjoy yourself, when normally you don't relax much. A woman may tie her hair up on her head: if she lets it down she releases it and it hangs free. In the same way, if you relax, you release yourself and behave more freely. "I haven't been out to a party for ages - I've been too busy with my new job. So, tonight I'm going to let my hair down and enjoy myself!" To burn the candle at both ends: to exhaust yourself by overworking or doing too much of one (or more than one) activity. If you burn a candle at both ends, it is soon finished. "You can't keep burning the candle at both ends . You can't do that job and also work on the computer every night. You need to relax properly." To burn the midnight oil: to stay awake late at night, especially to study or work. Before electricity, lamps were fuelled by oil, so if you stayed up late you were burning oil at midnight. "There's only one week until the exams, and I haven't done any revision yet. I'm going to have to burn the midnight oil if I want to pass the exams." To paint the town red: to have a lively, enjoyable night out, often to celebrate something. "I'm going to paint the town red tonight. I passed all my exams with A grades! So, I think we'll go to my favourite restaurant, then a couple of bars and then let's go clubbing!" How you talk about life: To call a spade a spade: to describe something as it exactly is; to avoid euphemisms, even if doing this might upset or offend people. "If I don't like a meal I always tell the cook. I don't say that the flavour could have been a little stronger. I tell them it was tasteless. I call a spade a spade and I don't care what people think." To beat around the bush: to avoid or delay talking about something embarrassing or unpleasant. "I know it's difficult but don't beat around the bush. Tell them directly and firmly that they are being sacked because their work is not good enough. It'll be worse if you take a long time to tell them, and if the message isn't clear." To cut to the chase: to immediately start dealing with the important part of something. This idiom comes from the movies. If you cut to the chase, you go to the exciting part of the film, when the good guys are chasing the bad guys. You ignore the boring conversational scenes. "Ok, I'm going to cut to the chase. This restaurant is losing money for one reason only. And that reason is the cooking - it's awful." To not pull any punches: to show your disapproval or criticism clearly, without trying to hide anything or weaken the strength of the criticism. If a boxer pulls a punch, he/she doesn't hit with his/her full possible force. "Well, the new restaurant manager didn't pull any punches. He just told us the food was disgusting and we have to improve." Vocabulary

moping / moping around staying at home being miserable and inactive because you are unhappy telly television (informal)

Idioms with 'ice'

to skate on thin ice: To take a big risk. This verb is often used in the continuous form. He's having a secret relationship with a married woman: I've told him that he's skating on thin ice, but he won't listen to me. to be on thin ice: This has the same meaning as to skate on thin ice- to take a big risk. They knew that publishing the article meant that they were on thin ice. to break the ice: To make people who have not met before feel more relaxed and comfortable with each other. Experienced teachers usually start a new class with a game to break the ice.

an ice-breaker: An activity which helps people who have not met before to feel more relaxed and comfortable with each other. As an ice-breaker, we wrote an interesting fact about ourselves on a piece of paper. The teacher read out all the facts, and we had to guess which person had written which fact. to cut no ice with someone: To fail to have an influence on someone's beliefs or actions. She made a lot of excuses for her bad behaviour, but they cut no ice with me. to put something on ice: to ice something: to be on ice: These idioms have the same meaning: to stop doing something temporarily, with a plan to finish or complete it later. The plans for the new building have been put on ice until next year. The plans for the new building have been iced until next year. The plans for the new building are on ice until next year. Vocabulary dragging me out making me go out with you even though I didn't really want to divorce (n) a formal, legal separation of husband and wife skating on very thin ice (idiom) taking a big risk

Binomials: peace and quiet

Background: There are many phrases in English that use two words connected with 'and'. For example, peace and quiet, fish and chips. These expressions are known as binomials. In these phrases the word order is usually fixed; we say 'peace and quiet', we don't say 'quiet and peace'. The following binomials are all noun phrases, although there are also many adjective and verb phrases that are binomials. Noun and noun:

Many binomials combine words which are similar or closely connected in meaning: peace and quiet: freedom from noise and disturbance He sent his children to the park so that he could have some peace and quiet. life and times: the story of someone's life, especially in its social context I'm reading a book about the life and times of Winston Churchill. It's fascinating. law and order: the maintenance of a good society because people follow the laws and criminals are caught and punished. After the war there was a serious breakdown in law and order. It has taken a long time for the police to gain control of the situation. Other binomials refer to things that are closely or frequently connected: fish and chips: the popular and traditional take-away food in Britain I can't be bothered to cook, I'll go and get some fish and chips. salt and vinegar: the condiments or flavourings that are often had with chips Do you want salt and vinegar on your chips? pros and cons: the advantages and disadvantages of something; the things for and against something. What are the pros and cons of capital punishment?

Rhyme and alliteration: Many binomials combine words that rhyme: odds and sods: a collection of small and unimportant things. Odds and ends has the same meaning. I've done all the important building work; I've just got the odds and sods left, you know, like fitting the door handles. hustle and bustle: a lot of noise and activity I love the hustle and bustle of city life. I'd get bored in the countryside. Many binomials use alliteration. This is when the sounds at the beginning of the words are similar. rest and relaxation: a time of inactivity, for example when on holiday The doctor said I need some rest and relaxation; I've been working too hard. trials and tribulations: the difficult challenges that we face in life Remember, while marriage is a wonderful thing, it also has its owntrials and tribulations, which you both have to survive.

Grammar words: Many binomials combine grammar words such as prepositions and conjunctions. ups and downs: the good and bad times in life The ups and downs of life are similar all over the world, but people react differently to them. ins and outs: the details and fine points of something. I don't know all the ins and outs, but it seems the Prime Minister has made a serious mistake. down and out: a homeless and jobless person. This is also often used

as an adjective. Did you see the poor down and out sleeping in the park? Should we tell the police about him?' ifs and buts: the reasons why someone doesn't want to do something; their objections Whenever we try to change the work routines, the workers have so many ifs and buts that we never manage to change anything.

Abbreviations Many common binomials are referred to by an abbreviation of the initial letters. R and R: rest and relaxation I'm going on a 2 week beach holiday. I really need some R and R. P and P: postage and packing - usually seen when you buy something that needs delivery. You know you want to buy that bicycle over the Internet? Did you check that the price includes P and P? R and D: research and development - usually a department in an industrial business. Sony has a very strong R and D division: that's why they keep coming up with new products.

Vocabulary: Hello stranger an informal greeting used when we meet a friend after a long time of not seeing them It's been ages we haven't seen each other for a very long time (it's been ages since we last met.) smashing excellent, great, wonderful right as rain feeling completely healthy and well rowdy noisy and disturbing

Vague language

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Background:

quizzes

We use vague language when we do not want to be (or cannot be) exact, accurate and precise. What's next? Talking about similarities: There are some phrases that are useful when we want to say that The quiz something is similar to something else, but it is not exactly the same. We often use these phrases because we can't find the exact word that Go back we need. kind of and sort of: We can use these phrases before nouns and adjectives: The episode A paramedic is a kind of doctor, or perhaps it is not sure, but they help injured people. I'm kind of happy that school has finished, but I'll miss my friends. Download this page We can also use kind of and sort of Australian Rules Football is kind of like New Zealand is sort of similar to Britain.

More on this topic

-ish: We can add 'ish' to adjectives and numbers to mean 'approximately'. How old is he? I'm not sure, perhaps And he's got blueish eyes, or are they What's the word? All of the following words can be used to represent a noun when we do not know the real word or when we can't remember it. a whatsit a thingummy

a whatsitcalled a thingummyjig

You need one of those... oh, you know, you need that bottle. You mean a corkscrew? That's it! Thingummy can be used to mean someone's name. Have you seen, erm, thingummy Stuff and thing: Thing refers to single countable objects (e.g. a car, a mouse) Things refers to plural countable objects (e.g. clothes, spiders, pens) Stuff refers to uncountable objects (e.g. oil, information) or a collection of countable objects (like things) e.g. a lot of clothes, shopping items. We often use these words when both the speaker and the listener know which objects are being discussed, or when we don't know the exact word, or even when there isn't an exact word.

Where do you keep all the cleaning stuff 'the cleaning stuff' means all the different things that are used to clean a house: mops, brushes, creams and polishes. I can't clean your bedroom floor, there's loads of stuff/things it. 'loads of stuff/things' probably means toys, socks, papers etc. I need a thing to stop my washing machine from leaking, you know, a round rubber thing that goes on the main pipe. Approximately All of the following phrases have a similar meaning to 'approximately'but they are less formal. about: It'll take you about 20 minutes to drive there. roughly: There were roughly 50 people at the lecture. more or less: There's twenty minutes till the end of the game, less. Further stuff: When there are more examples that you can give, but you don't need to, you can use 'etcetera' and 'and all that sort of thing' to shorten 'and all that sort of thing' We had a great time in Egypt. We saw the Nile, Cairo, the pyramidsetcetera. In my office job, I have to do the filing, manage the scheduling, answer the phones and all that sort of thing David's a great team captain. He's decisive, determined Vocabulary: everybody chips in everybody helps or contributes to doing a task we all do our bit we all contribute fairly to doing a task pricey expensive I'm afraid I regret to say/ I'm sorry to say (a polite expression used when saying 'no') It isn't up to me It's not my choice. I can't/don't decide this

Make, let, allow

Make - active form The verb 'make' has several meanings in English. When Helen says 'I can't make people call', she means that she cannot force people to call; she does not have the power to control or change the situation. When 'make' means 'force' or 'control', in the active form, it is followed by an object and the bare infinitive (infinitive without 'to'). subject

make

object

infinitive without 'to'

(can't) make

people

call

Be careful: in the active form, 'make' is NOT followed by 'to', and it is NOT followed by an -ing form: The teacher made us to do our homework - WRONG The teacher made us doing our homework - WRONG The teacher made us do our homework - RIGHT Make - passive form When 'make' means 'force', in the passive from, it is followed by the infinitive with 'to'. subject

was/were made

infinitive with 'to'

complement

was made

to repeat

the exercise

Let If you 'let' somebody do something, you give permission or youallow them to do something. Helen says 'if you want him to move in, you'll have to let him have a discount.' When 'let' means 'allow' or 'give permission', it is followed by anobject and the bare infinitive (infinitive without 'to'). subject let

object infinitive without 'to'

complement

You

him

a discount

('ll have to) let

have

Be careful: 'let' is NOT followed by 'to', and it is NOT followed by an -ing form: The teacher let us to leave early - WRONG The teacher let us leaving early - WRONG

The teacher let us leave early - RIGHT Allow Allow has a similar meaning to 'let'. When Helen's dad says 'Helen, you know I can't allow it', he means that he can't give permission. Allow can be used in 2 ways: 1. It is followed by an object. The object can be a noun, or it can be an -ing form. subject

allow

object

complement

She He

won't allow doesn't allow

a party smoking

in this house in the office

2. It is followed by an object (noun or pronoun) and the infinitive with 'to'. subject

allow

object

infinitive with 'to'

complement

She

won't allow

to have

a party

Be careful: in this pattern, the object is NOT followed by an -ing form: The teacher allowed us leaving early - WRONG The teacher allowed us to leaving early - WRONG The teacher allowed us to leave early - RIGHT Passive forms are also possible. Smoking is not allowed in this building You are not allowed to smoke in this building Vocabulary knock a bit off reduce slightly to cost a fortune to be very expensive keep on (v) continue

Verb + verb-ing

Background When a verb is followed by another verb, the second verb must beeither an infinitive with 'to' such as 'to do', 'to make', 'to go' etc. or an -ing form such as 'doing', 'making', 'going'. In this episode of The Flatmates, the police officer says 'Would you mind answering a few questions...?' The form of the second verb depends on the first verb, and/or the speaker's intended meaning. Some of the rules about verb + verb-ing are given here. Basic verbs Verb-ing is used after these verbs: admit

avoid

consider

deny

fancy

finish

hate

imagine

mind

love

postpone

regret

risk

stop

suggest

Examples: The children admitted taking the sweets. I considered becoming a singer when I left school. Do you fancy going to see a movie tonight? Would you mind opening the window? It's rather hot in here. He suggested eating out, but I had already prepared dinner at home. Phrasal verbs Verb-ing is used after these phrasal verbs: carry on

give up

go on

keep on

put off

Examples: The children carried on playing even though it had started to rain. I gave up smoking 3 years ago. The teacher went on talking even though some of the students weren't listening. Why do you keep on eating fatty food when you know it's bad for you? Negatives

To make the -ing verb negative, use not: Would you mind not making so much noise? I like not having to get up early at weekends. Somebody It is possible to use the structure verb + somebody + verb-ing: I can't imagine you living in a foreign country. I don't like you telling me what to do all the time. In the passive form, use being and the past participle: I don't like being told what to do all the time. Vocabulary authenticity (n) the quality or condition of being real, trustworthy, or genuine in doubt under question, not fully believed at some length thoroughly, completely or repeatedly; for a long time as it happens this is an informal expression which means 'actually'

Comment and viewpoint adverbs

Adverbs - background Adverbs are often used to give more information about verbs. In other words, adverbs often tell us how things happen. Examples: He swims fast. How does he swim? - fast She sings beautifully. How does she sing? - beautifully I opened the door wide. How did I open the door? - wide She quickly finished her dinner. How did she finish? - quickly

Comment & viewpoint adverbs Comment and viewpoint adverbs add information about the speaker's opinion of events. They do not usually give information about how something happened. Comment & viewpoint adverbs often modify the complete sentence, not just the verb. Compare these sentences: 1. She started singing happily. (adverb of manner) 2. Happily, she started singing. (comment adverb) In sentence 1, the adverb - happily - gives more information abouthow she was singing. In sentence 2, the adverb - happily - gives the speaker's comment/opinion of the event. In this case, the speaker thinks that her starting to sing was a happy event. Comment and viewpoint adverbs - position Comment adverbs usually go at the beginning of a sentence or clause. They can also be placed after the subject, or at the end of the sentence/clause. Clearly, Paul had no idea what he was doing. Paul had no idea what he was doing, clearly. Paul clearly had no idea what he was doing. When the comment adverb is placed after the subject, commas are often used around the adverb: Paul, clearly, had no idea what he was doing. Common comment & viewpoint adverbs Common viewpoint adverbs (most of these can also function as comment adverbs) clearly

confidentially obviously

personally

seriously

surely

theoretically truthfully

technically

presumably

undoubtedly Common comment adverbs (most of these can also function as viewpoint adverbs) bravely

carelessly

certainly

cleverly

definitely

disappointingly foolishly

fortunately

generously

happily

kindly

luckily

naturally

obviously

rightly

simply

stupidly

thoughtfully unbelievably unfortunately

unluckily

wisely

wrongly

Vocabulary traced discovered where something originally came from, or discovered the

course of events which caused something to be in its present state or location establishment place of business reputable with a good reputation; reliable and trustworthy supplier a person or business which provides or supplies goods or services indeed 'indeed' is used here as an interjection which expresses disbelief, scepticism, irony or doubt apparently (adv) according to the information which is available technically (adv) according to strict obedience to laws, rules, or principles

Phrasal verbs with 'pick'

Background: Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or an adverb), for example, 'off' or 'on', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually non-literal. For example, to pick means to choose (Shepicked the most expensive meal on the menu) but to pick at meansto slowly eat only a small part of a meal (She picked at her food for about 20 minutes before asking the waiter to take it away). The meaning of phrasal verbs changes according to the particle that follows the main verb. Sometimes a verb-particle combination can have more than one meaning, according to the context in which it is used. Below are some examples of phrasal verbs which begin with 'pick'. Grammar: There are four different types of phrasal verb: Type 1 Type 1 phrasal verbs take an object (they are transitive): I turned off the light.

He picked up a few words of Japanese. You can separate the two parts of the phrasal verb with the object: I turned the light off. He picked a few words of Japanese up. If you use an object pronoun (me, you, him, her, it, us, them) youmust separate the two parts of the phrasal verb: I turned it off. He picked it up easily. Type 2 Type 2 phrasal verbs take an object (they are transitive) but youcannot separate the two parts of the verb: I'm working on a new project. I'm working on it. Keep off the grass! Keep off it! Type 3 Type 3 phrasal verbs do not take a direct object (they areintransitive) and you never separate the two parts of the verb: Mark didn't stop. He carried on. Their money ran out after 3 months. Type 4 Type 4 phrasal verbs are made of three words. They always have a direct object and you never separate these words with the object or the object pronoun: I picked up on her discomfort very quickly. She is looking forward to the weekend. Some phrasal verbs can be both Type 3 and Type 4. You can add a new particle so that the verb can then take an object: To let go/ let go of something She loved him, but she knew she had to let go. She loved him, but she knew she had to let go of him. To check out/to check out of somewhere She checked out at 10 o'clock. She checked out of the hotel at 10 o'clock. Pick at: 1. To slowly eat only a small part of a meal (type 2): She picked ather food for about 20 minutes before asking the waiter to take it away. 2. To persistently and/or unnecessarily find fault with something (type 2): I hate my new boss: He constantly picks at my work and often tells me to do it again, even though there's nothing wrong with it. Pick off:

1. To remove by pulling or plucking off (type 1): My jacket was covered in hundreds of small spots of white paint. I had to wait until it dried and then pick them all off individually - it took ages.

2. To single out and shoot (type 1): The gunman was very well hidden and he was able to pick off the enemy soldiers one by one.

Pick on: 1. To repeatedly tease, bully or behave badly towards somebody (type 2): All the children picked on Tommy because he wore glasses. 2. To single out one person from a group (type 2): I think the teacher knew I hadn't prepared for the class. That's why she picked on me to answer her questions. I'll make sure I'm prepared next time. Pick up: 1. To lift up or take up (type 1): She put her coat on, picked up her bag, and left. 2. To learn through experience rather than effort (type 1): When I got back from Tokyo I realised that I had picked up quite a few Japanese words. 3. To make progress or to improve (type 3): Business was very slow for the first few months, but it picked up in the new year. 4. To catch an infectious disease (type 1): I picked up a chest infection towards the end of the week. 5. To arrest or take someone into custody (type 1): The bank was robbed at 6pm. The police had picked up 3 suspects by 9. 6. To collect somebody by car (type 1): Pick me up at 6 - I'll be waiting outside the train station. 7. To buy something (type 1): Could you pick up some milk on your way home please? 8. To pay a bill, especially for other people (type 1): We went to a lovely restaurant, but I'm not sure how much it cost: John picked upthe bill. 9. To continue something that was stopped for a while (type 1): We're out of time, so we'll end the meeting now, but we can pick it upagain next week. 10. To receive a transmission on tv, radio etc. (type 1): We can'tpick up channel 5 in this area. Pick up on: To become aware of something without being told about it (type 4): She picked up on the bad feeling between Tom and Jill. Pick out: To choose, select or identify something for a specific purpose or reason (type 1): The teacher seemed to have picked her out as his

favourite student, which made her feel quite uncomfortable at times. Pick over: To examine or inspect a group of items in order to find the best or most suitable one(s) (type 2): The shoppers were busily picking over the dresses on the 'reduced' rail. Vocabulary everything's out in the open everything that was hidden has now been revealed / shown / talked about right from the word go right from the start oh gosh a mild expression of shock or surprise, similar in meaning to 'oh my goodness!' I've got to fly I must leave now/ quickly

Idioms - trouble

Background: Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. If you 'make your bed and lie in it', it means you accept the consequences of your actions, not that you arrange your bed and then lie down and go to sleep. Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say 'face the music' to mean 'accept a punishment for a wrong-doing', but you can't say 'face the song' or 'face the movie'. To be in / get into trouble: To To To To

be in hot water get in hot water land in hot water find oneself in hot water

To be in a dangerous situation, or a difficult situation where you are likely to be punished. 'She sent quite a few emails complaining about her boss. Someone forwarded them to the boss - she's in hot water now!' To be in the soup This idiom is similar in meaning to 'to be in hot water.' It means: to be in a dangerous situation, or a difficult situation where you are likely to be punished. 'I told her not to send that email, but she wouldn't listen to me, and now she's in the soup.' To get out of the soup To escape from a difficult or dangerous situation, thus avoiding punishment. 'We're in quite a lot of trouble right now, but I have a plan which could get us out of the soup.' To be in somebody's bad books To be in the dog house To be off the team These idioms all mean that somebody who you are usually close to is angry with you, because of something you did (or something you should have done, but didn't). 'I'm in my mum's bad books again. I said I'd do the washing up before I went out, but I didn't.' 'I'm in the doghouse because I forgot my boyfriend's birthday. He hasn't spoken to me for three days.' 'I went to a party with my girlfriend last weekend, but she said I spent all my time talking to my friends, and not enough time with her, so I'm off the team at the moment.' To be up the creek without a paddle This means that you are in trouble and you have no way to save yourself. A creek is a small river: if you are in a boat without a paddle (a paddle is a short, flat oar that people use to move and control small boats) you are stuck in the middle of the creek with no way to control your boat. 'It was the middle of the night. I was at the station, with no money, no ticket and no telephone. The last bus had just left, and all the hotels were full. I was definitely up the creek without a paddle.' To catch somebody red-handed To discover somebody in the act of committing a crime or doing something bad. 'We spent ages wondering who the office thief was. Then one day I came back from lunch and discovered it was Julie. I caught her red-handed, going through my bag.' To put the cat among the pigeons To do or say something that causes trouble or makes people angry, worried or upset. 'Tell them that they are all going to have their pay cut. That shouldput the cat among the pigeons!' The consequences of trouble: To make your bed and lie in it This means that if you have done something bad or stupid, you have to accept the results of your actions. 'I don't want to hear you complaining that you haven't got any money:

you bought a really expensive watch last month when there is nothing wrong with the watch you already have. If you've got no money, it's your own fault - you made your bed, now lie in it!' To face the music To receive punishment or judgement for something wrong or illegal that you have done. 'The young man was taken to court and forced to face the music for the crimes that he had committed.' To throw the book at somebody This idiom is used when the police or other official body try to get the maximum possible punishment for someone's wrong-doings. 'He drove really fast, straight through a red light. The police stopped him and found that he was driving with no tax, no insurance and he had been drinking alcohol too! They threw the book at him and he got sent to prison for a long time.' Punishment: (To get/give someone) a slap on the wrist To get a light punishment for a crime or wrongdoing: often lighter than expected or normal. 'He stole handbags from at least 7 old ladies, but all he got was six weeks in prison. That's just a slap on the wrist, if you ask me!' (To get/give someone) a tongue-lashing A tongue-lashing is where someone speaks to you very sharply (and often for quite a long time) because you did something bad or wrong. 'She was very lucky that she didn't get sent to prison for what she did. The judge let her go with a fine and a severe tongue lashing.' To get one's knuckles rapped To get a rap on the knuckles 'Knuckles' are the joints of the bones in the hand and fingers. 'Rap' means to hit sharply. The literal meaning of this idiom is to hit sharply on the back of the hand (a punishment that used to be used in some British schools). The idiomatic meaning is to receive a short, immediate punishment, that is not especially severe. 'He stole a car and drove it around for a couple of hours before returning it to its owner. It was his first offence and he seemed sorry, so the judge let him go with a rap on the knuckles'. Other trouble idioms: To stitch somebody up To be stitched up To arrange for somebody else to be blamed for a crime or wrongdoing they are not responsible for. These idiomatic verbs are often used in the passive form: To fit somebody up To be fitted up 'After he had spent several years in prison, the police found evidence to suggest that he was innocent and had been stitched up by one of his colleagues.' To pin something on somebody To find or create evidence that will identify somebody as the person who

committed a particular crime (even though they may be innocent). 'The police think he robbed the bank, but they haven't got enough evidence to pin it on him.' To be on the level To be legally and morally acceptable; genuine and truthful 'He tried to sell me some cheap concert tickets but I wasn't sure if they were on the level so I said no.' Vocabulary: switch change, exchange, swap

Predictions: 'will'

Predications: will When we want to talk about something that we think will happen orpredict to happen in the future, we can use 'will' plus the infinitive (without 'to'). The short form of 'will' is 'll. In episode 88 of The Flatmates, when Tim's boss describes his plan, and says 'That'll take the heat off us.', he is predicting the results of his plan. Tim responds by making a prediction of his own: 'So somebody elsewill end up being charged with a crime they didn't commit.' The negative form of 'will' is won't. Tim makes a prediction about the police: 'Yeah, but the police won'tjust take my word for it.' Adverbs with will We can use adverbs with 'will'. In positive sentences, they usually go between 'will' and the verb. Tim's boss says '.it'll probably be you.' 'Tim will definitely be in trouble for this.' 'The police will never discover the truth.'

In negative sentences, the adverb goes before 'won't'. 'This probably won't take long.' 'I definitely won't need any help.' Other common expressions with will: I expect - 'The concert finishes at 9 o'clock. I expect I'll be home by 10.' I'm sure - 'It's a beautiful day. I'm sure you won't need a coat. I think - 'The report is nearly ready. I think it'll be finished by the end of the week.' I don't think - 'I don't think you'll enjoy this film.' I wonder - 'I wonder what she will do next?' Vocabulary: a tight spot a difficult situation that is hard to solve or get out of tampered with interfered with - here, opened without permission take the heat off (here) take the police's attention away take my word for it believe me charged with formally accused of committing a crime

Work vocabulary

Starting & finishing work employ (v) to employ somebody means to give them a job. 'My father's company employs 25 people.' take on (v) this means to hire or employ someone (at the beginning of their period of employment). 'The company got a really big order. It had to take on 10 new workers.'

knock off (v) this informal verb means to finish work for the day. 'We finish work at 5pm every day, but on Fridays we knock off at 3.' fire (v) sack (v) when a boss makes someone leave their job, because they have done something wrong or bad. 'The company fired / sacked six people after they were caught sleeping at work.' These verbs can be used in the passive form with get or be. be / get fired (v) be / get sacked (v) 'He got fired / got sacked for stealing.' quit (v) to leave your job through your own choice; to resign. 'She quit her job when she got married.' to be made redundant (v) to lose your job because the company no longer needs the type of work you do. '50 people were made redundant when the shop closed down. Another 20 were transferred to another branch.' People gaffer (n) a slang word for boss, often used in manual labour. 'Quick - get back to work! The gaffer's coming!' line manager (n) your immediate boss, who is not usually the boss of the whole company. 'If you have a problem at work, you should first speak to your line manager. If s/he can not resolve the problem, you should go to the head of your department.' co-worker (n) somebody you work with, usually doing jobs of equal pay and status. 'My co-workers are very nice. Most of them have been working at the company for years.' freelancer (n) a person who works as a writer, designer, performer etc., selling work or services by the hour, day, job, etc., instead of working regularly for just one employer. 'He worked for the same company for several years before he quit and became a freelancer.' Avoiding work pull a sickie this slang expression means to contact your place of work and tell them you are sick and cannot come to work when really there is nothing wrong with you. 'The boss told her she could not have any time off to go to her sister's wedding, but she pulled a sickie and went anyway.' skive (v) to avoid work by either staying at home without permission, or by being

lazy or not doing your job properly when you are at work. 'She is so lazy. She always arrives late and she skives all the time.' skiver (n) a person who skives (see the definition of skive above). 'He is such a skiver! He takes really long tea breaks and he always goes home at least 30 minutes early.' leave (n) permission to be absent from work for an agreed length of time, usually measured in days or weeks. 'He was given 2 weeks' leavewhen his elderly father died.' Money wage / wages (n) money that is paid or received for work or services, usually by the hour, day, or week. 'We get our wages in cash every Friday.' salary (n) a fixed, regular (usually monthly) payment for work. 'Secretarial salaries in London are quite high.' payslip (n) a slip of paper included with your pay that records how much money you have earned and how much tax or insurance etc. has been taken out. 'I always keep my payslips so that I can prove what my income is.' bonus (n) a sum of money given to an employee, in addition to regular pay, usually because the employee has done their job especially well or has worked very hard or for a long time. 'All the workers got a ÂŁ100 bonus at the end of the year.' timesheet (n) a piece of paper on which you write how many hours you have worked in a day, week or month so that you can be paid for what you have worked. 'Don't forget to fill in your timesheet every Wednesday. Otherwise you may not be paid on time.' severance pay (n) money paid to an employee who has to leave their job because of lack of work or other reasons beyond the employee's control. 'The redundant workers each got one week's severance pay for every year of employment.' Vocabulary swapped changed one thing for another; exchanged to wriggle out of it to escape from a difficult situation or avoid doing something, in a way other people don't like allegations (n) accusations of wrong-doing against somebody

I bet I'm sure hard evidence real proof behind bars in prison

Expressions with 'hand'

Background There are many English expressions, idioms and proverbs which refer to hands. There are probably many similar ones in your own language. This worksheet presents a selection of some of the common ones related to control & responsibility, help, and trust & honesty. Control & Responsibility to have/get the upper hand If you have or get the upper hand, you are in a position of control or advantage. 'The team got the upper hand when they scored a goal in the final minute.' to get/be out of hand If something gets out of hand, it gets out of control. 'The game was a bit rough, but it really got out of hand when the players started fighting.' to have your hands full If your hands are full, or if you have your hands full with something, you have so much to do that you can not take on any extra tasks or responsibilities. 'Sorry, I can't help you with your homework. I've got my hands fullwith this essay.' to have your hands tied If your hands are tied, or if you have your hands tied, something is stopping you from taking action. 'I got a parking fine today. I begged the policeman to forgive me, but he said that since he had already written the ticket, his hands were tied.' to wash your hands of something This means that you refuse to have any more involvement in a situation

and you will not accept further responsibility for anything that happens in this situation. 'I warned him not to take the money, but he ignored my advice and now he's in trouble with the police. This is the third time it has happened, so I have washed my hands of him.' with a heavy hand heavy-handed These expressions refer to a strict and controlling way of doing things. 'He has a heavy-handed approach to management. He often upsets people with his direct and critical style.' Avoiding work to give someone a hand If someone gives you a hand, they help you. 'Hey Tim, could you give me a hand to move this box? It's too heavy for me to lift on my own.' many hands make light work This proverb means that if a lot of people help with a task, it will be completed quickly and easily. 'We can get this furniture moved very quickly if everybody helps -many hands make light work!' Money to be in safe hands If a person or thing is in safe hands, it is being looked after very well. 'Don't worry about your cats while you are on holiday. I will feed them every day and make sure they are ok. They will be in safe hands!' to get your hands dirty To become involved with something difficult, dangerous or corrupt which you would rather not do. 'The boss asked me to tell the workers that they were sacked. He doesn't want to get his hands dirty by telling them himself.' the devil finds/makes work for idle hands This proverb means that if people do not have anything to do with their time, they are more likely to get involved with trouble and criminality 'I believe in the saying "The devil finds work for idle hands", so when my kids were on their school holidays I made sure they kept out of trouble by giving them jobs to do around the house.' to keep your hands clean If you keep your hands clean, you do not become involved in illegal or immoral activity. 'He wanted me to help him change the financial records, but I said no. I want to keep my hands clean.' Vocabulary tea's up an informal phrase which means 'the tea's ready' something will turn up soon something good will happen soon - in this case, Tim will find a new job.

fancy short for 'do you fancy.?' meaning 'would you like.?' footy short for 'football' a complete tip really messy and untidy

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Past perfect

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Past perfect - form

The past perfect is made from a subject, 'had' and the past participle (the third form of the verb). Positive

Negative

Question

I had known

I hadn't known

Had I known?

You had known

You hadn't known

Had you known?

He/she/it had known

He/she/it hadn't known

Had he/she/it known?

We had known

We hadn't known

Had we known?

You had known

You hadn't known

Had you known?

They had known

They hadn't known

Had they known?

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Past perfect - meaning & use

The past perfect is used to make it clear that one event happened before another in the past. In episode 91 of the flatmates, Tim says: "But when you interviewed me the other week you really seemed to think that I had stolen the watches." Tim is talking about 2 events which both happened in the past: the police interview, and the theft of the watches. Because the theft of the watches happened before the police interview, Tim uses the past perfect: 'I had stolen'. It does not matter which event is mentioned first - the tense makes it clear which one happened first. Tim could have said: "But you really seemed to think that I had stolen the watches when you interviewed me the other week."

More examples: I didn't have any money because I had lost my purse. Tony knew Istanbul so well because he had been there several times. Had John ever studied Japanese before he moved to Japan? She only understood the book because she had seen the film. We couldn't get a table because we hadn't booked in advance.

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Adverbs with the past perfect

Adverbs such as: always, only, never, ever, still, just, etc. can be used with the past perfect. They are usually placed between 'had' and the past participle. The train had just left when I arrived at the station. She had just left the room when the teacher arrived. She had only met her husband once when she married him. Marco had never needed to speak English until he moved to New York.

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Vocabulary

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a counterfeiting ring group of criminals who work together to make and distribute fake products or fake money statement a written account of events or facts, usually made by a witness to a crime, for use by the police in a court of law CCTV closed-circuit television; security cameras to secure a conviction to make sure that somebody is found guilty of a crime, in a court of law posh (adj) elegant, fashionable, wealthy and upper class adamant determined, insistent; will not be persuaded to change an idea or belief

There and It

There We use there when we introduce an idea, talk about something for the first time or to say that something exists. In episode 92 of The Flatmates, Tim says: "there's an old saying" to introduce what he's about to talk about. More examples: There's no time, I'm late as it is, bye! There might be a new cafe opening up on the High Street. He didn't like living here. He said there was too much traffic and too much pollution. There also means to, at or in a particular place. I need to get there as soon as possible. Have you seen that new cafe? Fancy going there for a coffee? He wanted to move to the countryside because it was quieter there. It We use it to talk about a specific place, thing, animal or situation. In episode 92 of The Flatmates, Khalid should have said: "It's going well" (It's = settling in to the flat) More examples: I was late yesterday. It was because my alarm didn't go off. (it = my being late) I tried that new cafe yesterday. It was really packed. (it = the cafe) He wants to move to the countryside. It'll be much quieter there. (it = the countryside) We can also use it to talk about distance, weather and time: How far is it to your house? It's hot today. It was last June when I saw her. We can use it with adjectives in a to + infinitive expression like: It's great to live and work in New York. It was fascinating to see these ancient buildings. We usually begin these expressions with it, we don't usually put it towards the end of the sentence:

'It's bad for you to smoke cigarettes' sounds more natural than 'To smoke cigarettes is bad for you'. 'It was great that he finally got married' sounds more natural than 'That he finally got married was great'. We can also use it to introduce a for + infinitive expression like: It's important for you to watch me, if you want to learn the dance steps. It will be good for her to have a break. She's been working too hard. Comparing There and It She grew up in a small village. There were a lot of farms near her house. It was a very peaceful place to live. He works in a huge hospital. It's a very stressful job. There are lots of emergencies he has to deal with there. Vocabulary footy (informal) short for 'football' wangle get something by persuading someone or by doing something clever put my foot in it (informal) say something you didn't mean to say which upsets or embarrasses someone

Phrasal verbs 7 - with 'stand'

Introduction Phrasal verbs (also known as multi-word verbs ) are verbs made of two or more words. The first word is a verb and the second word (known as a particle) is either a preposition or an adverb. Some phrasal verbs can have two particles. Phrasal verbs with one particle: stand up, let down, fall for, ask out, settle down Phrasal verbs with more than one particle: go out with, take care of The meaning of phrasal verbs changes according to the particle that follows the main verb. Sometimes a verb-particle combination can have

more than one meaning, according to the context in which it is used. Below are some examples of phrasal verbs which begin with 'stand'. phrasal verbs with objects Phrasal verbs which must take an object are known as transitivephrasal verbs. In the examples below the object must go after theverb and particle. to stand for something: to allow something to happen or continue to happen And you think I'd stand for that? You're a bully and I won't stand for it any longer! to stand for something: to be the abbreviation of a longer form of words FAQ stands for 'Frequently Asked Questions'. Do you know what MP3 stands for? to stand up to somebody: to confront someone After years of bullying she finally stood up to him and decided to leave him. He tried to stand up to his boss but he just wasn't confident enough. to stand over somebody: to stand very near someone and watch them very closely It gives me the creeps when she stands over me while I'm working on the computer. You don't have to stand over me all the time. I can do this work by myself!

seperable phrasal verbs Sometimes the object of a transitive phrasal verb must be placedbetween the verb and particle. The following phrasal verbs are separable. to stand somebody up: to fail to keep an appointment with someone, especially a romantic date I waited for her for half an hour before I realised she had stood me up. You shouldn't stand people up. If you can't keep a date, you should call them.

phrasal verbs without objects Some phrasal verbs do not take an object. These are calledintransitive phrasal verbs. The phrasal verbs below do not have objects. to stand down: to leave an important job or role (e.g. in politics) and let someone else do the job She stood down as Prime Minister only two years before she died. When they found out the Chairman had stolen money from the company, he had to stand down. to stand out: to be very noticeable because someone/something is very unusual Everyone else wore a white shirt. He really stood out with his bright red

t-shirt. Your rusty old car really stands out beside all those flashy, new sports cars. to stand out: to be much better than other people or things in a similar situation When I saw all the other children's pictures, her art work really stood out. In that whole competition, there were only two dancers who stood out. to stand around: to stand somewhere and not do anything (usually in an aimless way) What are you doing standing around? Quick, get upstairs and tidy your room! I don't have time to stand around waiting for you. Why didn't you call me if you were going to be late? Vocabulary gal (informal) girl branded given a bad name or reputation (usually unfairly) to clear my name to prove that I am innocent of a crime or of some bad behavio The truth will out (saying) Even if you try to keep something a secret, people will find out the true facts eventually got the boot were forced to leave your job quit leave your job through your own choice prospects (always plural) chances for future success in employment, education etc.

Jobs vocabulary

People who work with food a cook someone who cooks and prepares food

a chef a cook who has qualifications and is very skilled at cooking a sous-chef a chef who works below the main chef and who is directly in charge of what is produced in the kitchen a baker someone who makes bread and cakes People who work with children a child-minder someone who looks after children in her/his house during the day while the children's parents are working a nursery school teacher someone who cares for and teaches young children (3 - 5 year-olds) before they go to primary or infants school People who work in politics a canvasser someone who goes to people's houses and tries to persuade them to vote for a particular politician or political party in an election (canvassers are usually volunteers, they don't get paid for this work) a spin doctor someone who makes ideas, events and political speeches seem better than they really are a speech writer someone who writes speeches for a politician People who work in newspapers or magazines an agony aunt someone who answers people's emotional, work or family problems a gossip columnist someone who writes about what famous people are doing, what parties they go to and who's dating who an editor the person who is responsible for what is written in a newspaper People who work outside a traffic warden someone who enforces parking rules and gives out tickets to drivers who park their cars illegally a bicycle courier someone who delivers letters and parcels within a city (usually in the business district) by bike a road sweeper someone who brushes up and collects litter on pavements and streets

Vocabulary a whiz at something someone who is very good or fast at a particular activity or task a pager a small machine which receives signals from a telephone right away immediately a favour something you do for someone to help them out

Reflexive pronouns

The reflexive pronouns When the subject and the object in a sentence are the same, we use a reflexive pronoun. singular: myself plural:

yourself

ourselves yourselves

herself

himself itself

themselves

Examples: When you go to university, you need to look afteryourself. He's very big headed. He has a very high opinion of himself. It's lovely to see you both. Come in and make yourselves at home. Reflexive pronouns for emphasis We can use reflexive pronouns to highlight or emphasise the subjector object. It makes it clear that we are talking about this person or thing and nobody or nothing else. She's only two but she loves trying to feed herself = She's trying to be independent at a young age. He likes to save money by cutting his hair himself = He doesn't get the hairdresser to cut his hair (as most people do). Examples: The queen herself is coming to visit our school next year. They designed their house themselves. They said it was cheaper that way. The match itself was really good, it's just a pity it ended in a two-all

draw. Comparing -selves and each other: Themselves/yourselves/ourselves and each other can refer to two people but they are used in slightly different ways. Kate and Mike are both a bit crazy. You know, they' talk tothemselves = Kate talks to herself and Mike talks to himself. Kate and Mike talk to each other = Kate and Mike have a conversation together. Examples: They decided to treat themselves and have dinner in that new restaurant. They treated each other for their wedding anniversary - he gave her chocolates and she gave him a new shirt. They looked at each other and instantly fell in love. The actress tried on the dress and the actor tried on the shirt for the play and then they looked at themselves in the mirrors. Michal said 'We need to let each other go.' When no reflexive pronoun is needed: We don't use reflexive pronouns with some verbs: feel, relax, hurry, concentrate, meet, get up, wash, shave, dress Examples: I love to relax by just lazing on the beach doing nothing. She needs to concentrate more if she wants to pass her exam. He gets up, washes and shaves early and then has breakfast. Vocabulary something was going on something wrong was happening cheating behaving dishonestly you'll always have a special place in my heart you will always be important to me and I will remember you very fondly to let each other go to not be in a relationship anymore and not see each other again

Family vocabulary

Words we use to talk about our families (mother, father, sister etc.) can also have other meanings, either on their own or as part of compound words or phrases.

Mother Other words for mother mummy

mommy (US)

mum

Other words with 'mother' mother tongue the language you grow up speaking, or your first language She's lived in Spain for years and is completely fluent in Spanish. You'd never guess that German is her mother tongue. Mother Nature nature, particularly when it is seen as a force that controls the weather and all living things The tsunami showed Mother Nature at her most fierce. a mother-to-be a woman who is pregnant (expecting a baby) You shouldn't be smoking. You're a mother-to-be now. You need to think about your unborn baby's health. Father Other words for father daddy

pop (US)

dad

Other words with 'father' a father figure an older man who people trust and respect My first boss was such a father figure to me. He taught me so much about the art world. Father Christmas Santa Claus, an imaginary man who brings presents to children at Christmas The children can't wait to see what Father Christmas has brought them this year. founding father someone who begins a new organisation or a new way of thinking

Galileo was the founding father of modern physics. He did scientific experiments that no-one had ever done before. Sister Other words with 'sister' Sister a nurse who is in charge in a hospital ward Sister, can I have some more medication? My leg is hurting very badly now. Sister a nun (a woman who is a member of a religious group) who usually lives with other nuns in a convent Sister Bernadette, please say a prayer for my daughter. She's got her exams today. sister a word to show support between women We hope all our sisters will raise their voices against this injustice! Brother Other words with 'brother' brother-in-arms soldiers who fight or fought together in a war (often used as a literary reference) They were brothers-in-arms and 40 years later, they still remembered every battle. Big Brother a person or ruler that has complete power and tries to control people's behaviour and thoughts (from the book '1984' by George Orwell) Everywhere you go now there are CCTV cameras. The government has turned into a real Big Brother. Twin

Other words with 'twin' twin town a town or city that has formed a relationship with a similar town in another country and which encourages business and tourist visits between them Glasgow's twin town is Havana Vocabulary bedtime time when people (especially children) go to sleep I'd love to have your company It would be nice if you could stay with me and spend time with me let me stay down allow me to remain here you can't make me

you can't force me

Fairness vocabulary

Background There are many English expressions, idioms and proverbs which refer to fairness. Here are some of the common ones related to treating people equally and reasonably, giving people what they deserve and of playing games honestly and according to the rules. Treating people correctly or reasonably to be fair to treat everyone in the same way. This is usually said when you think you aren't getting the same treatment as everyone else. Be fair mum! You can't give Katie that huge chocolate cake and nothing to me! fair enough what someone did or said was fair and reasonable (although you might not agree with it) "I'm so angry with her because she turned up two hours late!" "Fair enough." to have a fair crack of the whip to have an equal chance to do something There are four different prizes in this competition so we should all have a fair crack of the whip. Giving people what they expect or deserve It's a fair cop an expression to show that you were caught doing something wrong, and you agree that what you did was wrong. You don't have an excuse for what you did. It's a fair cop. The boss saw you at the football match when you said you were sick. No wonder she was so angry with you!

Fair's fair an expression to show you want someone to behave reasonably or treat everyone in the same way Come on. I've done all the shopping. It's your turn to make the dinner. Fair's fair! Doing things according to the rules by fair means or foul an expression to show you will use any method (good or bad) to get what you want I want a signed copy of that book and I don't care what I have to do to get it. I swear, by fair means or foul, I'll get my hands on it. to win fair and square/to beat someone fair and square to win a game or match in an honest way The West Indies were much better on the day. They beat the Englishfair and square. to play fair to act in an honest and open way She wasn't exactly playing fair when she said she was quite a good dancer. She won the championship last year but she didn't mention that! Vocabulary negotiating having (often formal) discussions or talks with someone to reach an agreement with them heavy serious fairness treating people in the same way grow up! act like an adult and act responsibly (used when you think someone is behaving in an immature or childish way)

The zero conditional

A conditional is used to talk about a possible or imaginary situation (the condition) and the consequences (or the result) of it. The zero conditional - meaning We use the zero conditional to talk about something that will always happen (the result), if or when a particular condition is met. Alice uses the zero conditional to tell Paul that whenever he next needs a babysitter in the future (the condition), he will always have to find someone other than Alice to help him (the result). Next time you need a babysitter, find some other mug! When it's 7.30, you go to bed Ellie. If there's an emergency, Paul always helps at the hospital. So, the meaning is that if the condition is met, then the result will always happen. The zero conditional - form The zero conditional is made up of the condition (the 'if/when/next time' part of the sentence) and the consequence or the result. The Condition

The consequence or result

If + present simple,

present simple

Next time you need a babysitter, When you shop online, If you heat ice,

find some other mug. you get a 10% discount. it melts.

Note: There is always a comma (,) between the two parts of the zero conditional, when we start with the 'if' part: Next time you need a babysitter, find some other mug! When it's 7.30, you go to bed Ellie. If there's an emergency, Paul always helps at the hospital. But when we start with the result part of the conditional, we don't need a comma: Find some other mug next time you need a babysitter. You go to bed when it's 7.30.

Paul always helps if there's an emergency. If, when, whenever If and when or whenever mean the same thing in the zero conditional. If it rains, she takes the bus = When it rains, she takes the bus. Whenever he sees a spider, he screams. = If he sees a spider, he screams. The zero conditional - time The zero conditional talks about things that are always true. Although it uses the present simple form, it doesn't refer only to the present, it refers to all time. When you go to university, you need to work hard. Whenever I call him, he's never there. Vocabulary casualties people who are injured or killed in a serious accident or war so-so (informal) not very good or well spoiled someone who does exactly what s/he wants to do and is selfish and doesn't care or respect other people brat (informal) a child who behaves badly or rudely a temper tantrum behaving in a rude way because you don't get the things you want a mug (informal) a stupid person

Binomials 2: black and white

Background: There are many phrases in English that use two words connected with 'and'. For example, black and white, milk and sugar. These expressions are known as binomials. In these phrases the word order is usually fixed; we say black and white, we don't say white and black. The following binomials are noun, verb and adjective phrases. Nouns - colours and shapes: black and white: written down She was really excited to see her name in black and white in the newspaper. It made her feel very important. black and blue: bruised, an injury or mark where the skin is darker in colour, often as a result of being hit by something Poor guy! First they stole his wallet and then they beat him black and blue. He was in hospital for a week after the attack. salt and pepper: hair that is a mixture of dark hairs and grey or white hairs She's only 30 but she looks so distinguished with her salt and pepperhair. stars and stripes: the USA flag The athlete cried when she heard the national anthem and saw thestars and stripes raised in the Olympic stadium. Nouns - food: sweet and sour: two flavours that give food the combined flavours of sugar and spice Fancy some sweet and sour chicken from the Chinese take-away tonight? bread and butter: simple, plain sandwich I'm not really hungry. I'll just have some bread and butter for lunch. ham and eggs: typical British breakfast of pig meat (pork) and eggs He loves to have a big fried breakfast at the weekend, with ham and eggs and all the rest. bangers and mash: (informal) sausages and mashed potatoes The kids love bangers and mash. It's so easy to make so that's great for me too. Verbs and adjectives - housework: cook and clean: (verb) make a meal or bake a cake and then wash and

tidy up afterwards I've been cooking and cleaning all day long. I'm exhausted. wash and dry: (verb) using water and washing up liquid to clean dishes and then to dry them with a cloth The party was great. Let's leave the washing and drying till tomorrow morning. clean and tidy: (adjective) cleared up Go up to your room and get to work! I want to see it clean and tidybefore you go out. spic and span: (adjective) very clean She's incredibly house-proud. The whole place is always so spic and span. I don't know how she finds the time to keep it so tidy. Vocabulary a mess dirty or untidy I didn't see it coming I didn't realise this was going to happen. It wasn't obvious to me to see it down in black and white to read something written in a letter, book, newspaper etc. the brunt of it the main force of something unpleasant I went off on one (informal) I became very angry and lost my temper

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Idioms: eating and drinking

Background:

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. If you have 'a sweet tooth' it means you like eating chocolate and other sweet things, not that you have a tooth that's made of sugar. Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say you 'make a meal of something' to mean take more time or energy doing something than is necessary but you can't say 'cook a meal of something' or 'make a cake of something'. Eating idioms: to eat humble pie to admit that you were wrong She made a huge mistake a work and now she's going to have to eat humble pie and admit to the boss that she was wrong. could eat a horse am/is/are very hungry I haven't had anything since breakfast time. I could eat a horse right now! make a meal of it take more time or energy doing something than is necessary I only asked him to tidy up the sitting room but he made a right meal of it. It took him two hours just to clear up the room. a second bite at the cherry another try after you have failed the first time He didn't get the job when he applied for it last year but another vacancy came up a few weeks ago and he got a second bite at the cherry. He's so please he got the job! not my taste I don't like it She's happy with her new curtains but that bright colour isn't my taste at all. Drinking idioms: not my cup of tea similar to 'not my taste'. See above She likes thrillers but films that frighten me just aren't my cup of tea. there's no use crying over spilt milk it is useless to regret something which has already happened I know you're upset you failed your exam but there's no use crying over spilt milk. Just get over it and start studying so you'll be ready to take it again soon.

throw cold water on something to be negative about someone's ideas or plans I spent hours preparing that report and then the boss threw cold water on it. What a waste of my time! a storm in a teacup a lot of unnecessary anger and anxiety about something that's not important He got really angry with us about being late for work. But it was astorm in a teacup. We were only 5 minutes late. Vocabulary a bust-up (informal): a fight or disagreement gave me the runaround: deliberately behave in a way that is not helpful I completely lost it lost my temper completely harsh unkind, cruel or unnecessarily severe eat some humble pie (idiom) admit that you were wrong

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Obligation and permission

When we want to talk about what we are obliged to do (or what we must do), we can use the verbs 'must' or 'have to'. To talk about what we are permitted to do (or allowed to do), we can use the verbs 'let', 'can' or 'be allowed to'. Must and Have to:

Must and Have to are both used to talk about rules or obligations. 1. Must and have to are both followed by the base form of the main verb: She must give money to her parents every month. They have to get a visa before they go on holiday to the USA. 2. Must is a modal verb so it doesn't change its form: I must wear a uniform. She must do her homework. 3. Have to isn't a modal verb so its form does change: I have to get up early for my job. He has to have short hair because he's in the army. 4. There is no past form of 'must', instead we use 'had to': We had to obey our teachers when we were students. She had to drive on the right when she was on holiday in France. Mustn't and Don't have to: 1. Mustn't and Don't have to are not used in the same way. Mustn'tis used to talk about things we are obliged not to do: In most countries, you mustn't drink alcohol and then drive. It's against the law. You mustn't run in the corridors. You might slip. 2. Don't have to is used to talk about things we are not obliged to do, we can do if we want or not: It's up to you, we can go to the cinema or not. I don't mind. We don't have to go out if you don't want to. If you don't like the food, don't worry you don't have to eat it. Can and be allowed to: Can and be allowed to are both used to talk about permission. 1. Can and be allowed to are both followed by the base form of themain verb: In Britain you can drive when you are 17. He's allowed to wear jeans at his school. 2. Can is a modal verb so it doesn't change its form: I can stay out till 10.30, on Saturday nights but I have to be home by 8.30 during the week. You can't smoke here, Khalid. 3. Be allowed to isn't a modal verb so its form does change: I'm allowed to smoke. My parent don't mind. She is allowed to wear make-up, even though she's only 14. 4. The past form of 'can' is 'could' and of 'am/is/are allowed to' is 'was/were allowed to': We could eat as many sweets as we liked, when we were young. She was allowed to drive her father's car when she was only 15.

However, we only use 'could' to talk about general permission. When we want to talk about a particular episode of permission in the past, we use allowed to: Last night she was allowed to have a bowl of ice cream because she had eaten all her vegetables. Let: We use 'let' to talk about being given permission to do something by someone. 1. 'Let' is usually followed by object + bare infinitive (the infinitive without 'to'): My parents always let us stay up late during the summer holidays. Do you think they will let me smoke in their house? 2. 'Let' is not usually used in the passive: The owner of the flat doesn't allow people to smoke in it. (active) People are not allowed to smoke in the flat. (passive)

They won't let Khalid smoke in the flat. (active) Khalid wasn't let smoke in the flat. (passive)

Vocabulary stinks smells unpleasant puff (informal) smoke from a cigarette save you the grief protect you from criticism spying on me watching me secretly to find out what I'm doing

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Apologising

In English we apologise not only when we've done something wrongbut also when we want to interrupt someone, show our feelings when something bad has happened to someone else or ask someone to repeat something. Saying sorry - for doing something wrong: Informal I'm sorry I'm late. I'm so sorry I forgot your birthday. Formal I beg your pardon madam, I didn't see you were waiting to be served. I'm awfully sorry but those tickets are sold out now. I must apologise for my children's rude behaviour. Saying sorry - giving a reason: Usually as well as apologising, we give a reason for our behaviour: I'm sorry I'm late but my alarm clock didn't go off this morning. I'm so sorry there's nothing here you can eat, I didn't realise you were a vegetarian. Saying sorry - for interrupting someone: Excuse me, can you tell me where the Post Office is please? I'm sorry but can I get through? Saying sorry - when something bad happens to someone else: I'm sorry to hear you've not been feeling well. I'm so sorry to hear your dad died. I heard you failed your driving test. I'm really sorry but I'm sure you'll pass next time.

Saying sorry - asking someone to repeat something: Excuse me? Excuse me, what did you say? I'm sorry? I'm sorry, can you say that again? Pardon? Accepting an apology: To accept an apology, we either say thanks or try to put the other person at ease in some other way. I'm so sorry I forgot your birthday. Oh don't worry, there's always next year! I'm sorry to hear you've not been feeling well. Thanks. I think I've just picked up a bug at the office. It's nothing too serious. I'm sorry I'm late but my alarm clock didn't go off this morning. That's OK. We've only just started the meeting. Vocabulary a ton of (informal) a lot of I was well out of order (informal) I behaved in a rude way a hard time a difficult time not the end of the world not a serious problem a slap-up meal (informal) an expensive meal 103

Friendship Vocabulary 2

Here is some vocabulary using the words friend and friendly. Friend: a mutual friend: a person who is the friend of two people who may or may not know each other She met her husband through mutual friends. a fair-weather friend: someone who only wants to be friend with you when things are going well but who doesn't want to be friends with you when you have problems or things are going badly He turned out to be a real fair-weather friend as soon as I lost my job. He didn't call me once when I was unemployed. a circle of friends: a group of people who have something in common and know each other Through her interests in running and art she's got a very wide circle of friends. have friend in high places: know important or influential people who can help you get what you want He hasn't done any studying this term but I bet you he won't fail his exams. He's got friends in high places, you know. a false friend: a foreign word which you confuse with a word in your own language because the two words look or sound similar but which actually has a different meaning The teacher helped her with some Spanish false friends. She thought that 'record' meant 'remember' because that's what 'recordar' means in Spanish. man's best friend: a dog My dog Spot's been with me through all my troubles. It really is true that he's man's best friend. friendly: friendly fire: during a war, when soldiers shoot soldiers from their own side, not the enemy Five of our soldiers were killed by friendly fire. Friendly can also be used as a suffix. When it's added to a noun it can make an adjective that means not harmful or suitable for particular people. For example: eco-friendly: not harmful to the environment

He tries to use eco-friendly washing powder so that he doesn't harm the world around him when he cleans his clothes. dolphin-friendly: not harmful to dolphins They use special dolphin-friendly equipment for catching tuna so that they only catch tuna and leave the dolphins behind in the sea. child-friendly: suitable for children This restaurant has special menus for kids and even gives out pens and paper for them to draw on. It's so child-friendly it makes going out for a meal so much easier than going to other restaurants. gay-friendly: suitable for gay people He usually stays in gay-friendly hotels with his boyfriend when they go on holiday. Vocabulary a bottle of bubbly a bottle of champagne a toast a short speech people give to express good wishes, followed by a drink ups and downs good times and bad times mates/pals (informal) friends absent not here 104 This is a special 2nd anniversary episode of The Flatmates written byAna Paula Lima, a learner from Brazil. There is no Language Point with this episode. Find out more about Ana Paula and The Flatmates 2nd anniversary. Vocabulary moping over being very upset about something and not being willing to think or act in a positive way to unwind to relax a mini-break a very short holiday, often a long weekend or 2 or 3 days

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Prefixes 2

You can change the meaning of some words by adding prefixes(extra letters at the beginning of words). For example, you can change the meaning of 'excited' to mean 'too excited' by adding 'over' to the beginning of it to make 'overexcited'. When Alice said 'I overreacted' she meant that she had acted or responded too strongly to the situation. Here are some common prefixes and their meanings: Too much, very, extreme over - too much protective - overprotective (adj): wanting to protect someone too much, especially a child spend - overspend (v): spend more money than you should due - overdue (adj): very late or not done when it was expected hyper - very, extremely active- hyperactive (adj): very excitable, or having more energy than is usual sensitive - hypersensitive (adj): very sensitive, easily upset by things people say or do to you market - hypermarket (n): very large supermarket ultra - extreme, beyond conservative - ultra-conservative (adj): extremely conventional or old-fashioned modern - ultra-modern (adj): very modern or contemporary trendy - ultra-trendy (adj): extremely fashionable One, two, three, four: mono - one monolingual (adj): speak or write in only one language monotone (n): a way of speaking that is very boring because your voice doesn't go up or down or get louder or quieter but just stays at the

same pitch and volume all the time monopoly (n): business that has complete control of a product or service because it is the only company that provides that product or service bi - two bilingual (adj): able to speak two languages bicentenary (n): the day two hundred years after an important event bisexual (n, adj): someone who is sexually attracted to both men and women tri - three triangle (n): three-sided shape triathlon (n): race with three sporting aspects - running, swimming and biking tricolour (n): flag with three colours triplet (n): one of three babies born at the same time to the same mother quad - four quadrilateral (n): four-sided shape quadruple (v): become four times as big, or to multiply a number or amount by four quadruplet (n): one of four babies born at the same time to the same mother Using hyphens: Most words which are created with prefixes don't use hyphens. However, some do, for example, co (co-operate), pro (pro-government) and non (non-starter). Some words with prefixes are hyphenated and other words with the same prefix aren't. For example, costar and coexist or multilayeredand multi-purpose. There's no hard and fast rule why this is the case. Use a good English-English dictionary to help you. Vocabulary I flew off the handle I got very angry overreacted responded with too much, unnecessary or inappropriate emotion badly shaken very upset about or affected by something 106

Expressions with 'heart'

Background There are many English expressions, idioms and proverbs which refer to hearts. There are probably many similar ones in your own language. Here are some of the common ones related to emotions(especially love), bravery and honesty. Emotions a heartthrob someone famous who is very attractive Elvis Presley was a real heartthrob to millions in the 1950s. a bleeding heart someone who shows too much sympathy (usually said to show you disapprove of their sympathy) Those bleeding heart socialists want to spend my taxes giving money to the unemployed. to break someone's heart 1. to make someone who loves you very sad, usually by telling them you have stopped loving them and want to break up with them She broke my heart when she ran off and married Mike. 2. to make someone feel very sad It broke her heart when she didn't get into university. to have a change of heart to change how your think or feel about something We were going to have a big party but he had a change of heart so we just had a few friends round instead. Bravery: Take heart Said when you want to encourage someone who is feeling defeated or is about to give up We've walked all day. Take heart, we're nearly there and we'll have a lovely meal when we finish.

to lose heart to give up or stop trying to do something They found the work too difficult and in the end, they lost heart. Honesty to bare your heart to tell someone your secret thoughts and feelings Don't bare you heart to him! He'll tell everyone. He can't keep a secret. from the bottom of your heart very sincerely, very honestly I promise to love you forever and I mean that from the bottom of my heart. Cross my heart (and hope to die) you say this to show that what you have just said or promised is completely true I did see them and they were kissing! Cross my heart! in your heart of hearts what you think is true in your most secret thoughts She said she didn't steal the money but in my heart of hearts I knew she was lying. Vocabulary What's on your mind? What are you worried about? neglecting not looking after something or someone that's your responsibility to get back on the right track to return to a way that will bring good results to get over it to feel better after something or someone has made you unhappy to distract you from to help you not to think about something unpleasant not unless it's true don't say something if it's not how you really feel or it isn't true (here, Professor Lewis means "Don't say that you're OK if you really aren't OK")

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Linking words 2

Linking words and phrases Linking words and phrases are used to show relationships between ideas. They can be used to join two or more sentences or clauses (a clause is a group of words which contains a subject and a verb). Linking words/phrases can be used to structure ideas, add ideas together, point out similarities between ideas or generalise about them. Structuring ideas First, firstly, first off (informal), to begin with, second, secondly, then, lastly and finally are used to show the structure or flow of ideas. First, I'd like to show this new product to you. Second, I'd like to point out the advantages of it. First off, I've got nothing to wear and secondly, I don't even want to go to the party! First, we'll listen to your presentation, then we'll discuss in detail.Finally, we'll answer any questions you may have about working here. Adding ideas and information Moreover (formal), furthermore (formal), on top of that (informal) and another thing is (informal) are used to give more information or ideas. The delivery was more than three weeks late. Moreover the clock was damaged when we finally received it. We choose them as suppliers because they are fast and reliable.Furthermore they're the cheapest. I had to buy a dress, some shoes, a present and all the shops were about to close. On top of that I had a splitting headache and my son wouldn't stop crying! I've got so much to do before we go to the party. Another thing is, I don't even know how we'll get there.

Highlighting similarities Similarly, in the same way and just as are used to show similarities between ideas. All of these linking devices are quite formal. It's difficult to find staff to work during July. Similarly finding reliable staff in December is hard. My mother brought me up to believe that I could do any job I wanted.In the same way I've brought my children up to be just as confident about their abilities. Just as Shakespeare is famous for his plays, Dickens is famous for his novels. Generalising ideas On the whole, in general, in all/some/most/many cases, and by and large are all used to make a generalisation - to say that you think something is generally or mostly true. On the whole, the film was very good. I think she writes great books in general but I didn't like her last one. In most cases you can have the time off but you have to check with the boss first. By and large she likes working there but doesn't like the long commute every day. Vocabulary sweet (adj) kind, nice to talk about Helen behind her back to gossip about Helen when Helen can't hear what I'm saying about her down in the dumps (informal) sad or depressed 108

Fear vocabulary

Vocabulary of fear

We can talk about things that frighten us by using these words:scare, fright, terrify and fear. To be scared/frightened/terrified of + noun Alice is scared of heights. He's frightened of spiders. They're terrified of exams. Passive form: Heights scare Alice. Dogs terrify me. Loud noises always frighten him. To get a fright She gets a fright every time she hears a dog bark. I got such a fright when I saw the mouse. To have/have got a fear of + noun I've a real fear of speaking in public. He's got a fear of horses. Phobias The word 'phobia' comes from the Greek for 'fear'. In English we can make words with the 'phobia' at the end to describe types of fears. These phobias are nouns. "She suffers from arachnophobia. If she even sees a picture of a spider, she starts crying". The noun to describe the person with a phobia is phobic. For example, "He can't go in lifts because he's claustrophobic". acrophobia fear of heights arachnophobia fear of spiders agoraphobia fear of open or public spaces claustrophobia fear of closed or small spaces We can also talk about people's prejudices in terms of what or who they are afraid of: homophobia fear of homosexuals technophobia fear of new things (especially technology) xenophobia

fear of foreign people or people who are different from me Expressions and idioms of fear To talk about when something or someone gives you a fright, you can use these expressions: To scare the living daylights out of someone I thought I was the only one in the house so when he walked into the room, he scared the living daylights out of me. To get the fright of your life I got the fright of my life when she crept up behind me and shouted "Boo!" Vocabulary architecture style in which buildings are made sway move slowly from side to side acrophobia fear of heights 109

Animal vocabulary

Animal parts a paw: 1. an animal's foot The dog cut its paw on a piece of wire on the ground. 2. a person's hand (informal and humorous) Go and wash your mucky paws before we have dinner. a mane: 1. the long thick hair along the top of a horse's neck or around the face and neck of a lion

She brushes her horse's mane and tail until they gleam. 2. a person's thick long hair He's got beautiful flowing mane of black hair. whiskers: 1. the long, stiff hairs growing on an animal's face The cat cleaned the milk off his whiskers. 2. a moustache or the hair growing on a man's face (plural noun, oldfashioned and humorous) I hate it when his whiskers tickle me when he hugs me. Animal sounds, movements and actions cluck: 1. the sound a hen or chicken makes 2. express too much sympathy, anxiety or approval towards someone She's very overprotective. She clucks over her son the minute he starts crying. purr: 1. the sound a cat makes when it's contented 2. show your pleasure when speaking (in a sexy way) 'So open up your present and see what I got you' Marilyn Monroepurred. bark: 1. the sound a dog makes 2. shout at someone forcefully 'Attention! Right, left! Right, left!' The army sergeant barked. sting: 1. a small but painful injury, usually with a poison, that an insect makes by biting you 2. say something hurtful which upsets someone When she criticised his work, it really stung him. preen: 1. the way a bird cleans its feathers using its beak 2. feel very proud or satisfied with yourself because of something you've done or a quality you have She's very vain and spends hours preening herself in front of the mirror before she goes out. Animal idioms to be the cat's whiskers: to be better than everyone else He's thinks he's the cat's whiskers since he got promoted. to keep the wolf from the door to have just enough money to live on It's a low-paid job but she had to take it to keep the wolf from the door. to talk the hind legs off a donkey

to talk a lot for a long time He never stops! He could talk the hind legs off a donkey! to come home to roost to return and make trouble for you She didn't do any studying this term, just had a good time and went to loads of parties. Now the exams are here and it's all coming home to roost for her. Vocabulary limping walking unevenly because of injury or pain in the leg swelling becoming larger and rounder than usual antibiotics medicine that can destroy harmful bacteria twice a day two times every day 110

Confusing verbs

Come and go, bring and take In these pairs of verbs it's important to know if the action is going towards the speaker (or the person who is doing the action) or listener, or away from him or her. come and go come move from the speaker's location to the listener's location or from the listener's location to the speaker's location Do you want to come and watch TV at my house tonight? (To the speaker's location, at the speaker's house) What time did you come in to work this morning? (To the speaker's

and listener's location, at the work place, where the speaker and listener are)

go move from the speaker's or listener's location to another place I've got to go to the dentist. (Away from the speaker's location to another place, the dentist's) I'm going home now. (Away from the listener's location, to the speaker's home) bring and take bring move something or someone from the speaker's location to the listener's location or from the listener's location to the speaker's location Would you bring me a cup of tea please? (To the speaker's location) I'll bring the kids over to your house later. (To the listener's location, to the listener's house)

take move something from the speaker's or listener's location to another place Will you take this letter to the post office for me please? (From the speaker's location to another place, the post office) Khalid took the cat to the vet last week. (From the location of the person doing the action to another place, the vet's surgery) Borrow and lend Both these verbs mean giving or taking something for a short time. borrow take something from someone for a short time Would you mind if I borrowed your pen please? You can borrow my bike if you like. The children borrowed books from the library. lend give something to someone for a short time She lent him the DVD but he never gave it back. The library lends books to children. say and tell Both these verbs are used with direct and indirect speech.

say speak, concentrating on the words someone said and not usually used with an object pronoun. If we use an object pronoun, we need to add 'to', for example 'say to him' She said 'Have you met the new boss yet?' Janet Hall phoned to say she's got a job she thinks I might like. tell speak, concentrating on the content or the message of what someone said not necessarily the exact words that were said. We can use a personal pronoun with 'tell' He told us that his car was really expensive. (It's not clear the exact words he used but we know that his car cost a lot of money) She wouldn't tell me what it was. (We don't know the exact words she used but we know that Janet wouldn't let Tim know what the job was) Vocabulary did make it was successful in something (here, going up to the top of the Eiffel Tower) Did you manage? Were you able to? guardian angel a spirit who is believed to protect and help someone. Here, Tim means that Janet is like this spirit 111

Phrasal verbs - up and down

Phrasal verbs - up 'Up' often has a meaning of continuing or completing something Keep something up: Continue without stopping or changing

Janet said to Tim 'It's important to keep your spirits up'. You're doing very well. Keep up the good work. Tidy something up: Make a place clean and ordered, especially by putting things back where they usually belong Her mum said 'Go and tidy up your bedroom. It's a mess!' I need to tidy up the kitchen before I start making the dinner. 'Up' can also have a meaning of starting something or arranging something Show up: Arrive, especially late or unexpectedly, in order to join a group of people I waited for them for half an hour but they never showed up. I hadn't seen him for years and then he suddenly showed up at my house. Open up something: Start a new business Tim would love to open up a little shop. They're opening up a new restaurant in town. Do you want to try it? Take up something: Start doing something (a hobby, sport or activity) They took up golf after they retired. He took up stamp collecting only a few months ago and already has more than 400 stamps. Phrasal verbs - down 'Down' often has a meaning of getting less Slow down: Go more slowly Slow down! You're driving too fast! Now that you've retired you need to slow down and relax a bit more. Calm down: Become calmer or make someone calmer Don't panic. There's still time to buy her a present. Calm down! I know I need to calm down about it but it's difficult not to get angry when he blasts out his loud music every morning. Cut down on something: Do less of something (for example, eating, drinking) She's trying to cut down on cigarettes. She used to smoke 20 a day and now she only smokes four. The doctor says I need to cut down on the amount of coffee I drink. Turn something down: Make the power (volume or heat, for example) less Turn that music down. It's too loud. It's so hot in here. Would you mind turning down the heating please? Turn something or someone down: Reject someone or something They turned me down for the job. I was really disappointed not to get it. He asked her to marry him but she turned him down. She said she didn't really love him.

Vocabulary keeping yourself busy making the time pass by doing something (not necessarily paid work) to get motivated to be enthusiastic about something (here, about the possibility that Tim will get a job soon) to keep your spirits up to feel happy or positive I've always seen myself as I've imagined myself as, I imagine that I am

112

Business vocabulary

Business people a businessman or a businesswoman a person who works in their own business or is a manager in a company or organisation She's a very successful businesswomenwho runs her own company. an entrepreneur: a person who starts his or her own business He's a real entrepreneur. As soon as he's set up one business successfully, he's looking for his next challenge. a self-made man or a self-made woman: a person who is rich and successful because of his or her own work He came from quite a poor background. But he's a self-made manand is now incredibly wealthy. a magnate, a mogul, a tycoon or a baron: a person who is in charge of a big business or who owns a lot of businesses. Here are some of the industries and business which collocate (go with) with these words: a shipping magnate

a movie/media/industry mogul a business/property/shipping tycoon a press/media/drugs baron self-employed: work for yourself, not for someone else She hated working for her last boss so she decided to start her own business and loves being self-employed now. Business places an office: a room or part of a building in which people work, especially sitting at tables with computers, telephones, etc. He doesn't like working in an office all day. He'd rather be out and about meeting people. an open-plan office: an office which has few or no walls inside, so it is not divided into smaller rooms. An office where a lot of people all work together We work in a huge open-plan office so it's difficult to have any privacy. head quarters (HQ): the main offices of an organization or a business Microsoft's HQ is in Washington in the USA. Types of work and ways of working a full-time job: work that you do for the whole of the normal working week She's got two kids but still manages to hold down a full-time job. a part-time job: work that you do for only part of the normal working week He has a part-time job in a shop and spends the other two days a week working on his art projects. a permanent job: work that doesn't finish after a fixed period of time She was lucky to get a permanent job in teaching. Now she has a job for life, if she wants. a temporary job or a fixed-term contract: work that finishes after a fixed period of time I've got a temporary job for 4 weeks with the Post Office over the busy Christmas period. flexible working or flexi-working: when you are allowed to choose what time you start and finish your work and how many hours you do each day (as long as you do the required numbers of hours in a week) They let me do flexi-working so I can come in late some mornings and just work a bit later in the afternoon. It's really handy when I have to drop the kids off at school.

Vocabulary retiring stopping work because you are a certain age (65 years old in Britain, for example) heading off to the sun going to a country with a warm climate to take over the reins to take responsibility for, or control of, something from someone else 113

Make and do

'Make' and 'do' are two verbs with similar meanings. Make - creating, building, constructing We often use 'make' to talk about creating things: Let's make a cup of tea. She makes her own clothes. Helen said 'I need to make a start'. Do - indefinite activities We often use 'do' when we don't say exactly what activity we're talking about: What do you want to do? She did something really strange. He's so lazy. He just sits around all day, doing nothing. Do - working and jobs We often use 'do' when we're talking about work and jobs: What do I do? I'm a teacher. Have you done your homework? He's doing the ironing just now.

Do ... ing We often use 'do â&#x20AC;Śing' when we're talking about activities that take a certain amount of time or that are repeated (like jobs or hobbies): He wants to do some reading at the weekend. She's gone to the supermarket to do the shopping. He does the crossword every morning. Some fixed expressions with 'make' an attempt a trial, an effort at doing something Don't give up on your homework so easily. At least make an attemptat it. He made a brave attempt at running the marathon but didn't manage to finish it. an effort the activity needed to achieve something She always makes an effort when we go to visit her. She bakes a cake or something nice like that. Make an effort and at least try to look busy when the boss comes in today! a mess something that looks untidy You've made a real mess in the kitchen! I hope you're going to tidy it up. He made a right mess of the report. He'll have to write the whole thing again. an exception someone or something that is not treated according to the usual rules We don't usually allow visitors but because you've travelled so far we'll make an exception. The teacher made an exception and let me hand in my essay late. Some fixed expressions with 'do' your hair/make-up hairstyle, lipstick and cosmetics I need to do my hair before we go out. She always does her make-up before leaving the house. your best the most effort It doesn't matter if you fail or not, just as long as you do your best. She did her best in the competition and won the gold medal. 50 miles per hour (mph)/ kilometres per hour (kph) speed something can travel at The car can do up to 200 kph The new motorbike can do more than 175 miles per hour a favour a kind action Would you mind doing me a favour and posting this letter for me?

Do us a favour, will you and close the door? Vocabulary a ton of a lot of You've been a million miles away You haven't been concentrating on what you should have been concentrating on because you have been thinking about something else knuckle down (informal) start working or studying hard gave me a good talking to spoke angrily to me because I had done something wrong gruesome unpleasant or shocking 114

Animals vocabulary

Domestic pets are animals that people keep in their homes as companions. Farm animals are animals that people keep for their meat, milk or other products (such as wool). Wild animals are ones which aren't tame, they live in their natural habitat, for example, in the jungle and are often very dangerous. Birds are winged animals which lay eggs. Some birds and wild animals are also farm animals (chickens, kangaroos and deer, for example). Domestic pets General name Male

Female

Young

cat

tomcat

cat or queen

kitten

dog

bitch

puppy

General name Male

Female

Young

cow

bull

cow

calf

goat

buck or billy

doe or nanny

kid

Farm animals

horse

stallion

mare

foal

sheep

buck or ram

ewe

lamb

General name Male

Female

Young

lion

lioness

cub

deer

buck or stag

doe

fawn

kangaroo

jack

jill

joey

General name Male

Female

Young

chicken

cockerel

hen

chick

duck

drake

duck

duckling

goose

gander

goose

gosling

Wild animals

Birds

Vocabulary paw the foot of an animal which has claws or nails, for example a cat, dog or bear tomcat male cat sore painful I've learnt my lesson I did something wrong and know not to do it again 115

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Idioms with 'eyes'

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. If you can 'do something with your eyes closed', it means you know something very well and can do it without really concentrating (the metaphorical meaning) not that you actually close your eyes while you are doing something (the literal meaning). Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say 'She's got eyes in the back of her head' to mean that she is very aware of what's going on around her but you can't say 'She's got eyes in the back of her hands'. Idioms with 'eye' to turn a blind eye: to ignore something that you know is wrong The professor decided to turn a blind eye to what John had done. to have eyes in the back of your head: to know everything and be aware of everything that is happening around you: She's a primary school teacher so she needs to have eyes in the back of her head when she's looking after 25 seven year-olds. to see eye to eye: to agree with or to have the same opinions as someone else We're really good friends but we just can't see eye to eye on politics. to see something out of the corner of your eye: to see something but not clearly because it happens to the side of you or just out of your line of vision He screamed when he thought he saw a spider out of the corner of his eye. to pull the wool over someone's eyes: to try to deceive someone to stop them finding out something Don't try to pull the wool over my eyes. You weren't sick at all. Your mum told me you went to the football match yesterday. to keep your eyes peeled to watch out for something or someone carefully I know my keys are here somewhere. Keep your eyes peeled for them, will you? to be more to someone/something than meets the eye

to find it more difficult to understand someone or something than you first thought it would be The new boss seems very boring but since I saw her at that party on Saturday night, I'm sure there's more to her than meets the eye. Idioms with 'eyebrows' and 'eyelids' not to bat an eyelid (this expression is always used in the negative) to show no sign of surprise or worry when something unexpected or strange happens And then, even when my trousers split, she still didn't bat an eyelid. It raised a few eyebrows (this expression is usually used in the passive) show surprise or worry when something unexpected or strange happens It raised a few eyebrows when he said he was marrying someone 20 years younger than him. Vocabulary a turnaround a change from one thing to its opposite you're desperate to tell me you really want to tell me knuckle down (informal) start working or studying hard indiscretion something which you did wrong and wanted to keep secret but which someone else found out about put the kettle on to fill a pot with water and boil it (usually to make tea) 116

Spelling - plural nouns

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What's next? The most common way of making nouns plural is to add 's' or 'es'

(book, books, box, boxes). Here some other rules about the spelling of plural nouns. Nouns ending consonant + y baby → babies lady → ladies

city butterfly

→ bushes → boxes

church → church buzz → buzz

There are some nouns ending in -o category: tomato → tomatoes potato → potato hero

→ heroes

volcano → volcano

But most nouns ending in -o don't fall into this category: photo → photos piano → piano Eskim → Eskimos radio → radio o Nouns ending -f or -fe calf wolf

→ →

calves wolves

half life

→ →

Note: the plural of roof → can be roo Uncountable singular nouns ending -s Normally there are no plurals of these nouns: athletics

mathematics

news

politics

Plural nouns These nouns have no singular versions: trousers

clothes

thanks

congratulations

Other nouns with irregular plurals The examples below have unusual mouse tooth

→ mice → teeth

child woman

Go back

→ cit → butterfl

Nouns ending -sh, -ch, -s, -x, or -z bush box

The quiz

→ children → women

The episode Download this page More on this topic

Vocabulary DIY Short for do-it-yourself (do tasks around the home or garden rather than pay someone to do the work for you) I had the flat to myself no-one else was in the flat except me checked with asked that it's OK or asked permission from someone give someone the thumbs up tell someone it's OK to do something, show you approve of something

117

Sentence beginnings

In informal, spoken English we often drop unstressed beginnings of sentences. For example, Alice said "Exhausted" rather than the fuller, more formal "I'm exhausted". She also said "Just finished another long shift" rather than "I've just finished another long shift". Some typical unstressed words include: articles: Baby's crying. = The baby's crying. Teacher's coming. = The teacher's coming. Do you want a pen or a pencil? Pen please. = (I want) a pen please. possessives: What's wrong? Bike was stolen. = His bike was stolen. What colour is her bag? Black = Her bag is black.

Boyfriend's coming round tonight. = My boyfriend's coming round tonight auxiliary verbs and be: See what we mean? = Do you see what we mean? Is he French or Italian? Italian. = He is Italian. Got a light? = Have you got a light? demonstratives: Room's a mess = This room's a mess. Shoes look fab. = These shoes look fab. Driver's an idiot! = That driver's an idiot! introductory 'there is': Nobody here = There's nobody here. Something weird going on. = There's something weird going on. Someone at the door. = There's someone at the door. personal pronouns: Where's Barry? Must be late. = He must be late. Have to go now. = I have to go now. Don't know = I don't know. Vocabulary avoid try not to see someone or spend time with him or her I've got such a lot on There are a lot of things I have to do. I'm very busy juggling arranging your time so that you can involve yourself in two or more different activities half-term a school holiday in Britain half way through the term. For example, a week's holiday from school in October (half-way between the summer and Christmas holidays) give you a hand help you 118

Take and have

We use the verbs 'have' and 'take' a lot in English, especially if we're speaking or writing informally. For example, Henry the cafe owner said "having a bit of bad luck", "take a deep breath" and "having a go at". Here some other groups of words that use 'have' and 'take': speaking: Let's have a chat. Do you mind if I have a word with you? I need to have a conversation with my boss about taking holidays next week. We had a terrible argument and now she's not speaking to me. Go on, have a guess. What you do think happened next? Take a guess. You'll never believe what she said after that. experiencing something: He had cancer for years before he died. Did you have measles when you were a child? She had an accident at work. Tim has had a bit of bad luck recently. They had a run of really good luck last year. We had loads of fun at the beach. They had a miserable time on holiday. The weather was awful and hotel was dirty. I always have a nap in the afternoon and then I wake up feeling really refreshed. doing physical actions: I'm going to take a bath. She has a shower in the morning. I'm taking my driving test next week. You need to take this medicine three times a day for the next two weeks. He takes the bus to work. Do you want to have a game of tennis next week?

Vocabulary key important graft work a trait a particular characteristic that can produce a particular type of behaviour make a bob or two make some money, make a small profit

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Emphasising with 'do'

We can use the auxiliary verb 'do' to add emphasis. For example, Paul said "I do want to spend some quality time with Jake" to show how strongly he feels about this. We can also show contrast with 'do'. For example, we can contrast what was expected with what actually happened by saying, 'The food was cheap as anything but it did taste fantastic.' We form this emphasis or contrast with 'do' or 'did'+ base verb. For example, "I do want to spend some quality time with Jake". Contrasting and comparing with 'do': 1. We can show contrast between something that's true and something that's false: She does know how to swim, she just doesn't want to go swimming with you! He says he didn't steal the book but I saw him. He did steal it. 2. We can show contrast between a general rule and an exception: I don't like sports very much but I do love watching tennis. She doesn't eat meat or fish but she does eat eggs. 3. We can show contrast between how something looks and how it really is: She makes ice-skating look easy but she does practise every day for hours.

They fight like cat and dog but deep down they really do love each other. 4. We can show compare what is expected with what actuallyhappens: He said he was going to fail his exam and, sure enough, he did fail! She thought she wouldn't like the museum but she really did enjoyherself there. Showing emphasis with 'do': I do want to spend some quality time with Jake I do apologise for being so late. He does bake very good cakes, doesn't he? We did enjoy your party very much. She does love her new house. No wonder she wanted to give you the full tour Ask Polly. She does know a lot about politics. Vocabulary Here's to holidays Let's hope that the holidays will be fun ('Here's to something' is used to wish for something and said just before drinking) days off days when you don't have to work enthusiastic looking forward to, excited or interested in something quality time time that you spend with your partner or children doing things together so that your relationship stays strong and close mend a few bridges become friends again after a misunderstanding or fight 120

Finance vocabulary

People who work in finance a teller / a bank teller / a cashier: a person who works behind the counter in a bank and who deals with customers You have to queue up and then go to ask the teller if you want towithdraw a big amount of cash. a manager / a bank manager: a person who manages the staff in a bank and who interviews customers when they want a special service (for example, a loan or overdraft) Tim went to see the bank manager because he wanted a businessloan. a financial adviser: a person who gives you advice about how to invest your money or on the best ways to save money His grandmother gave him ÂŁ1000 so he went to see a financial adviser to hear her recommendations about what to do with it. Banking products and services a savings account: an account in a bank which earns interest for customers who save with the bank I've had a savings account since I was 16. a joint account: a bank account that more than one person share together We have a joint account for the household bills but we have separate savings accounts. a credit card: plastic (uncountable, informal): a small plastic card which can be used to buy goods and service. The money is taken from you at a later time when the credit card company sends you a bill I don't know how I'd survive without my credit card. I always have to put a few things on plastic in the week before pay-day. ATM / cashpoint: (short for automatic teller machine). A machine that lets you withdraw money from your bank account. ATMs are usually in banks, as well as in other places, and are open 24 hours a day I'll just go to the ATM and get some money and then I'll meet you at the restaurant. She got some money out of the cashpoint to pay for lunch. PIN: (short for personal identity number) a secret number which you can use with your credit card or bank account card to take money from an ATM The police officer told me that using 1234 as my PIN was stupid because it's the first number a thief would try if my cards got stolen. Finance verbs and adjectives: borrow: get something (here, money) from someone which must be repaid at a later time

I had to borrow a lot of money when I bought a new car last year. lend: give money which must be repaid at a later time The bank lent him ÂŁ10,000 so he could improve his kitchen. save: keep money rather than spending it She always saves at least 10% of her salary. She says she's saving it for when she is older. invest: put money into something to make a profit She invested in personal computers in the early 80s and is very rich now. withdraw: take money out of an account I need to go to the bank at lunchtime and withdraw some cash to pay for my holiday. overdrawn (adj): having taken more money out of your bank account than the account actually has (usually you have to agree this arrangement with the bank before you take the money out) He's always overdrawn by the end of the month. He never saves anything. Vocabulary reliable dependable, if a person is reliable you can believe they will do the things they promise to do proposal plan or idea I'll get back to you I will contact you balance the amount of money you have in a bank account, or the amount you owe on a credit card bill

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Need to and Needs-ing

We use 'need' to talk about things we think are necessary to do. We can use two different structures - need / needs to and need / needs -ing Need to We use this form when we want to talk about something that's necessary for someone to do. We usually mention who is going to do it. For example: "I need to go to the dentist" means "It's necessary for me to visit the dentist". We form this structure with: subject

need or needs to

verb

Ellie

needs to

practise

Alice

needs to

wear a uniform

They

need to

go shopping

need to

post the letters

We form the negative with: subject

don't or doesn't need to

verb

Paul

doesn't need to

take Ellie riding

She

doesn't need to

drive

don't need to

pay to go to the park

They

don't need to

buy a present

Need -ing We can use this form when we want to talk about something that is necessary for someone to do. We don't have to say who is going to do it. For example, when the instructor said "Dusty needs untacking" she meant "The horse needs to be untacked by you, Ellie". This is a passive structure where the usual subject + verb + objectform changes to object + need + verb+ing. We form this structure with: object

need or needs

verb+ing

The horse

needs

untacking

The house

needs

tidying

The stables

need

mucking out

These letters

need

posting

We form the negative with: object

don't or doesn't need

verb + ing

The car

doesn't need

washing

The plant

doesn't need

watering

The stables

don't need

painting

The horses

don't need

feeding

Vocabulary halt (formal) stop dismount get off something you ride (for example, a horse or a bike) enough of the love-fest (informal, here used sarcastically) stop being so loving to each other untack (specialised horse vocabulary) take off the saddle and other pieces equipment that are used for riding a horse a stable a building where horses are kept mucking out (specialised animal vocabulary) cleaning out the horse stables 122

Horse vocabulary

Horse colours Some of the most common colours for horses are: bay: the body ranges from light reddish-brown to very dark brown. It has a black mane, tail and lower legs

chestnut: the body is reddish and its mane and tail are not black but are the same shade or lighter than the body gray: the body is black with white or mixed dark and white hairs When we're talking about horses we say "a chestnut" or "a bay", rather than "a bay horse" or "a chestnut horse". Horse movements These verbs describe how a horse moves, in order of speed, from slow to fast walk: when a horse moves at about 6 kph, generally with only one foot off the ground at any one time trot: when a horse moves at about 12 kph. Each diagonal pair of hooves (a front foot and the back foot on the opposite side) hit the ground at the same moment canter: when a horse moves at about 16 kph in a three-beat way, followed by a rest, followed by three beats again gallop: when a horse moves at about 100 kph The gallop is very like the canter, except that it is much faster and the three beats change to four. All four feet come off the ground together as the horse moves forward People who work with horses a groom: a person who takes care of and cleans horses a trainer: a person who trains and rides a horse and prepares it for races or other competitions a rider: a person who rides a horse a jockey: a person who rides horses in races. The races can either be on flat race tracks or with hurdles and hedges to jump over a show jumper: a person who rides horses in competitions where horses have to jump over fences in an arena a farrier: a person who makes horseshoes (metal plates) for horses' feet Vocabulary

coat hair, wool or fur covering an animal groom (verb) clean a horse (usually by brushing its coat) smart clever told me off spoke angrily to me because I had done something wrong mucking out (specialised animal vocabulary) cleaning out the horse stables

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Expressions with 'hand' 2

Background There are lots of English expressions, idioms and proverbs which refer to hands. For example, Khalid says "I really like working with my hands" which means he likes making or repairing things. Helen's dad says "I could really use another pair of hands" which means he would like someone (Khalid) to help him. Here's a selection of some common expressions ones about being experienced, things that are old, and having or not having money. Experienced to be a dab hand at something to be very good at doing something She's a dab hand at cooking. She can whip up a meal without even looking at a recipe. to be an old hand to be very experienced at doing something You should ask your mother for help. She's an old hand when it comes to making clothes. to try your hand at something

to attempt doing something for the first time I might try my hand at painting this weekend. to turn your hand to something to be able to do something well although not having any experience of it before Bill's great at decorating - he could turn his hand to anything. to know something like the back of your hand to know something very well He's been driving that route for years now. He knows it like the back of his hand. Old (not new) second hand (adj) not new. Used or owned by someone before I don't mind buying second hand books but I could never wear somebody's old clothes. hand-me-down (adj) hand-me-downs (noun) clothing that's not new. It's been used or owned by someone (usually family or close friends) before I had five older sisters and we were quite poor so my mum often made me wear hand-me-downs. Money to cross someone's hand/palm with silver (humorous) to give someone money (usually so that they will tell you what will happen to you in the future) They say she has special powers and if you cross her hand with silver she'll tell you if you'll get married or not when you're older. to live from hand to mouth to have just enough money to live on, with nothing extra When I was a student I didn't have much money so I lived from hand to mouth till I graduated. to put your hand in your pocket to give money to someone or to charity (organizations that collect money to give to poor people, ill people, etc.) Don't be mean! Put your hand in your pocket and give me some money for the boss's birthday present. to go cap in hand to someone to ask someone in a polite and sincere way for something (usually money or forgiveness) The artist went cap in hand to all the galleries begging them to display her work. Vocabulary practical be able to make repairs or to do things with your hands in a skilful way suits us convenient for us

tenants people who live in rented accommodation. For example, The Flatmates are tenants of Helen's dad (who's the landlord) 124

All and everyone

Words like 'all' and 'everyone' are similar but aren't used in exactly the same ways. Helen said "What does everyone want to do?" With the same meaning she could have said "What do all of us want to do?" but not "What do all want to do?" All and everybody / everyone All and everyone or everybody can't be used interchangeably

Everybody loves ice-cream. Everybody has gone to the party.

All loves ice-cream. All has gone to the party.

We say all of you/ us / them but not everybody of or everybody of

All of them are French.

Everybody of French.

All of us are students.

All of everybody are students.

All and everything Sometimes we can use all and everything in expressions like theseinterchangeably: all he can / everything he can all we need / everything we need all you want / everything you want We'll do everything we can to help you enjoy your stay with us. We'll do all we can to help you enjoy your stay with us. We can't use all on its own:

She thinks she knows everything.

She thinks she knows all.

He knows everyone there.

He knows all there.

But you can use all with about: They know all about fashion. He knows all about modern art. We use call all (but not everything) to mean the only thing/s:

All he likes is football.

Everything he likes is football.

All I've bought is a pair of jeans.

Everything I've bought is a pair of jeans.

Every / everybody / everyone / everything: These words are singular so we use singular verbs with them: Everyone has to work late on Thursday. Every ticket was sold within half an hour. But you can also use plural pronouns after everyone / everybody Everyone said they wanted to go. or Everyone said he or she wanted to go. Vocabulary it won't be long till soon pick take or choose a tenner (informal, British currency) ten pounds 125

Possessions

There are lots of different ways of talking about possessions or things that belong to you. For example, Alice said 'Tim this one's for you' and Tim said 'Helen here's yours'. Apostrophes We can show that something belongs or is owned by some by usingan apostrophe (') plus the letter s: A child's plastic pony. It's Bill's house. It's the boy's dog. = one boy and one dog They're the boys' dogs. = more than one boy and more than one dog Mine / Yours /His / Hers We can use these pronouns to show possession: Is that Bill's coat? No, it's mine. = It's my coat. Is this pen mine or yours? = my pen or your pen Neither, it's hers. = her pen Whose? It's Molly's pen. We can also use these pronouns in this way: He's a friend of mine. = my friend She's a colleague of his. = his colleague That was a great book of yours you lent me. = your book Note: We don't use apostrophes with these pronouns:

It's her's

It's hers

They're your's

They're yours

It's their's

It's theirs

My own / your own / his own / her own We can use my / your / his / her before own to show that somethingbelongs only to me/you/ her etc and not shared with anyone else: This is all my own work. No-one helped me with it. After sharing a flat for years, she was glad to buy her own house.

We shared our first car with my parents-in-law but we've got our own car now. We can also use this structure to talk about things we do by ourselves rather than having someone else do them for you. He can't afford to go to the hairdressers so he just cuts his own hair. She's got a sewing machine and makes her own clothes. Vocabulary separate different material cloth, for example, cotton, nylon or denim, an apron something you wear to protect your clothes while you are cooking 126

Painting vocabulary

Types of paint and colours undercoat: a type of paint that you put on walls first, before you apply a layer of colour. You often use undercoat if you want to paint over a dark coloured wall with a lighter colour. Undercoat is usually white or cream. We need to put some undercoat on this red wall if we don't want the white paint to end up looking pink! matt: a type of paint that is not shiny Do you want matt or gloss paint? gloss: a type of paint that has a shiny or smooth appearance I don't want this wall to have a dull finish. I think gloss paint will work much better than matt. a primary colour: red, yellow or blue. These colours can be mixed together in different

ways to make any other colour Children often like bright primary colours but I like more subtle colours. a pastel colour: a pale and soft colour (light pink or yellow, for example) My teenager daughter wants her bedroom decorated in pastel shades of pink and lilac. earth tones: rich dark colours which contain some brown I want strong primary colours but he's more into browns and oranges and all those earth tones. Equipment we use with paint a brush / a paintbrush: a tool with short pieces of stiff hair, plastic or wire attached to a wooden or plastic handle, which is used for painting We need a thick brush for the walls and then a small one for around the light switch. a roller: a tool which has a sponge cylinder attached to a wooden or plastic pole which is used for painting walls, large or high areas We'll need to use the roller to paint the ceiling. paint stripper: liquid used to remove old paint from wooden surfaces (for example, doors) First we'll use the paint stripper to get rid of all the old paint, then we'll redo the doors a lovely sky-blue gloss. a colour chart: a piece of paper or cardboard that shows small samples of different colours to help you choose which pot of paint to buy I don't know exactly what shade of blue to paint this room. Which blue on this colour chart do you think looks best? Painting idioms and expressions to paint a rosy / bleak picture: to describe something in a particular way, either very positively (rosy) or negatively (bleak) The boss painted a rosy picture of the firm's future, saying it would be making bigger and bigger profits over the next 10 years. She always paints such a bleak picture. She's so sure that global warming, wars and famine are the only things in store for all of us. to paint the town / to paint the town red: to go out and enjoy yourself, (often drinking alcohol, dancing and having a good time) usually to celebrate something When she heard that she'd passed all her exams, she went out with her friends and painted the town red. She didn't get home till 3 in the morning! to watch paint dry (usually used humorously): used to talk about an activity that you think is very boring I'd rather watch paint dry than play computer games. They're so

boring! Vocabulary porous something that has a lot of small holes, so liquid (for example, paint) can pass through, especially slowly a painter and decorator someone who works painting and improving the appearance of people's houses a project manager someone who works as the overall manager of a piece of work or project (which usually involves a team of workers and a budget of money and resources) 127

Whoever and whatever

When we want to say that something or someone doesn't matter or isn't important we can use '-ever' at the end of certain words (whoever, wherever, whatever, however). We can also use these words when we're talking about a particular person or thing but we don't know their name. When the shop assistant said 'Just get the receipt from whoever gave you the gift' he meant 'I don't know who gave you the gift but get the receipt from that person'. whoever We can use whoever to mean: 1. it doesn't matter who Whoever you are, you still have to obey the rules. I'm sure you'll be very happy whoever you marry. Just be sure you marry for love. Whoever you are, you'll love this new film. 2. any person who Whoever comes is welcome. The more the merrier! We've got lots of food so whoever is hungry can eat here. Whoever wants to come to the film should meet outside the cinema at 2 o'clock.

3. the person who Could I speak to whoever is in charge of customer service please? Whoever runs the fastest, wins the race. Just get the receipt from whoever gave you the gift.

whatever / wherever / whenever / however These words are used in a similar way to whoever: There's no point trying to explain my side of the story. Whatever I say you won't believe me. I don't mind if we go to the beach or a city on holiday. Wherever we go, we'll have fun. Whenever she has a coffee, she lights up a cigarette. She just can't stop eating chocolate however hard she tries. Whatever Recently 'whatever' has also come to mean 'Whatever you say is unimportant to me. I don't care'. It's often used to stop conversations. It's used mostly by young people, is slang and is sometimes regarded as impolite. Father: Are you going to tidy you room now? Daughter: Whatever. My mum said I had to study for your exams. And I was like 'whatever'. Present tense After these words which end in -ever, we use a present tense to talk about the future: Whatever university you go to, you'll enjoy yourself, I'm sure. Whichever dress you wear, you'll look gorgeous! However hard he tries, he can never cook a decent meal. Vocabulary receipt piece of paper you get from a shop as a record that you bought something there a refund money that a shop gives you back if you return something you bought there previously dreadful awful, not nice

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So and neither

We can use the words 'so' and 'neither' to show agreement and to save us having to repeat main verbs (buy, talk, study) or auxiliary verbs (be, have, can etc). So We can use 'so' to mean 'too' or 'also': Helen: I'm a student. Khalid: So am I. (= I too am a student.) Alice: I work in a hospital. Paul: So do I. (= I also work in a hospital.)

Neither 'Neither' is used in a similar way to 'so' but is used to show agreement with negative statements or ideas: She doesn't like coffee and neither do I. (= I don't like coffee either.) Helen can't speak French and neither can Tim. (= Tim can't speak French either.) Auxiliary verbs and main verbs There are two types of verbs we need to think about with 'neither' or 'so' - auxiliary verbs and main ones. In these examples, the person agreeing repeats the auxiliary verb(with the appropriate form of it): I have three brothers. So has she. He can't swim Neither can we. He's from Canada. So am I.

I must do my homework and so must you. Main verbs and auxiliary verbs In these examples, the first person uses a main verb (i.e. not an auxiliary verb) and the person agreeing uses the verb 'do' (and the appropriate form of it): She loves playing tennis. So does he. He doesn't work on a Saturday. Neither do we. He's from Canada. So am I. I didn't like that book Neither did I. Suppose so / Hope so / Afraid so We can also use 'so' in answers instead of longer 'that' clauses: Khalid: Are you ready to go? Tim: I suppose so. (= I don't want to go but I suppose that I am ready to go.) Teacher: Will you have finished your essay soon? Student: I hope so. (= I am looking forward to and expect that I will be finished soon.) Tourist: Excuse me. Is the museum is closed today? Tourist information officer: I'm afraid so madam. (= I'm sorry to tell you that the museum is closed today.) Vocabulary terrified very frightened taking over from starting to do a job or be responsible for something that another person did or had responsibility for before Chin up! something you say to someone in a difficult situation to encourage them to be brave and try not to be sad 129

Phrasal Verbs - in and on

Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or adverb), for example, 'in' or 'out', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually non-literal. For example, to chime means to ring (the bells chimed at 8 o'clock) but to chime in means to interrupt someone while s/he is speaking (And then he chimed in that he didn't want to go). However, the particles 'in' and 'on' are sometimes literal; there is often a connection with the physical meanings of these words. Phrasal verbs - in Dig in: Start eating something Alice said 'Dig in!' when she wanted Khalid to have a chocolate. Dinner's ready. Everyone dig in! Put something in / Put in something: Fix or install a large piece of equipment or system into a room or building so that it's ready to be used They've put new windows in and painted the outside of their house. The builders put new central heating in and our flat is so much warmer now. Fill something in / Fill in something: Complete a document by writing in the necessary information We had to fill in a lot of forms to get a loan from the bank. You need to fill this form in before you can get a refund. Call in: Visit someone or somewhere for a short time Don't forget to call in the next time you're in the area. We called in to see my aunt when we went to Manchester last month. Call someone in / Call in someone: Ask someone to come to help in a difficult situation They called in a new marketing team when they realised their advertising campaign wasn't working. The had to call in the detectives to help with the murder inquiry. Sink in: Start to believe what someone has said (usually something strange, unpleasant or surprising) When she said she wanted to divorce him, it didn't really sink in at first. It just hasn't sunk in yet that I won the competition. I don't believe it! Push in: Rudely join a queue of people, by moving in front of some of the people who are already there:

We were in the cinema queue when this guy came along and pushed in right in front of us. No pushing in! Just wait in line like everyone else please. Phrasal verbs - on Try on: Put clothes on for a short time to see they fit you I bought this skirt without trying it on. I hope it's OK. I'd like to try these shoes on please, in a size 7 if you've got them. Put something on / Put on something: Make or give something, especially for other people's benefit or for a special purpose They put on a wonderful lunch for us. We put on a great end of year show for the teachers. 'On' can also be used to talk about dependence: Count / Depend on someone: Rely on someone You can always count on her to help you if you have any problems. I'll be there for you. You know you can depend on me. 'On' can also be used to talk about something continuing: Pass something on / Pass on something: Give something to someone (usually after you have finished using it) Will you pass that book on to her when you've finished reading it? Their mother passes their old toys on to a charity when they've stopped playing with them. Vocabulary killer (informal) difficult a health nut someone who is very enthusiastic about a particular activity or thing (here, about healthy food, exercising and keeping fit) chewy used to describe food that you have to chew a lot before you swallow filling what a dentist uses to fill a cavity (or hole) in your tooth chocs (informal) short for chocolates 130

Abbreviations

Here are some common abbreviations we use in everyday life. Latin abbreviations There are some abbreviations we use in English that come from Latin. PS - post script (pronounced as individual letters - 'PS') We use this after we have signed a letter but then want to add some more information. Alice used this abbreviation when she had finished her note to Helen and then remembered she had something else to say. 'See you later, Alice. PS Help yourself to the chocolates' e.g. - exempli gratia which means 'for example' (pronounced as individual letters 'EG' or as two words 'for example' and it's always written in lower-case letters - e.g.) When auxiliary verbs (e.g. is, has, will, was) are used, they normally go between the auxiliary verb and the main verb. etc. - et cetera which means 'and other similar things' or 'and so forth' (pronounced as two words 'et cetera' and written in lower-case letters – etc.) Anyone in education – teacher, trainer, instructor, lecturer etc. – can benefit from reading this book. Political abbreviations All these abbreviations are pronounced as individual letters PM – Prime Minister The PM delivered a speech on education earlier today. MP – Member of Parliament MPs argued that the new law would benefit poor children and their parents. WHO –World Health Organisation The report from the WHO says that the health crisis could be averted with simple medicines and clean water. UN – United Nations The UN resolution was agreed by all the major countries so the UN peacekeepers will be going into the area next week. Computer abbreviations Although these abbreviations originally came from computing, they are now also used outside the computing world: FAQs – Frequently asked questions (pronounced as individual lettersFAQs ) New Employees: If you have any problems, consult the FAQs on our notice board. WYSIWYG – what you see is what you get (pronounced as one word – 'wysiwyg')

Originally used to describe an image on a computer screen that is exactly the same when it is printed on paper. Now used to mean there is nothing hidden or surprising about something you see or buy The food here is WYSIWYG. No surprises, down to earth, tasty and cheap. Other abbreviations These two abbreviations are pronounced as individual letters: EFL – English as a foreign language Khalid is studying business at college, as well as being an EFLstudent at a private school. TLC – Tender loving care This kitten has been abandoned. She needs a good home and someTLC. IOU – I owe you (a written promise to re-pay money that someone has loaned you) Here's an IOU. I'll pay you back the money next week, honest. These two abbreviations are pronounced as complete words: DINKIES – Double income, no kids (describes two working adults in a relationship who don't have any children) They've got plenty of money. They're DINKIES. NIMBY – Not in my backyard (I want something to happen but don't want it to happen near me) Everyone thinks the new airport will bring jobs here but they get allNIMBY about it when we ask where to build it. Vocabulary a note a short informal letter holding Khalid's hand support Khalid when he's very frightened or nervous the drill the electrical machine a dentist uses to put a filling into someone's tooth scrummy (informal) delicious stick to my New Year's resolution keep the promises I made to myself at New Year 131

Coffee vocabulary

Here is some vocabulary about the well-known drinks tea and coffee: Coffee coffee beans seeds from a coffee bush (which are ground or crushed to make coffee grinds which are used to make the drink coffee) white coffee coffee with milk black coffee coffee without milk skinny coffee coffee with skimmed (or low-fat) milk espresso a small measure of strong, dark coffee latte one measure of espresso and milk cappuccino one measure of espresso and hot, frothy milk (milk which is whipped until it forms lots of tiny bubbles) and often powdered chocolate on the top filter coffee coffee made by slowly pouring boiling water through crushed coffee beans in a coffee filter (thin paper which allows only the liquid to flow through, not the beans or the powder) instant coffee coffee made by adding boiling water to coffee powder (it is made very quickly because you don't need to filter the coffee) caffeine (uncountable) a chemical, found in coffee (and tea), which is a stimulant (something which makes people more active) decaffeinated coffee / decaf coffee coffee that has been treated so that the caffeine (a chemical substance in coffee or tea) has been removed strong / weak two adjectives used to describe coffee with a full flavour / lacking in flavour Tea

ordinary tea / plain tea / builders' tea dark tea that is commonly drunk in Britain (and Europe), made from leaves of the tea plant green tea lighter-coloured tea that is commonly drunk in China and Japan, made from leaves of the tea plant herbal tea tea made from dried or fresh flowers or leaves (usually this kind of tea has no caffeine in it) decaffeinated tea tea that has been treated so that the caffeine (a chemical substance in tea and coffee) has been removed Coffee verbs brew make a cup or pot of coffee (or tea) grind put coffee beans through a machine that crushes them into powder which can be used to make filter coffee, espresso, etc. Vocabulary I've got that straight I understand that now He's on easy street He's got an easy life with no difficulties or worries get my head around understand jargon special words and phrases which are used by particular groups of people, especially to do with their work

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Dental vocabulary

Here is some vocabulary related to dentistry and teeth People who work in dentistry a dentist a person whose job is treating and looking after people's teeth a receptionist a person who books appointments, greets patients and looks after the paper work of a dentist (or other business) a dental hygienist a person who works with a dentist and cleans people's teeth to keep them healthy an oral surgeon a doctor who works in a hospital and who operates on patients' mouths Keeping your teeth healthy floss clean the areas between your teeth using dental floss (a type of thread) to help stop plaque building up on your teeth You should floss between you teeth to keep your teeth healthy. clean/ brush use a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your teeth and gums I clean my teeth three times a day (once after each main meal). rinse with / use mouthwash put a special liquid into your mouth but spit it out instead of swallowing it. The liquid (mouthwash) helps keep your mouth clean and smelling fresh There was so much garlic in that pizza, I'll need to use a lot ofmouthwash if I've got any chance of kissing her! Problems with teeth plaque (noun, uncountable) a substance containing bacteria that forms on the surface of teeth If you don't brush your teeth properly and regularly, plaque will build up on them. decay (noun, uncountable) gradual damage over time She eats so many sweets and never goes to the dentist so it's no surprise she's got so much tooth decay.

a cavity a hole in a tooth (caused by decay) I've got to get a filling because I've got a cavity in one of my back teeth. Ways the dentist helps with dental problems a filling what a dentist uses to fill a cavity (or hole) in your tooth Khalid went to the dentist because his filling fell out and he needed to get another one. dentures / false teeth manufactured teeth fixed to a small piece of plastic or similar material, which fits inside your mouth, if you don't have your own teeth I always laugh when I see my granddad without his false teeth. He looks like a baby when he smiles and all you see is his gums. a bridge a piece of material that has one or more artificial (or false) teeth and which is kept in place by being attached to the natural teeth near the artificial one After she lost a tooth in an accident, she had a bridge put in. You couldn't tell which was her tooth and which one was the false one. a crown (noun) an artificial piece of material that is used to cover a damaged tooth When he chipped his front tooth, the dentist gave him a crown. crown (verb) put a cover over a damaged tooth He fell off his bike and broke both his front teeth. So he had to get them crowned. Vocabulary trauma very upsetting experience that causes someone to feel strong emotional shock or pain (often much later after the initial experience) terrified very frightened or scared change your mind make you have a different opinion to the one you had before dental history information about your previous visits to the dentist a filling what a dentist uses to fill a cavity (or hole) in your tooth

sugary things made from sugar, honey or other sweet ingredients

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Teeth vocabulary

Teeth enamel the hard white shiny substance which covers your teeth a molar one of the large teeth at the back of your mouth which you use for chewing food baby teeth the teeth that children have. These teeth fall out when children are about 5 or 6 years old and are replaced by permanent teeth a wisdom tooth one of the four teeth at the back of your mouth that are the last to grow in (usually they grow in during adulthood, long after the rest of your second set of teeth grow in during childhood) A tooth tale the tooth fairy In some cultures (e.g. America, Britain, Ireland) the belief that if children leave one of their baby teeth under their pillow, while they sleep, the tooth fairy will take it away and leave a gift of some money Teeth idioms and expressions fed up to the back teeth very bored, annoyed or disappointed, especially by something that you have been experiencing for a long time I'm fed up to the back teeth of hearing about her fabulous wedding. I just don't want to hear one more word about it.

get the bit between your teeth do what you have decided to do in a forceful and energetic way He said for ages that he didn't want to paint the living room but oncehe got the bit between his teeth, he really enjoyed it and had it all done in two days flat. lie through your teeth not tell the truth and know that what you are saying is completely false I know he's lying through his teeth about being ill but what can I do? I don't have any proof that he really isn't sick. (as rare as) hen's teeth very unusual or difficult to find In the middle of the summer finding cheap accommodation in the city is as rare as hen's teeth. have teething problems / troubles have problems at the beginning stages of something We had some teething problems in the early years of our marriage but after we really got to know each other, we settled down and were very happy with each other. by the skin of your teeth only just succeed in doing something He didn't get very good exam results and got into university by the skin of his teeth. a kick in the teeth (informal) be treated badly and unfairly by someone, especially at a time when you need his or her support It was a real kick in the teeth when he didn't get the manager's job. He'd worked so hard and had played golf with the boss every week. But in the end, he didn't even get an interview. Ways the dentist helps with dental problems a filling what a dentist uses to fill a cavity (or hole) in your tooth Khalid went to the dentist because his filling fell out and he needed to get another one. dentures / false teeth manufactured teeth fixed to a small piece of plastic or similar material, which fits inside your mouth, if you don't have your own teeth I always laugh when I see my granddad without his false teeth. He looks like a baby when he smiles and all you see is his gums. a bridge a piece of material that has one or more artificial (or false) teeth and which is kept in place by being attached to the natural teeth near the artificial one

After she lost a tooth in an accident, she had a bridge put in. You couldn't tell which was her tooth and which one was the false one. a crown (noun) an artificial piece of material that is used to cover a damaged tooth When he chipped his front tooth, the dentist gave him a crown. crown (verb) put a cover over a damaged tooth He fell off his bike and broke both his front teeth. So he had to get them crowned. Vocabulary No wonder It's not surprising moved on improved, got better nervous worried or anxious shake when your body makes quick short movements because you are nervous replace change for another one concentrate really hard think very intensely on one thing wiggle move up and down and/or from side to side with small quick movements

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Idioms with 'foot'

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. If you 'put

your best foot forward' you try as hard as you can (the metaphorical meaning), you don't actually decide that your left foot is better than your right foot and put that one in front when you walk (the literal meaning). Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say 'She has one foot in the grave' to mean that she is very old and very ill but you can't say 'She has one arm in the grave'. Idioms with 'foot' the shoe / boot is on the other foot: the situation is now the opposite of what it was, often because someone who was in a position of weakness now has power The boss didn't use to take her ideas seriously at all. But since she got that big contract, the shoe's on the other foot. Now he always listens to her ideas. to put your foot in it: to say something accidentally which embarrasses or upsets someone She really put her foot in it with Colin. She didn't know he'd failed his exams. to put your foot down: to say very strongly that something must be done in a certain way I thought mum would let me stay out late on Saturday night but shereally put her foot down and said I had to be home by 10.30. to get a foot in the door: to get a low level start in a business or organization, hoping that it will offer you the chance of something more successful later It's not a great job. But it's a foot in the door and he really wants to make his career in the TV industry. to wait on someone hand and foot: to do everything for someone so that they do not have to do anything for themselves You need to do some of the washing up here. It's not my job to wait on you hand and foot. to keep / have a foot in both camps to be involved with two groups of people who have different aims, opinions or interests The football manager used to be a player himself. He tries to keep a foot in both camps but it's difficult for him not to always agree with what the other managers say. to drag your feet to do something slowly with little enthusiasm because you don't want to do it There's no point dragging your feet. You'll have to tidy your room eventually. to get off on the wrong / right foot to make a successful / unsuccessful start in something We really got off on the wrong foot. The first time I met her, she lit up a cigarette, without asking if it was OK. We're the best of friends now but she knows she has to smoke outside! to land on your feet

to return to a good situation after having problems, particularly because of good luck rather than skill or hard work He isn't really qualified for the job, but he's landed on his feetbecause the boss likes him and is looking for someone to take over from him when he retires. to foot the bill to pay for something that is expensive or would usually be divided by a number of people We all went out for a meal and my dad said he'd foot the bill as a birthday treat for me. Vocabulary to babysit to look after to get my feet wet to start doing something for the first time to jump in to become involved in a situation very quickly (often without thinking about it first) at the coal-face doing the hardest part of a job (rather than overseeing or managing others doing it) an empire a large powerful group of companies run by one person

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Telephone language

Beginning phone conversations A: Hello, can I speak to Amanda please? B: Speaking (= This is Amanda speaking here). A: Hi, is Andy there? B: Hang on and I'll get him for you.

A: Good morning, can you put me through to your sales team please? B: Certainly. Just hold the line please. / I'll just put you on hold for a moment. A: Is that John? B: Who's calling please? A: It's Fiona. A: Hello Grace here. How can I help you? When someone is not available A: Hello, can I speak to Gina? B: I'm sorry she's not in. Can I take a message? A: Yes please. Can you tell her that I'll meet her at 7.30 not 8 at the cinema? A: Can I speak to Andy please? A: I'm sorry he's not at his desk. Would you like to leave a message? B: No that's OK, bye then. Talking to a receptionist or operator A: Can you put me through to Mark's office? B: I'm sorry the line's busy. Do you want to hold? A: No, I'll try again later. A: Can I have extension 397 please? B: I'll put you. It's ringing for you now. Ending a call A: I'm sorry he's not here right now. B: OK, I'll call back later. Bye A: Bye A: Well thanks for that. Bye then. B: Bye Phone verbs ring / phone / call Will you ring me tomorrow? Did anyone phone while I was out? She called you last night. make a call Do you mind if I use your phone to make a call please? call back phone someone after they have phoned you A: I'm sorry, he's not here just now. B: OK. I'll call back later. hang up end a phone call

And then she didn't even say 'goodbye', she just hung up. hang on wait on the phone for a short time A: Martin's busy right now. Do you want to hang on or call back later? B: I'll wait, thanks. Vocabulary a mystery something that's not clear home wrecker someone who has an affair (with a person who is married) and who breaks up a marriage because of it (makes the married person leave his/her partner) husband stealer someone who has an affair with a married man and makes him leave his wife

136

Phrasal verbs - health

Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or adverb), for example, 'in' or 'out', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually non-literal. For example, to throw means to send something through the air (He threw the pen to me) but to throw up means to vomit or be sick (She was really ill after eating that seafood and shethrew up). Phrasal verbs - illness come down with something: become ill with an illness that's not very serious I think I'm coming down with a cold. bring up something / bring something up: vomit The fish wasn't cooked properly. And as soon as she ate it, shebrought it up.

pack up: stop working or functioning He smoked so much for so many years it was no surprise when his lungs packed up. get over something: become better after being ill, recover from being sick When he gets over the flu, he'll go back to work. pass out: faint, lose consciousness The room was so hot and stuffy that he passed out. come round: become conscious again after fainting or being unconscious He fainted but came round again after we opened a window and got some fresh air into the room build your strength up / build up your strength: increase or become larger or stronger, or to make someone or something to do this: She's had the flu and hasn't eaten for days. She needs to build up her strength before she goes back to work. patch someone up: give basic medical care to someone that helps them temporarily When he cut himself on the broken glass, I patched him up before we took him to the hospital. Phrasal verbs - healthy life style put on weight / put weight on increase how much you weigh, to get fatter or heavier I really need to go on a diet. I put so much weight on over the holidays. take up something / take something up start doing an activity, hobby or job I'm going to take up tennis this summer. I've never played it before but I think I'll like it. cut out something / cut something out stop eating or drinking something, usually to improve your health He's cut out sweets and chocolates and has already lost quite a bit of weight. give up something / give something up stop doing something or using something that you were in the habit of doing or using, usually to improve your health I gave up meat 10 years ago and feel so much healthier now that I'm a vegetarian. Vocabulary his energy level back up increase the amount of energy or strength he has tease make someone think something is available (e.g. chocolate) when it's not

per chance maybe temptation something you want to do but know that you shouldn't because it's in some way bad my resolve crumbles my determination to do something weakens, is no longer strong put on a pound get any fatter (one pound is a unit of weight, equal to about 0.454 kilogrammes)

137

Animal vocabulary 3

Words we use to talk about animals (elephant, dog, horse etc.) can also have other meanings, either on their own or as part of compound words, phrases or idioms. Elephants: elephant in the corner a situation that no-one wants to talk about because it is awkward, difficult or embarrassing I know talking to your teenagers about sex is embarrassing but if we want fewer teenage pregnancies, we have to deal with this elephant in the corner. a white elephant something that has cost a lot of money but which isn't useful You paid how much for that white elephant? Are you mad? have a memory like an elephant able to remember things easily and for a long time He was rude to her in a meeting 5 years ago. But she's got a memory like an elephant and she's never forgiven him or forgotten about it. Cats: a fat cat

someone who has a lot of money, especially someone in charge of a company who has the power to increase their own salary I see the city fat cats have awarded themselves more huge bonuses this year. scaredy cat (usually a child's expression) someone, especially a child, who is easily frightened or scared of things that aren't usually very frightening Don't be such a scaredy cat. He's a friendly old dog. He won't bite you! look like something the cat brought/dragged in (informal) look very untidy and dirty What have you been doing in the garden? You look like something the cat dragged in. Dogs: top dog (informal) a person who is in a position of authority With his new promotion he's now the top dog around here. go to the dogs something (for example, a business or country) or someone becomes much less successful than it was in the past Bob's really gone to the dogs since he got divorced. He's not looking after himself properly at all these days. let sleeping dogs lie a warning that means someone shouldn't talk about a bad or negative situation that most people have already forgotten about I told him to let sleeping dogs lie but he started talking about the huge losses we made years ago and then the boss was really angry with him. Horses: dark horse a person who keeps his or her interests or ideas secret, especially someone who has a surprising ability, talent or skill Then she just got up and sang the most beautiful, haunting song I've ever heard. Who knew she was such a dark horse? hobby horse a subject that someone talks about frequently, usually for a long time (often about a subject that's boring to the other people listening) She stupidly asked him about his new diet and then he was on hishobby horse for the next 20 minutes. hold your horses (informal) used to tell someone to stop and consider their decision or opinion about something more carefully Now, just hold your horses, there! Have you really thought about this properly? Vocabulary:

making small talk chatting, talking about unimportant things tackled dealt with or faced and solved a problem implying talking about an idea or feeling without saying it directly harass say things or behave in a way that annoys or upsets someone tough difficult

138

Ordinal numbers

Cardinal numbers are numbers which represent amounts (e.g. 1, 2, 3) while ordinal numbers are the position of something in a list of items (e.g. 1st, 2nd, 3rd).

Cardinal numbers

Ordinal numbers

one

1st

first

two

2nd

second

three

3rd

third

four

4th

fourth

five

5th

fifth

six

6th

sixth

seven

7th

seventh

eight

8th

eighth

nine

9th

ninth

ten

10th

tenth

First:

first-born the first child born in a family Kate is our first-born. Jerry was born two years after her. first-time buyer a person who is buying a flat or house for the first time She's so excited about being a first-time buyer. She's looking forward to having a place of her own after living with her parents for so long. first come, first served the people who ask for something or are at the beginning of a queue, will be dealt with before other people who asked after or who are further down the queue We only have 200 tickets so we'll be giving them out on a first come, first served basis. first things first an expression we use to tell someone that the more important things should be done before less important things First things first, before you buy the ring, you have to ask her if she'll marry you! Second: second thoughts start to doubt or question what you believed to be true in the past Paul said 'It's just that Lucy's having second thoughts about the divorce'. second childhood when an older adult starts to behave like a child, (often because of mental weakness caused by old age) My grandfather was in his second childhood for the last years of his life. He was always talking to me as if we were both 5 years old. second wind a return of strength or energy that makes it possible to continue doing something that needs a lot of effort He felt really tired half-way through the race but when he saw the finish line he got a second wind and sprinted to the end. second nature to you something you are so familiar with it or that you can do easily without needing to think very much about it I used to find driving very difficult but now it's second nature to me. Third: give someone the third degree (informal) question someone very seriously and/or treat them roughly to get information She's only 14. So when Frank told me he'd seen her smoking I gave her the third degree about it. third degree burn a very serious type of burn (rather than a first-degree or second-degree burns which aren't as serious) There was a terrible accident at the factory and he suffered third-

degree burns on his arms. third-rate low quality He says my university is third-rate but I think he's just a snob. It's because my uni is only 10 years old he thinks it's no good. the third world (old-fashioned term) countries that are poor and are no very industrially developed. (People now usually call these areas 'developing counties') She worked for a third world charity, teaching children in Kenya for ten years.

Vocabulary: trial temporary, not permanent getting back together re-starting a romantic or sexual relationship with someone you were having a relationship with previously make our marriage work make a success of our relationship

139

Egg vocabulary

Here are some descriptions of ways to cook eggs, as well as some phrases and idioms about eggs. Ways of cooking eggs: boiled Put an egg in a small pan of water. Bring the water to the boil and simmer egg for about 3 minutes (for a soft-boiled egg) or 7 (for a hardboiled egg) I like my boiled eggs not too soft and not too hard. fried Put some oil into a frying pan. Break an egg into the pan and fry for a

few minutes Do you fancy a fried egg for breakfast? scrambled Crack 2 or 3 eggs into a small bowl. Whisk the eggs with a fork. Put some oil or butter into a small pan and pour the eggs into the pan. Use a wooden spoon to stir the eggs while they are cooking He always has scrambled eggs on toast for breakfast. Ways of describing eggs: yolk the yellow part of an egg (rather than the white part, which is simply called the white of an egg or the white) To make meringues, you need to separate the yolks from the whitesof 6 eggs and use only the whites. runny Scrambled or fried eggs can be described as 'runny'. This means the egg still has quite a bit of liquid in it Tim thought the eggs were a little bit runny. dry the opposite of runny How do you like your eggs - dry or runny? sunny side up A fried egg can be 'sunny side up'. It means you only fry it on one side and serve it so that you can see the white on the outside and the yolk in the middle Here are your eggs - sunny side up. Egg expressions: you have to break a few eggs (to make an omelette) some negative things will have to happen so that there can be a positive result I know it will mean some people are going to lose their jobs but we have to break a few eggs if the company is going to survive in this competitive market. to walk on eggshells to be very careful not to offend someone or do anything wrong Even though I'm married with kids of my own, whenever my mum comes to stay with me, she makes me really nervous. I feel like I'm walking on eggshells the whole time she's here. can't boil an egg unable to cook even the easiest of meals She has to do everything for him. He's hopeless, he can't even boil an egg. nest egg money you save for a special purpose (often for when you are older) As soon as Jenny was born we started a nest egg to help pay for her university fees. chicken and egg situation (informal) when it's impossible to say which of two things existed first or which

caused the other one It's the old chicken and egg situation. They don't want to join the tennis club because they don't know anyone there. But they don't know any of them because they're not in the tennis club. Vocabulary: runny (of food) not firm or cooked enough timesheets documents which are used to record the amount of time staff work stock-taking recording how much stock (or products) a company or business has interfered got involved in a situation when your involvement wasn't wanted or wasn't helpful

140

Sports vocabulary

Here is some vocabulary describing types of sports and as well as some phrases and idioms about sports Types of sports: contact sports sports like rugby, American football and wrestling in which the players have strong physical contact with each other He played contact sports when he was younger but then he had a serious accident on the field and hasn't played rugby since. spectator sports sports which people go to watch I don't understand why people think golf is a good spectator sport. It's so slow and not much happens in it. Give me football or tennis any day! water sports sports which take place on or in water She's really good at practically any water sport. She does diving,

swimming and water-skiing. winter sports sports that take place on snow or ice They're from Canada and they love doing winter sports. They're both very good ice-hockey players. blood sports sports that involve animals being killed or hurt to excite the people watching or taking part I don't understand why people enjoy killing tigers. There are so few of them left in the world. I think blood sports should be outlawed. extreme sports sports that are very dangerous and exciting She's always doing crazy things like bungee jumping. She lovesextreme sports and wouldn't dream of doing anything as boring as badminton! Sports idioms with 'ball': drop the ball make a mistake, especially by doing something careless or stupid He hadn't done his research and really dropped the ball when we were in the meeting. play ball agree to work with or help someone in the way they have suggested She asked if she could hand in her essay later because she'd been ill but the teacher wouldn't play ball. be on the ball be quick to understand and react to things or situations She's just not on the ball enough for us to give her the job. run with the ball take an idea or plan and develop it further They came up with a great marketing idea. Now it's our job to run with the ball and create a great campaign for it. a whole new ball game or a whole different ball game a situation that is now completely different to what it was before I'd done a bit of jogging and running before but doing a marathon was a whole different ball game. keep / have several balls in the air be responsible for more than one thing or project at a time Don't talk to me about keeping several balls in the air! I'm organising the party, working full-time and I have to pick the kids up every day. Vocabulary: what's on offer what's available individual something you do alone or by yourself martial arts traditional Japanese or Chinese sports that are forms of fighting or defending yourself

a racquet sport a sport where you use a racquet or bat (sports like tennis, squash or badminton for example)

141

Idioms: time

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. If you do something 'at the last minute' you do it almost as the deadline is approaching (the metaphorical meaning), you don't actually do itexactly one minute before the deadline (the literal meaning). Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say you did something 'at the eleventh hour' (which has a similar meaning to 'at the last minute') but you can't say you did something 'at the ninth hour'. Idioms with 'time': in the nick of time just in time, with hardly any time to spare We had a flat tyre on the way to the airport so we managed to catch our plane just in the nick of time. from time to time occasionally, not often We used to go out together almost every weekend but now that she's got kids I only see her from time to time. before your time something that happened or existed before you were born or were old enough to remember it Of course I don't remember the Los Angeles Olympics. They were waybefore my time. have (got) no time for someone disapprove of someone and not want to be involved with him or her I've got no time for people who don't pay their way. I don't see why I should always be the one to buy the drinks. live on borrowed time continue living after a point when you might easily have died Since his second heart attack, it's like he's been living on borrowed time. He's taken up golf, started painting and is really just getting much

more out of life. stand the test of time something that is still popular, strong or good after a long time Everyone loves that film just now but will it actually stand the test of time? time will tell the truth or result will only be known after other things have happened Only time will tell whether she made the right decision sacking Joe and hiring Frank Idioms about time: at the last minute at the latest possible chance to do something We'd decided we weren't going to go aboard this summer and then,at the last minute, we decided we did want a sunny, beach holiday after all. sooner or later certain that something will happen but you don't know exactly when You can sit there watching TV for as long as you like but sooner or later you're going to have to wash the dishes so you might as well just get on with them now. once in a blue moon rarely, not often Before we got married we used to go out on dates all the time. Now if I'm lucky, we'll go to the cinema once in a blue moon. for donkeys' years / donkeys I haven't seen her for donkeys. She moved to Spain in 1998 and I haven't seen her since. Vocabulary: I'm off I'm leaving now what time do you call this? Why are you late? getting on my wick annoying me turn up arrive optional something you can choose to do or not

142

Homophones 2

A homophone is a word which is pronounced the same as another word but spelt differently. For example, two (She has two sisters),too (Can I have a coffee too please?) and to (I'm going to lunch). Homophones from episode 142: I, eye and aye I'd like to book a court please. He was in a fight and someone punched him in the eye. Scottish people sometimes say 'aye' for 'yes'. hire and higher: When you were on holiday, did you hire a car? The cost of living is just getting higher and higher these days. racquet and racket: Can I borrow your squash racquet? Children, be quiet! Stop all this racket at once! Note: The sporting word for 'bat' can be spelt 'racquet' and 'racket' balls and bawls: Have you got the tennis balls? When the baby's hungry he bawls till his mother feeds him. all and awl: All of you are invited. The more the merrier. The cobbler put my shoe on the awl while he was working on it. time and thyme: Excuse me, have you got the time please? He uses lots of herbs (like basil and thyme) when he's cooking Italian

food. been and bean: Have you ever been to India? I'll have the black bean soup please. but and butt: I want to go on holiday but I've got no money. She smoked her cigarette and then crushed the butt on the ground with her shoe. would and wood: Would you like a coffee? Paper is made from wood. boys and buoys: They're got two boys and one girl. The buoys showed the ships what parts of the water near the rocks were safe. Vocabulary: courts places where you play games such as tennis, badminton or volleyball mixed doubles a game, for example tennis or badminton, played by a team made up of one male and one female player it's been years it's been a long time to book to reserve something or to arrange to have a tennis court, a place at a restaurant, etc. at a particular time in the future hang on wait on the telephone

143

Family vocabulary 2

Words we use to talk about our families (mother, family, marriage etc.) can also have other meanings, either on their own or as part of compound words or phrases.

Family Ways of describing families and family relations step-mother (also step-brother / step-sister / step-father / stepparent a woman who is married to someone's father but who is not their real mother After she married Chris, she became step-mother to his three children (as well as having her own daughter from her first marriage). ex-husband (also ex-wife / ex-boyfriend / ex-partner used to describe someone you used to have a relationship with It was such a bitter divorce that she never spoke to her exhusbandafter the divorce. Other words with 'family' run in the family a trait or type of behaviour that is similar in brothers and sisters or in children and parents She's great at singing. But it's no surprise really, being musical runs in the family. You know her grandfather was a famous opera singer and all her sisters play the piano. start a family have your first child, become a parent for the first time They've been married for five years and now they want to start a family. be in the family way (informal) be pregnant, be expecting a baby No wine for me, just some orange juice. You know I'm in the family way, don't you? So no booze for me for a while. blended family new family made up of two people (who were previously married to other partner) and the children from those previous marriages Jill's a single mum and Dan divorced his first wife years ago. With four children between them, they're now a very happy blended family. Marriage

Other words with 'marry' or 'marriage' be married to something be very close to something, very committed or very involved with something He's completely married to that marketing idea but I just don't think it's going to work. a marriage of things two things joined together Her work is a marriage of art and politics. Marry in haste, repent at leisure (fixed saying) if you marry someone quickly, without knowing them well, you will regret it later She's only 17 and she won't listen to anyone but you know the old saying 'Marry in haste, repent at leisure'. Stages of a relationship see someone be involved in a romantic relationship How long have you been seeing her? sleep with someone have a sexual relationship with someone He says he's not going to sleep with anyone until he gets married. be engaged (to someone) agree to marry someone (often people exchange rings and set a date for the wedding) They've been engaged for five years! I don't know if they're ever going to get married. get hitched / tie the knot (informal) get married Have you heard? Callum's just tied the knot! I thought he was a confirmed bachelor. be separated (from someone) no longer live with someone you are married to They decided to separate even though they'd only been married for a year or two. divorce (someone) formally end a marriage She divorced him after she found out he had been having an affair. Vocabulary save your marriage work at your relationship after you have had some difficulties, rather than splitting up or getting divorced give it a go try, attempt vows serious promises

144

Phrasal verbs - over

Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or adverb), for example, 'over' or 'under', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually non-literal. For example, to get means to obtain or possess (she's got a new car) but to get over someone means to feel better after someone you were romantically involved with has made you unhappy (Helen's mum said that Helen was getting over Michal).

Phrasal verbs - over Talk it over: Discuss something Helen's mum said she'd talk it over with Helen's dad. Don't just walk out! Let's talk it over first. Hand something over / Hand over something: Give something to someone You need to hand over your passport when you talk to the immigration officer. The robbers told us to hand over our wallets, purses and jewellery. Hang over / Hang over someone or something: Worry about something that might happen The threat of unemployment hangs over the country when the economy isn't doing well. This essay has been hanging over me all weekend. I know I have to finish it but I'd much rather go out with my friend and have some fun. Paper over (the cracks): Try to hide a problem rather than finding a solution to it There's no point trying to paper over the issue. We need to face it and deal with it now. They tried to paper over the cracks but eventually the boss realised there was a problem. Be doubled over: To be bent over because you are in pain or are laughing When she told me that joke I was doubled over with laughter. She was doubled over with the pain. Chew something over / Chew over something: Think about something carefully or discuss it with other people before deciding what to do Let me chew it over first. I'll let you know my decision tomorrow. You should chew over what he said. He had some really good ideas in

the meeting. Blow over: A situation that was possibly dangerous or embarrassing has stopped being a problem The government hopes the scandal will blow over before the election next month. She thought the problem was going to drag on for months but it actually blew over very quickly. Phrasal verbs - under Go under: Fail financially (of a business or enterprise) The business went under and they lost everything. If the economy continues on this downward trend, thousands of companies will go under. Go under: Sink The boat took too much water in. It went under and was never seen again. The ship went under and all the passengers drowned. Go under: Lose consciousness when you are given an anaesthetic She went under as soon as she was given the anaesthetic for the operation. The dentist gave me a jab and I went under. Be snowed under: Have too much work to do I'm sorry I won't be able to come to your party. I'm snowed under at the office just now. I'm snowed under at work but my boss never seems to notice. Vocabulary cheerful happy pretty quite What's new with you? How are you? What's your news?

145

Business vocabulary 2

Career stages get a junior position / be in a junior position: have a job with few responsibilities or power which usually involves doing mainly unskilled jobs She left school with no qualification so was lucky to get a junior position in an IT firm. get work experience / go on work experience: a short-term (often unpaid) job that young people or students take so that they can get experience of working in an office or company He's got some work experience at a newspaper over the summer. He hopes it will help him get a job in journalism when he graduates. get a permanent position / get a permanent contract / be made permanent: have long-term employment with a company After working on 3 short-term contracts they finally made him permanent last week. be promoted / get promoted / get a promotion: move further up in a company to a more senior role She's delighted. She got the promotion. She's a manager now. retire: stop working when you are old She worked for years as a teacher but now she has retired. She spends most of her time with her grandchildren. Employee relations a union: an organisation which employees (but not usually managers) can belong to. A union uses its strength, by having a lot of members, to talk to management to try to improve pay and working conditions for employees The unions are in discussions with the government about how the antismoking laws will affect workers in pubs and restaurants. strike / go on strike: refuse to continue working because of a disagreement with an employer about working conditions, pay or job losses etc The unions threatened to strike if the management don't offer a better pay deal. work-to-rule: when workers carefully obey all the rules and instructions given to them about their jobs, but don't do anything extra or outside those rules (as they usually do) They're not going on strike but are going to work-to-rule if the management decides to go ahead with the job cuts. Types of work and ways of working a freelancer: a person who does short pieces of work for different organisations rather than being continuously employed by one company We'll get some freelancers in to help us with this project so that we'll make the deadline. a job for life:

working for the same company all your working life The days of having a job for life are over now. Most people work for 8 10 companies during their working life. in-house: work that is done inside a company, rather than it being out-sourced We still produce the company newsletter in-house but we outsourced the printing. It's much cheaper than doing the printing ourselves. out-source: work that is done for one company by another one rather than it being done in-house The company decided to out-source its IT so that it could concentrate on its key business area - marketing. Vocabulary a right handful someone who is difficult to manage or control turned up arrived took him to task about it talked to him about it, blamed him for it or gave him into trouble about it asserting your authority showing that you have power notes written details about a lecture or lesson that you use to help you study or remember in the process while doing something else

146

Money vocabulary

Expensive or cheap Expensive

to cost a fortune I can't afford that dress, it costs a fortune! extortionate I can't believe you paid that much just for a bag. That's extortionate! Cheap cheap as chips These shoes were cheap as chips in the sale. a bargain She got a real bargain on that flight because she booked it so far in advance. Rich or poor Rich be rolling in it He's rolling in it. He's got four sports cars. be stinking rich They won the lottery and are stinking rich now. be made of money Do you think I'm made of money? Of course we can't afford that! Poor be as poor as a church mouse He's been unemployed for years and now he's as poor as a church mouse. to not have a penny to your name I don't have a penny to my name. I don't know how I'll manage until pay day next week. Easy or difficult ways to make money Easy money for old rope She loves animals so working in a pet shop is like money for old ropefor her. a licence to print money people become very rich without having to make much effort (or by doing something that's very easy for them) The Rolling Stones are going on tour again. I think it's just a licence for them to print money when they do those huge stadium concerts. Difficult Money doesn't grow on trees No, you can't have any more shoes. I bought you a pair just last week. Money doesn't grow on trees! Time is money You shouldn't waste time, because you could be using it to earn money OK, enough of this chit-chat and coffee drinking. Time is money, you know. Let's get to work! Vocabulary

to cramp your style to stop you doing something fun because someone interrupts you or wants to join you in what you're doing some strings attached some conditions or things you must do so that you can get something else (here, Helen has to work hard to get a trip to China) gets down to some serious work starts working hard fare money you pay for a journey on a plane, bus or train a reasonable arrangement a fair agreement

147

Medical vocabulary

Areas in a hospital reception the place in a hospital where people go when they first arrive You have to report to reception first before a nurse will see you. A and E Short for Accident and Emergency. The part of a hospital where people who are hurt in accidents or suddenly become ill are taken for urgent treatment. Also known as the Emergency Room (ER) in American English or Casualty All the victims were rushed to A and E after the explosion. ward one part of a hospital where patients with a similar type of condition or illness are treated Which ward is your mum in? Different types of wards or units in a hospital: cardiology the study and treatment of medical conditions of the heart neurology the study of the structure and diseases of the brain and all the nerves in

the body oncology the study and treatment of tumours (diseased cells which can lead to cancer) in the body gynaecology the treatment of women's diseases, especially those of the reproductive organs Medical equipment a needle a very thin piece of hollow metal used when taking blood or putting drugs into a patient You have to use a clean needle for each injection. a syringe a hollow cylindrical piece of equipment (used with a needle) which is used for holding liquid which is taken out or put into someone Have you got the syringes ready for the injections? a thermometer a device used for measuring someone's temperature (to find out if s/he has a fever or not) Just pop this thermometer under your tongue for 30 seconds please. Patient procedures and equipment an operation when a doctor (or surgeon) cuts a body for medical reasons to repair, remove or replace a diseased or damaged part I had to have an operation to have my appendix removed. a stitch a length of special thread (or cotton) used to join the edges of a deep cut in your flesh After my operation, I had to have 20 stitches. crutches a crutch is a stick with a piece that fits under the arm, which you lean on for support if you have difficulty in walking because of a foot or leg injury He broke his leg and has to use crutches for the next 6 weeks. a wheelchair a chair with wheels that someone who can't walk uses. The person can push the chair him/herself by using her arms to move the wheels or can be pushed by someone else It's important to make sure that the new building is accessible for people in wheelchairs. a sling a piece of material that is used to support your arm if you have broken or injured it She didn't break her arm but injured it quite badly in the fall and now has her arm in a sling. Vocabulary

changing taking off one set of clothes and putting on a different set of clothes to make up the numbers to have enough people to do a particular activity (here, four people to play a game of tennis) knackered (informal): tired a quiet night in an evening when you stay in your house, usually watching TV, rather than going out extremely professional very focused on your work to bail out on me to get out of something you had already planned to do with me

148

Idioms: clothes

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Idioms use language metaphorically said to Alice 'I've been in your shoes' she meant she had been in the same position as Alice (in having split up with her boyfriend). That's the What's next? metaphorical meaning, rather than the literal meaning 'I've been wearing your shoes Alice'. Idioms are also fixed groups of words The quiz an idiom. For example, you can 'keep something under your hat' (which means 'keep something a secret') but you can't 'keep something below your hat'. Go back Idioms with 'hat' The episode

talk through (a hole in) your hat

talk about something without understanding what you are talking about He was talking through a hole in his hat. He used a lot of computer jargon but you could tell he didn't really know the first thing about IT. Download this page old hat no longer in fashion, not modern or exciting Kids today think books are boring old hat. They think they can do read More on this topic anything they need on their computers but I don't think you can ever replace the feeling of a real book in your hands. throw your hat into the ring announce that you are going to enter a competition or election After she'd been a senator for so many years, no-one was surprised when Hilary Clinton threw her hat into the ring. pull something out of the hat do something unexpected which suddenly improves a bad situation The interview was going really badly but when they asked me the final question about my ideas for the company, I managed to out of the hat, and they offered me the job! take my hat off to him/her admire him/her My grandma's 75 years old and she's just climbed Mount Everest. my hat off to her! I just hope I'm as active as she is when I'm old. at the drop of a hat do something immediately without stopping I can't just go to the cinema with no warning. I need to get a baby-sitter first. I'm not like you young single ones who can do anything they like the drop of a hat. Idioms with clothes

be all mouth (and no trousers) talk a lot about doing something but never actually do it He's been saying for years that he's going to buy a flash new car but we still haven't seen one. He's all mouth and no trousers. get your knickers in a twist become confused, worried or annoyed about something It's no big deal. Don't get your knickers in a twist. It's only dinner with a few friends. speak off the cuff say something without having prepared or thought about your words first She was fantastic. She just stood up and spoke off the cuff - no notes or anything. roll up your sleeves get ready for some hard work OK, it's time to roll up our sleeves. We've only got 2 more days till this

report has to be ready. Let's get to work! Vocabulary

walked out on him left him (after being married to him) he's got no backbone he doesn't have a strong character drastic severe and sudden some fresh air clean and cool atmosphere found outside rather than inside a room or house insist demand forcefully, especially when another person opposes the idea

149

Tennis vocabulary

Players and officials a player: one of the people involved in playing a game, e.g. tennis player or football player a line judge: an official who decides if a ball has landed inside or outside the court during a tennis match an umpire: a person, who usually sits in a high chair at the side of the tennis court, and who makes sure that the rules of the game are obeyed. The umpire can overrule a call made by a line judge

a referee: a person who overseas all aspects of play at a tournament including how the players behave, the coaches, spectators, and administrative crew a coach: a person who teaches people to improve at a sport. A coach who works with a professional tennis player will also usually travel with him or her the major tournaments and watch the player compete Professional competitions and types of court a grand slam: one of the four major competitions in professional tennis each year - the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open a court: a defined area where a tennis match takes place a hard court: a tennis court make of cement or asphalt. The Australian Open is played on hard courts a clay court: a tennis court made of crushed stone or brick. The French Open is played on red clay courts a grass court: a tennis court made of grass. Wimbledon in played on grass courts Types of shots serve: a point begins with a player serving the ball. This means one player hits the ball towards the other player an ace: a type of serve which is so strong and fast that the other player cannot return the ball crosscourt: when the ball is hit from your side of the court in a diagonal line into the other player's court in: when the ball bounces inside the correct area of the court (usually marked by white lines) out: a shot that isn't 'in', i.e. that bounces outside the lines on the court Vocabulary The match is ours We will win the tennis match Show no mercy Be ruthless, don't be kind of sympathetic hiding your light under a bushel (fixed expression) keeping your good qualities, skills or abilities secret from other people

No point getting het up It's useless being anxious or getting angry or upset

150

Animal vocabulary

Words we use to talk about animals (chicken, bull, fish etc.) can also have other meanings, either on their own or as part of compound words, phrases or idioms.

Chickens run about like a headless chicken very busy doing lots of things but not in a way that is very effective There were three people off sick this week, so she's been running around like a headless chicken trying to get everything done. be chicken / chicken out of something decide not to do something because you are too frightened I was going to do a parachute jump, but I chickened out. be no spring chicken be no longer young, be older My dad thinks he wears really fashionable clothes. But he's no spring chicken. I wish he would just wear a suit and tie like everyone else who's 50. Bulls like a bull in a china shop be clumsy or careless when you should be or behave carefully I told him it was a very sensitive meeting but he just went in like a bull in a china shop, asking about their prices and how much profit they were going to make. take the bull by the horns do something difficult in a brave and determined way You need to take the bull by the horns and talk to him about his behaviour. like a red rag to a bull be certain to make someone angry or react violently to something you

say or do Don't smoke in her house. She hates smoking - it's like a red rag to a bull. bull market (business term) a time when price of stocks and shares are rising This isn't a good time to invest in stocks and shares. It's a bull market now because unemployment and inflation are high. a bull's eye the circular centre of the object which you aim at in games like darts, shooting or archery She's good at darts. She usually gets a bull's eye in every game she plays. Snakes snake move along a route or line that includes a lot of twists or bends Everyone one wanted to be first in the shop when the sale started. The queue snaked all around the building. snake oil something worthless or useless that someone tries to sell you She uses all sorts of lotions and potions on her face. I don't know why she bothers. It's just a load of snake oil. snakes and ladders a board game with squares. Some squares have pictures of ladders or snakes. If you come to a square with a ladder, you move up some squares. If you come to a square with a snake, you have to go down some squares. Fish fishy not completely legal, true or right I don't know why I don't believe him but there's something fishyabout him. I just don't trust him. fish for compliments try to make someone say something nice or complimentary about you or your abilities His paintings were really nothing special. But he kept asking me what I thought of different famous artists. He was really fishing for compliments. have bigger fish to fry have more important things to think about or deal with Now that she's been promoted she doesn't have any time for us. She's got bigger fish to fry. Vocabulary wild tales amazing or unbelievable stories I'm going to have to let you go

I'm going to be forced to sack you (fire you from this job) fire remove or dismiss someone from his or her job apron a piece of clothing you wear over your clothes to protect them while you are cooking (or doing something that might get your own clothes dirty) You'll be laughing on the other side of your face Although you are pleased now, you won't be pleased later when things don't happen as you expect them to

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Phrasal verbs - up

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Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or adverb), for example, 'up' or 'down', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually nonWhat's next? literal. For example, to pick means to select or choose (she for her team) but to pick someone or something upmeans or something using your hands (Dr Laver told Molly to babies). The quiz Pick something or someone up has other meanings too. Some of them are listed here, as well as other phrasal verbs with 'up': Go back Phrasal verbs - pick up The episode

pick something up / pick up something 1. learn a new skill or language by practising it rather than being taught it Download this page He didn't study German at school but he soon in Berlin. 2. catch an illness from someone or something, caused by bacteria or a virus More on this topic

They picked up malaria when they went on holiday. 3. buy something cheaply I picked up a real bargain today. These shoes were half-price. 4. start something again after an interruption or return to something She's going to pick up golf again in the summer. 5. receive a signal (with a piece of electrical equipment) You can pick up the World Service in almost every country in the world. pick something or someone up / pick up something or someone collect, or to go and get, someone or something I ordered the birthday cake. Can you tomorrow? He always picks up the kids from school on a Tuesday. pick somebody up 1. stop someone and take them to a police station to question them or arrest them She was picked up by the police for driving without a licence. 2. start a sexual or romantic relationship with someone you don't know, by talking to them and giving them a lot of attention I picked her up in a bar and here we are now celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary! Who would have guessed? Phrasal verbs - up

chat somebody up / chat up somebody talk to someone in a way that shows them that you are sexually attracted to him or her He spent all evening chatting me up look something up / look up something try to find a piece of information by looking in a book or on a computer If you don't know how to pronounce a word, you should dictionary. bring somebody up / bring up somebody care for someone from birth until he or she is an adult My parents brought me up always to tell the truth. bring something up / bring up something 1. start talking about a particular subject He's always bringing up the fact that he owns a sports car! 2. vomit or throw up The food wasn't good at all at that restaurant. Ten minutes after she ate the fish, she brought it up. Vocabulary

matron senior nurse who manages and is in charge of other more junior nurses nerve-wracking frightening ward area of a hospital where patients with similar diseases or needs are looked after together the rounds a doctor seeing patients in a hospital ward creep (informal) someone who tries to make someone like him or her by being very polite, helpful, friendly or sexy in a way that is not sincere

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Describing people

Positive characteristics capable able to cope with difficult situations, able to do things very well or skilfully She's a very capable pilot. You always feel safe when she's in charge. cooperative willing to help or do what people ask, ready to work together with someone (rather than against them) This project will only be successful if everyone is cooperative. We need team-players not people who are only interested in getting ahead by themselves. protective able to keep people safe from injury, damage or loss She's a very protective mother. She won't let anyone hurt her children.

reflective thinking carefully and quietly After the judge spoke, the criminal sat in a quiet, reflective silence. instinctive reacting or behaving without having to think or learn about it He's got instinctive reactions on the football pitch. He doesn't even seem to see the ball, yet he connects with it every time. mature behaving like an adult, in a way that shows you are well developed emotionally I know you didn't win. But you need to take it like a grown-up. Crying isn't very mature, is it? upbeat having hopeful, happy feelings Despite the bad economic news, the prime minister remained upbeatabout the new policies. witty able to use words in a clever and funny way She's very witty. She always makes us laugh with her funny comments. Negative characteristics head-strong determined to do what you want to do, even if other people advise you not to Jack is head-strong. Even though he knows it makes Tim angry if he's late, he still shows up late for work. domineering having a strong tendency to control other people without considering their feelings He's so domineering. He always has to get his own way no matter what the rest of us want to do. gullible ready to believe anything that people tell you, even if it seems obvious to other people that it's not true She's so gullible. Even though it seemed obvious it was just a spam email, she actually believed they were going to send her a million dollars! thick-skinned not easily upset or concerned by negative things people say about you I tried to give them the hint that it was time to leave. But they were so thick-skinned about it. They were the last ones to leave at two in the morning! Vocabulary awkward difficult to deal with reference recommendation

the catering trade a business which provides food (a restaurant or cafe, for example) your very own establishment (formal) your business I'm between a rock and a hard place (idiom) I'm in a very tricky situation and have to make a difficult decision

153

Business vocabulary

economic and business terms economies of scale the more units of something you buy, the cheaper it becomes per unit They benefited from economies of scale when they opened their second shop and were able to buy in even bigger quantities from their supplier. a budget the amount of money a business (or person) plans to spend on something We've got a budget for our wedding but we've already spent almost all of it on her dress. overspend or go over budget spend more money than you planned to We need to keep a tight hold on our marketing spending or we'll go over budget. We need to keep a tight hold on our marketing spending or we'lloverspend. break even the point where the amount you pay out in expenses is covered by the amount of money you get for things you have sold (i.e. you haven't made a profit or a loss) We need to sell 100 family cars or just three sports cars to break even. make a loss when your expenses are more than your sales When they started in business they made a loss for two years. But finally, things started to change for them last year.

make a profit when a business is able to cover all its expenses from sales and still have extra money left over The restaurant has been making a profit for years and it's still doing very well. money-spinner something that is very popular and easy to sell During the World Cup, having a stall that sells flags from different countries is a real money spinner. cash cow a product that makes a lot of money (often easily) for a company Making the film cost us millions. But at least we've got the DVD, dolls and clothes cash cows to help us cover those enormous costs. mass market things that are sold in large numbers to a lot of people Our family cars are aimed at the mass market, while our sports cars are more for the niche market. 'Price' words and expressions asking price the amount of money you want when you sell something, (especially in a situation when you might agree to a lower price later) The asking price for the car was ÂŁ10,000 but she ended up getting it for ÂŁ8,500. a price war when different companies compete with each other by lowering prices The supermarkets started a price war on bread last month. Each week the cost of a loaf gets lower and lower. a price tag a sticker or piece of paper on something in a shop that tells you how much something costs These shoes are gorgeous. I don't think I want to look at the price tag! be price-conscious be aware of how much things cost and avoid buying expensive things My mum's very price-conscious. She buys practically all of our clothes in the sales Vocabulary let's get cracking (informal) let's start demand something that people want to buy state (formal) say inversely related as one thing goes up, another thing goes down in the balance something will be decided soon - one way or another

rash hasty, sudden

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Business vocabulary

money-spinner something that is very popular and easy to sell During the World Cup, having a stall that sells flags from different countries is a real money spinner. cash cow a product that makes a lot of money (often easily) for a company Making the film cost us millions. But at least we've got the DVD, dolls and clothes cash cows to help us cover those enormous costs. mass market things that are sold in large numbers to a lot of people Our family cars are aimed at the mass market, while our sports cars are more for the niche market. 'Price' words and expressions asking price the amount of money you want when you sell something, (especially in a situation when you might agree to a lower price later) The asking price for the car was ÂŁ10,000 but she ended up getting it for ÂŁ8,500. a price war when different companies compete with each other by lowering prices The supermarkets started a price war on bread last month. Each week the cost of a loaf gets lower and lower. a price tag a sticker or piece of paper on something in a shop that tells you how much something costs These shoes are gorgeous. I don't think I want to look at the price tag! be price-conscious be aware of how much things cost and avoid buying expensive things My mum's very price-conscious. She buys practically all of our clothes in the sales Vocabulary let's get cracking (informal) let's start demand something that people want to buy state (formal) say inversely related as one thing goes up, another thing goes down in the balance something will be decided soon - one way or another rash hasty, sudden

155

Vocabulary of studying

studying a study scheme a planned timetable of what or how to learn or revise Helen and John devised a study scheme to help them revise for their economics test. study under someone be taught by someone Helen studies economics under Professor Lewis. revise (verb), revision (uncountable noun) re-learn or memorise a subject before having a test on it Sorry I can't come to your party but I have to revise for my history exam this weekend. He hardly did any revision and still managed to do OK on the test. It's just not fair! cram try to learn a lot very quickly before an exam I stayed up till 4 this morning, cramming for the exam but I don't think I can actually remember any of it now. exams pass (verb), a pass (noun) be successful in an exam Did you pass your driving test? I just managed to scrape a pass. The exam was really difficult. fail be unsuccessful in an exam She failed her driving three times before she passed. a border line pass a mark on a test that's only just above the pass mark The pass mark was 60% and I got a borderline pass of just 62%. But at least I passed. a clear pass a mark on a test that's much higher than the pass mark She got a clear pass on her chemistry exam and is sure to graduate at the top of her class.

re-sit take an exam again because you didn't pass it the first time you sat it I failed geography and am going to re-sit it in September. university or college an undergraduate someone who is studying for their first degree He's an undergraduate at Yale. graduate (verb), a graduate (noun) someone who has passed all their final exams at university and has been awarded a degree He graduated in 2003. She's an Edinburgh graduate. a postgraduate / a postgrad someone who is studying for a second degree after getting a first one After graduating in Chemistry, he started his postgrad in Biochemical Engineering. lecture (verb), a lecture (noun) give a lesson on a specialist subject to a large group of students at university She's been lecturing in Medicine for years. We have our Business Administration lectures on Tuesday at 10 o'clock. a tutorial a lesson or period of study with a tutor involving one student or a small group of students His professor helped him planned his essay in his tutorial. Vocabulary: can't bear not wanting to do something because it will make you scared or uncomfortable dawdling (informal) doing something very slowly, taking more time than you need to on the line at risk. You might get something, you might not ecstatic very happy noticeboard (US bulletin board) a board on a wall on which people can put notices, adverts etc.

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Adjectives + infinitives or prepositions

Some adjectives are followed by infinitives, particularly when we are talking about feelings or how we react to things or people. For example, Jack said 'I was desperate to keep my job'. Some other adjectives are followed by different prepositions. For example, Tim wanted Jack to be responsible for his own actions. Here are some examples of adjectives + infinitives and adjectives + prepositions.

Adjective + infinitive afraid to I was afraid to tell you what I'd done. I thought you would fire me. bound to / certain to You love action films so you're bound to think the new James Bond film is fantastic. happy to I'd be happy to baby-sit for you. Let me just check I'm free on Friday. shocked to He was shocked to hear he'd failed his exam. He was sure he was going to pass. Adjective + of capable of / incapable of Mum! There's no need to keep watching me every minute. I'm quitecapable of cooking a meal by myself. She's completely incapable of going window shopping. She always ends up buying something. sure of / certain of She's such a know-it-all. It drives me crazy the way she's so sure ofeverything. A: Are you sure Pauline's party's this Saturday? B: I'm certain of it. I put it in my diary as soon as she invited us. sick of / tired of / sick and tired of I'm sick of hearing about his fabulous new car. I'm tired of fish. Can't we have something different to eat tonight? I'm sick and tired of her going on about how wonderful her holiday

was. frightened of / scared of What a pair we are! She's frightened of spiders and I'm scared ofheights. Adjective + at good at / brilliant at He's good at talking to strangers at parties. I'm just too shy. bad at / hopeless at / useless at He's pretty bad at cooking but at least he always does the washing up. I'm hopeless at remembering people's names. I'm good at faces, but just useless at names. Adjective + about annoyed about He's annoyed about the way she kept interrupting him in the meeting. guilty about I feel guilty about forgetting my mum's birthday this year. It just completely slipped my mind. excited about My grandma's never been to the States before so she's really excited about her trip to New York. Vocabulary threatens tells someone they will cause problems for you if you don't do what they want goes behind my back does something, in a way which is unfair or dishonest, without me knowing about it snivelling crying in an immature, childish way humiliated made to feel ashamed pull rank use the power that your position gives you over someone to make them do what you want stuffed up (informal) spoiled something (here, his job) by doing something wrong

157

Air travel vocabulary 2

Here is some vocabulary about airports and air travel. Beginning and ending your journey: a departures board a noticeboard in an airport that tells passengers information about their flight a boarding pass a piece of paper or card that is given to a passenger at check-in. A passenger must have one to be allowed to go onto the plane passport control the place in the airport where your passport and boarding card are checked before you go to the departure lounge a final call an announcement that's made over the airport's loudspeaker system to let passengers know that the flight is almost ready to go baggage reclaim part of the airport where you go to collect your luggage after you arrive at your destination airport. Usually there is a 'carousel' - a continuous moving strip of material that goes round in a circle with passengers' bags on it Types of flights: a short-haul flight a flight that takes a short time (up to about three hours), compared to a long-haul flight a long-haul flight a flight that takes a long time (over seven hours), compared to a shorthaul flight a domestic flight a flight between two airports in the same country an international flight a flight between two airports in the different countries

a red-eye (flight) a flight that leaves late at night and arrives early the next morning Types of seats on a plane: a window seat a seat next to the window an aisle seat a seat next to the aisle (the walkway between rows of seats) an economy seat a seat in the economy class part of the plane (in the back part of the plane, where the seats are smaller and closer together than in other parts of the plane) a first-class seat a seat in the first-class part of the plane (in the front part of the plane, where the seats are bigger and spaced further than in other parts of the plane) Vocabulary: shortly soon descent a plane's movement down (towards the destination airport) local time the official time in a country or an area (e.g. When it's 9.20 pm local time in Beijing, it's 1.20 pm in London) honeymoon holiday a couple take after they've just been married track events sport events which take place on the running track of a stadium (e.g. 1000 metres, hurdles, relay race) some local colour the special or unusual features of a place

158

Colours

Here is some vocabulary, idioms and sayings about colours.

Red: red tape official rules and processes that seem unnecessary and often take a long time to complete There's so much red tape involved in getting a visa. I can't believe they can't make it easier for us tourists. be on red alert be ready to deal with a sudden dangerous situation The army has been on red alert since the first bomb exploded. the red carpet a long, red floor covering that is put down for an important guest to walk on when they visit somewhere The film stars are all out tonight on the red carpet for the Oscar ceremony. Black: a black box a small machine that records information about a plane during its flight, and which is used to find out the cause of an accident The aircraft's black box has been found and will be analysed by experts. a black market illegal trading of goods that are not allowed to be bought and sold, or that there are not enough of for everyone who wants them The tax on cigarettes is so high now that lots of people buy them onthe black market. black mark (informal, usually singular) something you have done wrong or failed to do that affects how people think of you If I don't hand my homework in on time, it will be another black markagainst me. Yellow: yellow not brave, cowardly She's so yellow she wouldn't even look at the spider, let alone touch it. a yellow card a card shown to a player by the referee for a serious foul in a football match. The ref gave her a yellow card for kicking another player. Green: a green card a document that allows a foreigner to live and work in the United States

Although she's British, she's got a green card and can work in New York. a green room a room in, for example, a theatre or TV building where performers or guests can relax before and after their appearance on stage or on TV After the show, the stars will relax with food and drink in the green room. give the green light to something give permission for someone to do something or for something to happen We got given the green light for the project to start next month. Vocabulary vibrant bright and strong a symbol a sign, shape (or, a colour) which is used to represent something else practically almost all tiles thin, usually square or rectangular piece of baked clay, plastic, or metal used for covering roofs associated connected

159

Food vocabulary

Here is some vocabulary about food and restaurants.

Types of meals: a barbecue / a bbq an informal meal which you eat outside (in your garden, a park or other

outside space). The food is cooked on an outdoor grill a picnic an informal meal which you eat outside (in your garden, a park or other outside space). The food is either pre-cooked or uncooked. Almost all the food is served cold a buffet a meal in a restaurant or at a party where you help yourself (rather than being served by waiters) and pick and choose what food and how much of it you want to eat an all-you-can-eat buffet a special kind of buffet which restaurants serve where you can go back to the buffet table as many times as you want and eat as much food as you care to for a fixed price an early bird special / an early bird menu a fixed-price meal that is offered to customers early in the afternoon (from about 6.00 - 7.30 pm), before restaurants become busy during the evening Ways of describing food: raw uncooked but edible (you can eat it). For example, carrots, tuna or beef can be raw fresh in a natural condition rather than artificially preserved by, for example, freezing ripe completely developed and ready to be eaten off no longer fresh or good to eat because it's too old rotten fruit or vegetables which are no longer fresh rancid butter or oil which is no longer fresh sour milk which is no longer fresh Things you might find in a Chinese restaurant: chopsticks two slim pieces of wood, plastic or metal which are used for eating food from East Asian food a lazy Susan a circular piece of wood or plastic which is put on a table and can be turned around so that everyone at a circular table can reach the food that is on it a fortune cookie a hollow biscuit which, when you break it open, contains a message,

usually about your future. These biscuits are not given to customers in restaurants in China but are often given in Chinese restaurants outside China Vocabulary game willing to do things that are new, risky or difficult testicles either of the two round male sex organs which produce sperm, below and behind the penis ventured risked going somewhere that might be dangerous, unpleasant or here, unfamiliar Isn't that the truth? That is very true

160

Confusing verbs

Here are some pairs of verbs you might sometimes find confusing.

See and watch, hear and listen to:

In these pairs of verbs it's important to know if we are intentionally doing something or if it is just happening without us trying to do anything. We use 'see' and 'hear' for sights and sounds that come to our eyes and ears, without us trying to see or hear them. For example, Tim said 'Did you see any of the Games?' 'Listen' and 'watch' are used to describe paying attention to sights and sounds that are going on. For example, Helen said 'I watchedsome of the Olympics on TV.' A: Did you hear all the police sirens last night? B: No I didn't hear a thing. I was sound asleep. A: I was awake listening to the radio, when suddenly the sirens started blaring for about 10 minutes. Tell and speak: With 'tell' we can use an object (to say who is told): Can you tell me what the time is please? She told him not to drive so quickly. We can use 'tell' to report the main idea of what someone said. We don't have to repeat the exact words the person used: She told me to close the window. (She may have said, 'Please close the window' or 'Shut the window' or 'Would you mind closing the window please?') With 'speak' we usually use a preposition 'to', 'about' or 'of' before the object when the meaning is 'talk' or 'converse': I spoke to him about his behaviour. She spoke about her work at the university. He spoke of his interest in photography. It's also possible to use 'speak' without a preposition, meaning someone's language ability: Does he speak French? She can speak four languages. Lie and lay: 'Lie' means be in or move into a horizontal position on a surface (for example, on a bed or sofa). This verb is intransitive so it doesn't need an object. It's usually followed by a phrase of place: I just want to lie on the beach all day. If you don't feel well, you should go and lie down. The three forms of this verb are: lie, lay (past) and lain (past participle): The dog lay under the tree. The bones have lain there for thousands of years. 'Lay' means 1. put something in a flat or horizontal position, usually carefully. It's a transitive verb so it's followed by an object (and usually a preposition or adverb): She laid the baby gently on the sofa so as not to waken him. He laid the plates down on the table.

2. produce eggs from out of the body of an animal or bird: Our chicken lays 5 eggs a week. The three forms of this verb are: lay, laid (past), laid (past participle): Can you lay this vase carefully over there please? She laid the two dresses on the bed trying to decide which one to wear. I've laid all the pieces of jigsaw puzzle on the table so we can start putting it together. Vocabulary: on great form feeling or being very well, very healthy and in good spirits

161

Imperatives

Imperatives In this episode of the Flatmates Helens says to Khalid: 'Don't forget to make a wish!' Tim also says to Khalid: 'Don't say it out loud!' These are both examples of what are called imperatives and in particular, negative imperatives. The imperative is a verb form that is used to give orders, instructions, advice, encouragement etc. It's formed by using the base infinitive of the verb (the infinitive without to). You don't need a subject. Sit down! Be quiet! Go away! Put it down there. Try speaking more slowly. Take care! Be careful! You can make an imperative more emphatic (stronger) by adding 'do' before the verb. This can also show more politeness or more concern as well as being a

strong order. Oh do shut up! (Strong order) Welcome, do sit down. (Formal / polite) It's a long journey, do take care. (showing concern) In all cases pronunciation is very important. The same words can show anger or politeness depending on the tone of voice. Negative imperatives Sometimes you want to tell someone NOT to do something. This is a negative imperative. In this case you simply add the word 'Don't' before the verb. Don't sit down! Don't open that door! Don't forget to make a wish! Don't say it out loud! Don't be silly. Don't worry! Don't be sad!

Imperatives - other notes Although you don't need to use a subject pronoun with imperatives, you can use a noun or pronoun to make it clear who you are talking to. Peter sit down. Everyone else stay standing. Don't worry everybody, it's only a drill, not a real fire. Note that using 'You' before an imperative can show anger or that you are putting yourself in a position of authority. The pronoun 'you' comes before the imperative and not after. You come here! You calm down! In negative imperatives the pronoun 'you' comes between 'don't' and the imperative. Don't you leave! Don't you speak to me like that! Adverbs like 'always' and 'never' come before imperatives. Always look both ways before you cross the road. Never drive without your seatbelt fastened. Vocabulary: You shouldn't have! a polite way of accepting an unexpected gift. cast-offs clothes that you no longer want that you give to other people a re-gift a creative use of English, not a real word but a way to make 'a cast-off' seem less negative. crafty

clever and imaginative but in a slightly dishonest way

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Verb patterns: different meanings

Sometimes in a sentence, one verb follows another. For example, 'I remember telling her about the bowling'. The first verb is 'remember', the second verb is 'tell'. In sentences like this, there are two main patterns. For example: (a) I want to buy a diamond ring. (b) I remember telling her about the bowling. In sentence A, the first verb is followed by an infinitive. In sentence B, the first verb is followed by a gerund (-ing) form. The verb patterns are dependent upon the first verb. Sometimes, if a verb has two patterns, each pattern can have a different meaning or use. Here are some examples of verbs that change meaning with each pattern:

Remember: Remember + ___ing 1. I remember telling her about the bowling. 2. I remember hitting the car, but after that I don't know what happened. In this case, 'remember' means that you have the memory of that action or event. You know it happened because you can now remember it. Remember + to ___ 3. I remembered to turn off the lights when I left the room. 4. Remember to bring your passport with you. In this case, remember means that you do not forget to do something. Try: Try + ___ing

1. Try using a heavier bowling ball. 2. If you want to lose weight, try doing more exercise. In this case, we use try when we suggest a way to achieve something. For example, there are many ways you can lose weight... Try doing more exercise Try changing your diet Try eating less All of these suggestions are good ways to achieve your goal; they are all ways to lose weight. Try + to ___ 3. I tried to open the window but it was impossible. 4. I am trying to hit the pins, but I keep missing them. In this case, try means that we attempted to do something, but we failed to do it. We made an unsuccessful attempt to do something. Forget: Forget + ___ing 1. I've forgotten telling you that it is my birthday today. 2. He's forgotten promising to send you the pictures. In this case, forget means that you did the action, but now you cannot remember that you did it. So, in sentence 2, he promised to send you the pictures, but he still hasn't sent them to you. Why? Because he has forgotten about his promise. Note: For this meaning, we often use a 'that clause', rather than the '___ing' form. For example: I've forgotten that I told you that it is my birthday today. He's forgotten that he promised to send you the pictures. Forget + to ___ 3. I forgot to telephone the bank before I went on holiday. 4. She's forgotten to bring her passport. We can't go on holiday now! In this case, forget means you didn't do something. Regret: Regret + ___ing 1. She regrets leaving her last boyfriend. She still loves him. 2. I regret changing my job. I don't like my new one. In this case, regret means that you did something in the past, and now you feel sad that you did it. Regret + to ___ 3. We regret to tell you that your flight has been cancelled. 4. I regret to say that you have not passed your exam and that you

must now leave the university. In this case, regret means that, right now, you are sorry to give bad news to someone. Vocabulary to follow through with your arm To continue the arm movement after you have released the bowling ball bowling alley the place where you play ten-pin bowling a strike when you are playing ten-pin bowling and you knock over all ten pins in one go

163

Phrasal verbs with 'take'

Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or adverb), for example, 'up' or 'down', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually non-literal. For example, to pickmeans to select or choose (she picked him for her team), but to pick on someone means to criticize someone repeatedly and unfairly (Tim always picks on Jack because he thinks Jack is a lazy worker). Phrasal verbs often have more than one meaning. Also, many verbs combine with several different prepositions. Here are some phrasal verbs that use the verb 'take', with some of their different meanings:

Take after: to be similar in character, or appearance, to an older member of your family 1. I take after my father. We both have the same sense of humour. 2. She takes after her grandmother. Can you see that they have the same eyes and nose?

Take in: a. to understand the full meaning or importance of something; to mentally absorb some information 1. The exhibition was fascinating, but there was too much informationto take in. I will have to visit it again. 2. It took a long time for him to take in how terrible the earthquake was. It was only when he saw the pictures on the news that he realised that it had destroyed so much. b. to deceive someone; to make someone believe something that is not true 1. David and Emma really took me in when they told me they were going to leave the country. I even bought them a farewell card and a leaving present! They've only just told me they were joking. Take on: a. to hire someone for a job; to employ someone 1. The company has really grown over the last few years. This year we have taken on ten new employees. 2. When Tim took me on as a chef, he promised to trust me more. b. to compete against someone; to fight someone 1. So you think you are good at tennis, do you? I'll take you on in a game next week, and then we'll see if you are as good as you say you are! 2. Robert was attacked in the street by three men yesterday, but hetook them all on and won! If they had known he was a karate expert, perhaps they wouldn't have attacked him. Take to: a. to begin to like something or someone 1. I hope my son takes to his new school. He was really happy in his old one. 2. I took to Jane as soon as I met her, and now we are engaged to be married! b. to go somewhere, perhaps to escape from something 1. The villagers took to the hills when they heard that the army was coming. 2. When the government announced the massive increase in taxation, many people took to the streets in order to protest against the plan. Take up: a. to start doing something, particularly a hobby or activity 1. After my relationship with my girlfriend ended, I felt a bit lonely so Itook up sailing. I've got lots of new friends now.

b. to fill space or time 1. I sold my piano because it took up too much space in my living room. I've bought an electronic keyboard now, which is much smaller. 2. I haven't got any work done this morning because answering my emails has taken up all my time. Vocabulary to jump to the wrong conclusion to reach a false opinion or idea about something very quickly to take someone on to employ someone

164

The passive

In English, many sentences use the active form of the verb. The performer of the action, or the agent, comes first and is the subject of the verb that follows. The receiver of the action is the object of the verb, and it comes after the verb. For example, The builders took down the shelves. The builders painted the wall. In these sentences, the builders are the agent of the action. The wall and the shelves are the object of the verb, the receiver of the action. The verb is in the active form. The passive form is used when we want to focus attention on the receiver of the action, not on the agent of the action. In this case, the receiver of the action becomes the subject of the verb, which is now in the passive form. For example, The shelves were taken down. The wall was painted.

Making the passive form: To turn a verb from the active form to the passive form, we use the past participle of the main verb, preceded by the verb 'to be'. The receiver of

the action comes before the verb in the passive form. The verb 'to be' agrees with this subject. Subject + to be + past participle of the main verb The shelves were taken down The wall was painted In order to change the tense, you change the form of 'to be' Present simple: Many clothes are made in China these days. Present continuous: The redecoration work is being done. Present perfect simple: The bath has been changed. Past simple: The wall was painted. Modal forms: The flat should be modernised. In order to make a negative, you use 'not to be' in the correct form. The computer wasn't delivered yesterday. The children weren't collected from school. The agent: When you use the passive form, if you want to give the agent of the action, you use 'by'. The report was written by David. Choosing to use the passive form: You can use the passive form when... ...the agent is unknown My bike was stolen 2 weeks ago. In this example, the person who stole the bicycle, the agent of the action, is unknown. ...the agent is unnecessary or unimportant Then, one week later, the thief was arrested. In this example, we do not say 'by the police' because we do not need to. Only the police can arrest people, so we don't need to mention them in this sentence. ...our focus is on the receiver of the action, not the agent Football is the number one sport in the world. It is played in most countries and it is loved by people of all ages, from 7 to 70. In this sentence, our focus is on football, so we choose to use the passive form. This keeps football as the subject of the sentence. Vocabulary to modernise something to change something so that it is newer, or more up-to-date

redecoration when you change the look of a room, by painting it a new colour, for example

165

Kitchen vocabulary

Here is some vocabulary connected to cooking and kitchens.

Utensils and equipment: a knife a basic, hand-held tool for cutting food a peeler a hand-held tool specially designed for removing the skin from vegetables such as potatoes a spatula a thin tool - sometimes made of wood - which is used to remove food from a pan a strainer / sieve a tool used to remove water from food. It's bowl-shaped, with lots of holes to let the water run through a saucepan a basic metal pan that is often used to cook food in hot water a lid the cover of a saucepan a frying pan a shallow pan that is often used to cook food in a little hot oil a wok a deep pan that is often used in East Asian countries as a frying pan a cooker the machine which provides the heat for cooking; it is powered by electricity or gas an oven a part of a cooker. It is the box-shaped part of the cooker, which you

open like a cupboard, and put food inside to cook it at a high temperature a hob the top part of the cooker, where you cook with saucepans and frying pans Cooking: to peel (a vegetable) to remove the skin from vegetables, such as potatoes to chop (an onion) to use a knife to cut some food into small pieces to slice (a cucumber) to cut food in a careful way so that you make thin pieces to dice (a carrot) to cut food into small cube-shaped pieces to boil (an egg) to cook food in very hot water; the water is bubbling strongly to simmer to cook food in hot water, but below boiling temperature (100 degrees C) to bake (a cake) to cook food in an oven to fry (a sausage) to cook food in hot oil, usually in a frying pan or wok to roast (some beef) to cook meat, with a little oil, at a high temperature in an oven Miscellaneous: ingredients the different types of food that you need to cook a dish a recipe the instructions for how to cook something an apron an item of clothing that you wear to protect your clothes a cook a person who prepares food and makes the dinner etc. a chef We use this word to refer to a professional cook who works in a restaurant Vocabulary spuds potatoes (slang/colloquial)

166

Idioms: shoulder, back and neck

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. When Tim said Alice was 'giving him the cold shoulder' he meant she was being to be deliberately or intentionally unfriendly or rude to him (the metaphorical meaning). He didn't mean that she was giving him a cold part of her body at the side of her neck, (the literal meaning). Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say someone has to 'shoulder a lot of responsibility' (meaning the are in charge of a lot of things) but you can't say someone has to 'neck a lot of responsibility'.

Idioms with 'shoulder':

have a chip on your shoulder seem angry all the time because you think you have been treated unfairly or feel you are not as good as other people He's got a real chip on his shoulder because he's so short. He thinks he always has to prove how strong manly he is. head and shoulders above a lot better than Of course she's going to win â&#x20AC;&#x201C; she's head and shoulders aboveeveryone else in the competition. a shoulder to cry on someone who is willing to listen to your problems and give you sympathy, emotional support or help and encouragement She's a great boss. If ever you've got any problems you can go to her and she'll give you a shoulder to cry on.

Idioms with 'back':

get someone's back up annoy someone She's late practically every day. It really gets my back up. Why should

I always have to come in on time when she doesn't have to? keep your back covered do something now to make sure that if there is a problem later, you will not be blamed for it I know you don't want to do all this paperwork but you need to keep your back covered in case there's an accident.

Idioms with 'neck':

have to brass neck to do something not be embarrassed to do something I couldn't believe he had the brass neck to ask her how old she was. stick your neck out for someone do something risky or take a chance I told the boss that you were a really reliable worker. I stuck my neck out for you, so don't let me down, OK? be up to your neck be very busy or have a lot of work to do I'd love to come to your party this weekend but I don't think I can. I'm up to my neck just now, revising for my exams. get it in the neck be blamed, criticized or punished for something If I'm late one more time this week, I'll really get it in the neck from the boss.

Vocabulary

Fancy a brew? (informal) Would you like a cup of tea or coffee? our paths cross we meet each other mates (informal) friends hold a grudge have a strong feeling of anger and dislike for a person who you feel has treated you badly

167

Finance vocabulary 2

When things are going well in the economy a demand a need for something to be sold or supplied There was a huge demand for shares in the company when it announced its half-yearly profits. a boom a period of sudden growth in a business or a country's economy, when demand is rising There has been a real boom in investment in China recently. a high turnover a large amount of money earned by a business through the sale of goods or services After years of not making much profit, we started advertising on TV last year, and suddenly we had a very high turnover. bullish optimistic or expecting the price of stocks and shares to increase or rise The market was bullish after the top 100 companies posted a better than expected profits announcement this morning.

When things are going badly in the economy a credit crunch a situation when banks greatly reduce the amount of money they lend to one another. This results in loans and mortgages becoming more expensive (or having higher interest rates) for customers a recession a period of time when there is negative economic growth or when the economy of a country doesn't perform or grow as much or as successfully as it usually does After the war, the country was in a recession for ten years. panic selling selling stocks and shares at any price or a much lower one than usual As the price of shares tumbled, there was panic selling on Wall Street. wiped off taken off the value of stocks and shares It was a terrible day for our company on the stock market today. Hundreds of dollars were wiped off the value of our shares. bearish pessimistic or expecting the price of stocks and shares to decrease or fall

The overall share price is expected to remain bearish while profits continue to be low this year. stagnation a situation when a business or the economy is growing slowly, or not at all There is stagnation in the tourism industry after many years of growth. stagflation an economic situation in which prices are rising, unemployment is high and there is little or no economic growth One of the reasons for the global stagflation of the 1970s was the huge increase in the price of oil.

When things are improving in the economy rally / recover increase or improve (after being in a low or bad condition) Most global stock markets rallied after investors heard the news of a coordinated interest rate cut. The markets recovered after the government announced its package of measures to help the economy.

Vocabulary to stump up (informal) to pay an amount of money for something, especially when you don't want to What's the damage? (informal) How much does it cost? bound to certain to international calls phone calls between people in two different countries homesick unhappy because you are away from home or your country for a long time

168

Can and could

We use 'can' to talk about someone's ability to do something.

Positive and negative forms: The positive - can + base verb (infinitive without 'to'): She can swim even though she's only four. He can speak seven European languages. They can sing really well. The negative - cannot or can't + base verb (infinitive without 'to'): She cannot tie her shoelaces yet. He can't speak Japanese. They can't whistle. Present, past and future: We use can in the present: She can play the guitar but she can't read music. You can paint brilliantly. We use could in the past: He could play the piano well when he was young but he stopped practising and can only play it a little now. She lived in Germany for five years so she could speak then but she's forgotten it all now. However, if we are talking about overcoming difficulty or about doing something in a specific situation we use was/were able to ormanaged to + base verb: Alice said 'I've managed to get somewhere to stay'. He hadn't done much revision but somehow he was able to pass the exam. There is no future form of can. If we want to talk about abilities in the future, we use will be able to + base verb (infinitive without 'to'): After a few more lessons, I hope I'll be able to make a perfect chocolate cake. If you keep practising, you'll be able to sing like a real professional soon. However, we can use can in the future if we are deciding now about what to do in the future: Can you pick up the kids after school on Friday? A: Do you want to go to the cinema tomorrow? B: OK. I can buy the tickets at lunch-time, if you like.

Conditional: We use could in conditionals to mean would be able to: She could come with us if she had a ticket. You could become a manager if you had more sales experience. Vocabulary:

nurses' home accommodation (flats, bed-sits, halls of residence) for a hospital's nursing staff which is owned or managed by the hospital to fend for yourself to take care of and look after yourself without help from anyone else observation statement or comment about something you have seen or heard folks (informal) family

169

Environmental vocabulary

Words with 'environment': the environment the natural world, including the air, water and land in or on which people, animals and plants live We need to do more to protect the environment from pollution. environmental relating to the natural world and the effect humans have on it Using cars and burning coal are examples of things that may causeenvironmental problems for all of us in the future. environmentally friendly / green designed not to damage or harm the environment He says using environmentally friendly washing powder means that fewer chemicals go into our waterways every year. She's very green, she never drives a car. She bikes everywhere. environmentalist person who wants to protect the environment from being damaged by human activities She's an environmentalist. She believes that planting trees will help slow down global warming. Environment problems:

carbon footprint an individual's or organisation's total output of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases caused by their everyday actions She's been on three international flights this year, so she's worried about her carbon footprint. the greenhouse effect an increase in the amount of carbon dioxide and other gases in the atmosphere which the majority of scientists think causes global warming Pollution from cars, factories and planes all contribute to what's known as the greenhouse effect. global warming / climate change human-caused increase in the global temperature. Scientists prefer to use the term 'climate change' because some parts of the world may become colder rather than warmer We need to lower our greenhouse gas emissions so that we can reduce the threat of global warming. pollution damage caused to water, air, etc. by harmful substances or waste Many of the workers complained that the pollution from the factories was making them ill. Environment solutions: a bottle bank a large container which people put empty bottles and other glass objects into so that the glass can be used again We use the bottle bank in town to recycle our green, brown and clear bottles. recycle collect and treat rubbish to produce useful materials which can be used again It's possible to recycle plastic drink cups to make pencils. organic not using artificial chemicals in the growing of plants or raising animals for food and other products Even though organic food is a bit more expensive I think it tastes so much better because they don't use any chemicals in making it. conserve energy / electricity / power keep and protect something from waste To conserve electricity, he turned his central heating down and wore more clothes instead. wind farm a place where wind turbines (tall structures with blades that are blown round by the wind) are used to produce electricity from the power of the wind Everyone says they think wind farms are a good idea but no-one actually wants them near their house because they make such a racket. Vocabulary: a wish-list all the things you would like to happen or that someone would give to

you a lick a small amount or thin layer a power-shower a shower that gives a very strong or powerful flow of water 170

Prefixes 3

You can change the meaning of some words by adding prefixes(extra letters at the beginning of words). For example, you can change the meaning of 'decorate' to mean 'decorate again' by adding 're' to the beginning of it to make 'redecorate'. When Sally said 'when we reopen' she meant 'when we open the cafe again after the holiday'. Here are some common prefixes and their meanings:

Again, do/be more than: re - again count - recount (v): check the results of a competition or election again do - redo (v): do something again sit - resit (v): take an exam again because you failed it the first time you took it out - do/be more than run - outrun (v): run faster that someone or something else fox - outfox (v): get an advantage over someone by being more clever or more cunning that him/her dated - outdated (adj): out-of-date or no longer suitable for modern purposes Little, very small, too little/not enough: mini - little series - miniseries (n): series of programmes broadcast over a short period of time bus - minibus (n): small bus skirt - miniskirt (n): short skirt micro - very small electronics - microelectronics (n): the study, science or manufacture of very small electronic parts for computers etc.

surgery - microsurgery (n): medical operations that are done using very small pieces of equipment and powerful microscopes brewery - micro brewery (n): small independent business that produces small amounts of special beers under - too little/not enough paid - underpaid (adj): not getting enough money for the work you are doing cooked - undercooked (adj): not cooked for long enough staffed - understaffed (adj): with not enough workers to do a particular job quickly or efficiently Badly, wrongly: mal - bad/badly treat - maltreat (v): deal with someone in a cruel or bad way function - malfunction (v): not work properly or not work at all nourished - malnourished (adj): becoming ill because you have not eaten enough food or the right food mis - wrong/wrongly count - miscount (v): wrongly calculate a number fire - misfire (v): not work properly (about a gun or engine) fit - misfit (n): a person who doesn't belong in a group because he or she acts differently to others in the group Using hyphens: Most words which are created with prefixes don't use hyphens. However, some do, for example, co (co-operate), pro (pro-government) and non (non-starter). Some words with prefixes are hyphenated and other words with the same prefix aren't. For example, costar and coexist or multilayeredand multi-purpose. There's no hard and fast rule why this is the case. Use a good English-English dictionary to help you. Vocabulary: moving back to returning to live with loyal firm and not changing your support for a business or product cuppa (informal) cup (of tea or coffee) appointing choosing someone for a job or giving it to him/her think them over consider them or think about them 171

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Idioms: memory

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. Khalid meant to say 'Let me see if I can jog your memory' which means 'Let me try to help you remember' (the metaphorical meaning). He didn't mean that he was going to run over Tim's brain (the literal meaning). Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say something has 'slipped your mind' (meaning you forgot something) but you can't say something has 'fallen over in your mind'.

Idioms - be able to remember:

know something by heart / learn something (off) by heart

able to memorise something My mum can recite more than 10 long speeches from Shakespeare. She learned them all off by heart when she was still at school. it rings a bell it's familiar, you think you perhaps know it, but you aren't sure Tony McDonald. Yes, I think I know him. The name certainly rings a bell but I can't quite place him. Maybe I went to school with him. have a memory like an elephant able to remember a lot of things easily for a long period of time He forgot their wedding anniversary only once in 15 years. But she's got a memory like an elephant and she's never forgiven him or forgotten about it. Idioms - forget or be unable to remember:

something escapes me I can't remember something I recognised her face but her name escapes me. it slipped my mind I forgot it I was meant to meet her for a drink but it completely slipped my mind. I hope she'll still be speaking to me on Monday when I see her in the office. rack my brains think very hard about something in an effort to remember it I racked my brains but I just couldn't remember where I knew her from. have a memory like a sieve often forget things easily Have you got a memory like a sieve? How many times do I have to remind you about your own mother's birthday? go in one ear and out the other when you forget something very quickly There's no point telling her anything when she's watching TV. It'll go in one ear and out the other. lost my train of thought I forgot what I had been thinking about or talking about I was in the middle of answering a question in a job interview when I completely lost my train of thought. It was so embarrassing, I had to ask one of the interviewers to remind me what I had been saying! on the tip of my tongue I can almost remember it but not quite I know I should know the answer to this. The answer's on the tip of my tongue. I just can't seem to remember it.

Vocabulary:

pack put things into a suitcase, bag, box or other container to last to continue being useable They'll kill me! (informal) They will be very angry with me 172

Hotel vocabulary

Types of hotels: budget hotel economical or cheap hotel that is usually part of a chain (or group) of hotels; one that's cheaper than a business hotel or a 5-star hotel The flights were so expensive we decided to save some money on accommodation. She didn't like how basic the rooms were, but thebudget hotel was definitely the right price! family hotel hotel that caters for parents with children. It usually has special services like a free baby-sitter or planned activities for children When the kids were young we always stayed in family hotels on holiday. It was such a treat to have a baby-sitter there all the time so Linda and I could go out by ourselves. five-star hotel hotel that is of very good quality We had a fantastic weekend. We stayed in a wonderful five-star hotel and were totally spoiled. There was a swimming pool, a spa and a beauty salon. Jobs in hotels: receptionist person who deals with your reservation, booking and payment in a hotel. He or she usually works behind a large desk in the main area of the

hotel lobby (or entrance hall) You need to ask the receptionist if you want a wake-up call in the morning. porter person who carries your suitcases to your room when you first check into a hotel Just give your bags to the porter. He'll take them up. concierge person who greets you at the hotel entrance. He or she can also help you hail a taxi, recommend restaurants, theatres etc. in the area The concierge said the Italian restaurant on the corner had really good food. chambermaid person (usually a woman) who cleans hotel rooms She works as a chambermaid and has to make hundreds of beds every day. housekeeper person who is the manager of all the chambermaids in a hotel We need all the chambermaids to work weekends when the hotel is very busy. If you can't work on Saturday, you'll need to speak to thehousekeeper. Types of hotel rooms: single room a room for one person with a single bed (a bed for one person) I'd like a double room for my husband and me and a single room for my brother. double room a room for two people with a double bed (a bed that two people can sleep in) My wife and I would like a double room for three nights please. twin room a room for two people with two single beds My sister and I always book a twin room when we go on holiday together. family room a room for parents and children to stay in together; it usually has a double bed and some single beds and sometimes a cot for a baby We'd like to book a family room please. We're two adults, a three yearold and a baby of seven months. Vocabulary: per night each night, for one night isn't my fault I'm not to blame. I didn't do anything wrong charging me extra making me pay more money than usual for something

173

Food vocabulary 2

Sweet food: a dessert / a pudding (informal) / afters (informal) a sweet dish usually eaten at the end of a meal OK. Who's for pudding? What's for afters? custard thick sweet yellow sauce (made from eggs, milk and sugar) used to pour over ice-cream or other sweet dishes I love apple pie and custard. trifle a sweet cold dish made of fruit, sponge cake, custard and cream We always have trifle for pudding on Christmas day. Idioms about sweet food: have a sweet tooth like sweets, chocolates and other sugary food When I was young I had a really sweet tooth but now I like savoury food much more. be a piece of cake be very easy I thought the exam was going to be very difficult but it turned out tobe a piece of cake. I got 98%! the icing on the cake the best thing about a very positive experience We had a fantastic holiday in New York. We went to Central Park and saw the Statue of Liberty too but the icing on the cake was sitting in a cafe right next to Al Pacino. It was amazing to be so close to such a famous actor! takes the biscuit most annoying or shocking example of something I've heard your excuses for being late a million times but this one really does take the biscuit! have your cake and eat it have or do two good things that it is usually impossible to have or do at

the same time You can't have your cake and eat it too. You can't go out having fun every night of the week and then get good marks in your exams. If you really want to go to university, you're going to have to do a lot more studying. Words and expressions with 'food': food miles the distance food travels from where it is produced to where it is eaten or sold These pineapples come from Brazil. I know you love them but do you ever think they've travelled more than 1500 food miles to get to your kitchen? a foodie (informal) a person who likes food, enjoys cooking and talking about and tasting new types of food He's a real foodie. He's always tying out new recipes and talking about which new restaurants he's been to. food for thought something that makes you think seriously or a lot about a particular topic The politicians gave us a lot of food for thought about how each of us can help the economy. Vocabulary: home cooking food that's made at home (rather than in a restaurant) resist stop yourself from doing something that you want to do dumplings small parcels of meat and vegetables covered with dough (flour and water mixed together) treacle sponge sweet dish made of eggs, flour, sugar and a sweet dark thick liquid undoing the cause of someone's failure, or of their lack of will power scales short for weighing scales, a piece of equipment you can use to find out how much you weigh wants a word wants to have a short conversation 174

See and hear

Khalid said 'I'm glad you're seeing sense'. That means 'I'm glad you're being sensible or reasonable'. And when the manager said 'I hear what you're saying' he meant 'I understand what you're saying'. Here are some more expressions and phrasal verbs with 'see' and 'hear':

See: see both sides be able to understand the two different opinions in an argument or debate I see both sides of the green argument - I think we all need to cut down on the amount of energy we use, but I still really need my car! have seen it all before have a lot of experience of something and so aren't surprised or shocked She's been a teacher for 20 years so she's seen it all before. There's nothing teenagers can do that will surprise her. see the back of someone not have to deal with someone or something unpleasant I'll be glad to see the back of her. She's made my life miserable in this office for years. see something coming (a mile off) realise that something is about to happen Once he presented her with the red roses, you could see it coming. And sure enough, he asked her to marry him then and there, right in the middle of the restaurant! Hear: can't hear yourself think not be able to hear people talking because a place is so noisy The band were great for the first 10 minutes but eventually we had to leave because we couldn't hear ourselves think. Do you hear me? used to emphasise what you are saying, especially if you think someone hasn't been paying attention to what you've been saying I said, I want you to tidy your room, now! Do you hear me? I'm serious.

never hear the end of something used to say that someone will continue to tell you about achieving something for a long time after they have achieved it If her daughter wins this competition, we'll never hear the end of it. She's so proud of her children she never thinks that people might not want to hear about them all the time! See - phrasal verbs: see about something / doing something deal with or organise something Can you see about those papers I left on my desk? It's mum's birthday next week, I'll need to see about buying her a present. see someone out go to the door of a building or room with someone who doesn't live or work there, when they are leaving Thanks for coming in for the interview. Kevin will see you out now. Hear - phrasal verbs: hear from someone be contacted by someone by phone, letter, email etc. I haven't heard from Bill since he went to university. I wish he would write just so I know he hasn't forgotten about me. hear of something learn about something, find out that something has happened I was very surprised to hear of his promotion. You know he's only been with the company of two months. Vocabulary: cancel decide to stop an order for goods or services that you no longer want change your mind form a new opinion or make a new decision which is different to the one you had before teething problems problems which happen in the early stages of doing something new mix up mistake compromise agreement in an argument when the people involved reduce their demands or change their opinion in order to agree 175

Water vocabulary

Water words: waterproof material which does not absorb water or is not affected when it is immersed in water You can't go out in just that light jacket. It isn't waterproof at all. You'll get soaked! waters break when liquid from around a pregnant woman's baby flows out of her body because the baby is about to be born They were in the supermarket when her waters suddenly broke and they had to rush her to the hospital in a taxi. And just two hours later she was the proud mother of twins! water wings a pair of plastic rings that people (especially children) can put round their arms to help them float when they are learning how to swim She doesn't let her kids use water wings. She thinks it's better for them to learn to swim without help. She says if you use water wings, you'll take longer to learn to swim. running water water which comes out of a tap or which is supplied to a house by pipe Since the storm, we haven't had any running water. We've had to buy bottled water for cooking. waterfall where water flows over a very high cliff or rock and down to another level We had a lovely holiday in Canada. One of the best days was when we went to see Niagara Falls. The waterfalls are incredibly loud but they look so impressive. water pistol a toy gun that you can fill with water and then spray other people with water When we were young we loved filling our water pistols on a hot summer's day and soaking each other with them. water polo a team sport played in a swimming pool. A team has six players and one goalkeeper. The winner of the game is the team that scores more goals Do you know you have to swim almost all the time during a water polo game and you can't touch the sides or bottom of the pool?

tread water float vertically in water by moving your legs and arms up and down After the plane crashed into the ocean, they managed to stay alive bytreading water and waiting for the rescue workers to find them. Water idioms: blood is thicker than water family connections are always more important than other types of relationships or friendship I know she's your best friend right now but just remember that blood is thicker than water. Don't expect her to stand by you when you have real problems. You'll come running back to your mother then, won't you? tread water not be advancing in any way He seems to be treading water in that job. He's been in the same position since he joined the company three years ago. turn on the waterworks start crying in order to make someone feel sorry for you As soon as the teacher caught her cheating in the test, she turned on the waterworks. But it did no good. She still failed the exam. water under the bridge problems that someone had in the past that they don't want to worry about now because they happened a long time ago and can't now be changed We almost split up when we were first going out because he said his career was more important than settling down with me but that'swater under the bridge now. We've been happily married for almost 25 years now! Vocabulary: flooded filled or covered with water, especially in a way that causes problems in charge the person who has control of or is responsible for something packed in (informal) stopped working (of machines or electronic devices) What would I do without you? How could I cope or survive without your help? 176

Suffixes 2

Nouns: Suffixes are added to the end of words in order to change the word class. For example, from the verb 'to photograph something' you can make the adjective 'photographic', the nouns 'photographer' and 'photography' and the adverb 'photographically'. In this case, there are two nouns: 'Photographer' is the person who takes a photograph. 'Photography' is the subject or activity of taking photographs. There are many suffixes which can be used to form nouns. Here is a selection of those with an indication of what type of noun they produce. These nouns often refer to slightly abstract ideas such as states or processes, rather than to concrete objects and things. -er, -or, -ian, -ent, -ant: a person who does something photographer, interpreter translator, inventor electrician, politician student, patient assistant, immigrant Alexander Graham Bell was the inventor of the telephone. -ist: a person who specialises in an activity or area of study, or who is a member of a group with particular beliefs artist, psychologist feminist, communist I would love to be an artist, but sadly I can't draw very well! -ee: a person who has something done to him or her interviewee, employee I don't want to be an employee all my life. I'm going to start my own business and become an employer! -hood: a state that is closely associated with a period of time childhood, adulthood, motherhood I was probably happiest during my childhood as I could just play all the time. -ology: a subject (often academic) of study biology, psychology, criminology, sociology

Is sociology an Arts or a Sciences subject at university? -ion: a state or activity exhibition, institution investigation, action The police started their investigation last week, but they haven't found any clues yet. -age: a state or process shortage, storage In some countries there is a shortage of water which means they can't grow crops and therefore many people go hungry. -ness: a state or quality happiness, weakness Happiness is good for your health, which is why some people say that laughter is the best medicine. Spelling changes: As a general rule, if the base word ends in a vowel, and the suffix begins with a vowel, you will remove the final vowel of the base word. For example, translate (vb) - translator institute (vb, n) - institution investigate (vb) - investigation store (vb) - storage Vocabulary: decorations something pretty that you put onto another thing to make it more attractive crackers small paper tubes, which contain presents or small toys, and that make an exploding sound when they are pulled open staff shortage when there are not enough people to do a company's work 177

The third conditional

A conditional is used to talk about a possible or imaginary situation

(the condition) and the consequences (or the result) of it.

The third conditional - meaning We use the third conditional when we want to imagine a different past to that which actually occurred. In this episode of the flatmates, Sophie says the following to Alice. "We wouldn't have had anywhere near such a good Christmas if you hadn't been there to cook the turkey!" The real situation in the past was that Alice cooked the turkey and everybody had a good Christmas. When Sophie speaks, she imagines how the past would have been different, if Alice had not been there and had not cooked the turkey. The third conditional gives the imaginary result, or consequence, of an unreal past. The third conditional - form A basic conditional sentence has two clauses, namely the condition and the consequence. In the following example, the condition is the first clause and the consequence is the second clause. If you hadn't been there, we wouldn't have enjoyed Christmas so much. For the condition: If + past perfect For the consequence: would + have done (the perfect infinitive) For example: If we had left the house earlier, we would have caught the train. If he hadn't been so lazy, he wouldn't have failed his exam. It is possible to put the consequence before the condition. In that case, we do not usually separate the clauses with a comma. We would have caught the train if we had left the house earlier. He wouldn't have failed his exam if he hadn't been so lazy. Would or might? We use would to show that we are certain about the consequence. If we are not certain about the consequence we can use might. If he had studied harder, he would have passed the exam. If he had studied harder, he might have passed the exam. If only ... We often use 'if only + past perfect' to express a strong regret about the past.

If only I had studied harder. The third conditional - a variation The basic third conditional expresses an imagined past result of an unreal past condition. If I had studied harder, I would have passed the exam. In that situation, the reality is that the person did not study hard, and he or she failed the exam. However, sometimes the imagined result could be true now, at the moment of speaking. For example, If I hadn't gone to university, I wouldn't be a teacher now. In that situation, the reality is that the person did go to university, and he or she is a teacher now. If the imagined result, or consequence, could be true now, we use 'would do', not 'would have done'. But, because the condition is still an unreal past, we use the past perfect after 'if'. If I hadn't gone to university, I wouldn't be a teacher now. If Alice had stayed in the flat over Christmas, she wouldn't knowSophie. Contractions It is common to use contractions with this language, particularly when it is spoken. If I'd studied harder, I'd have passed the exam If we use the negative forms - hadn't, wouldn't - we do not usually contract 'had' and 'would'. Vocabulary: fireworks explosive devices that create patterns of light in the sky, usually used at celebrations and big parties to get to know someone to meet someone and then become friends with them turkey a large bird that is often eaten for dinner at Christmas in the UK, and at Thanksgiving in the USA 178

Phrasal verbs with 'go'

Phrasal verbs, or multi-word verbs, are verbs that are combined with one or two particles (a preposition or adverb), for example, 'up' or 'down', to make verbs with new meanings. These new meanings are usually non-literal. For example, to pickmeans to select or choose (she picked him for her team), but to pick on someone means to criticize someone repeatedly and unfairly (Tim always picks on Jack because he thinks Jack is lazy). Phrasal verbs often have more than one meaning. Also, many verbs combine with several different prepositions. Here are some phrasal verbs that use the verb 'go', with some of their different meanings:

go along: a. to proceed or continue to happen The party was going along fine until the police arrived. Then we had to turn off the music. b. go along with someone: to agree with someone or something I go along with what you say. Let's see what the others think about your idea. go by: a. for time to pass Last month went by so quickly. I can't believe it is nearly your birthday! b. to base a decision on something Going by last year's sales figures, we'll need extra staff over summer. You should always go by the facts, not others opinions. c. to use a different name for yourself When I first met her she went by the name of Sarah, but now she calls herself Zara. go out: a. to leave your house to go somewhere, usually for fun I went out last night and had a great time at the nightclub. Alice went out with the other nurses on New Year's Eve. b. to have a romantic relationship with someone Bob and Sally have been going out for ages. When do you think they'll get engaged?

Have you heard? Tony is going out with Sarah! go down: a. to sink below a surface, usually water The Titanic went down incredibly quickly after it hit the iceberg. The sun goes down at 5.50 p.m. today. b. to become less or decrease House prices will continue to go down next year. c. to be received or accepted in some way The decision to cancel the Christmas holiday went down really badly. The staff are threatening to go on strike. The fireworks went down really well with everyone. It was a great display. d. to go down with something: to become ill Helen went down with 'flu at Christmas. go off: a. to stop working, (especially of electrical things) The lights went off suddenly. Fortunately, we had some candles in the kitchen. b. to stop liking someone or something I went off the idea of buying a motorbike when I found out how dangerous they are. Helen went off her food when she was ill; she didn't want to eat anything. c. for food to lose its freshness and become rotten This milk has gone off. Have you got any more in the fridge? You can tell when meat has gone off by smelling it. go over: a. to check something carefully for mistakes Before you hand in your essay, go over it and try to spot any spelling mistakes. b. to repeat something a lot in order to learn it As an actor, he spends a lot of time going over his lines so that he's word perfect. c. to repeatedly think about something, that is perhaps confusing or emotionally stressful I keep going over the meeting in my head. I wish I had said something about their plan to sack so many people. Perhaps I could have changed their minds. Vocabulary: to go down with 'flu to become ill with influenza (a very heavy cold) to go off your food to not want to eat anything, to lose your appetite

179

Prefixes 4

You can change the meaning of some words by adding prefixes(extra letters at the beginning of words). For example, you can change the meaning of 'polite' to mean 'not polite' by adding 'im' to the beginning of it to make 'impolite', or you can create the opposite 'efficient' by adding 'in' to the beginning of it to make 'inefficient'. Here are some common prefixes and their meanings:

Against: anti - against aging – anti-aging (adj): describes substances that are meant to prevent or limit the process of becoming old depressant – anti-depressant (n): a drug to help people feel less sad or anxious racist – anti-racist (adj): against the unfair treatment of belong to other racial groups from you counter – against argument – counter-argument (n): an argument or point of view against another argument or suggestion intuitive – counterintuitive (adj): the opposite of what seems obvious or natural productive – counterproductive (adj): having the opposite result to the one you intended Not, opposite: dis – not, opposite appear – disappear (v): go somewhere where you cannot be seen or found agree – disagree (n): have a different opinion or idea from someone else similar – dissimilar (adj): different from someone or something un – not, opposite fair – unfair (n): not treating people in a equal way, or not morally correct available – unavailable (adj): not able to go somewhere to meet someone or do something competitive – uncompetitive (n): not able to compete successfully with other businesses or products

One hundredth, one thousandth: centi – one hundredth metre – centimetre (n): one hundredth of a metre litre – centilitre (n): one hundredth of a metre milli – one thousandth second – millisecond (n): one thousandth of a second metre – millimetre (n): one thousandth of a metre Using hyphens: Most words which are created with prefixes don't use hyphens. However, some do, for example, co (co-operate), pro (pro-government) and non (non-starter). Some words with prefixes are hyphenated and other words with the same prefix aren't. For example, costar and coexist or multilayeredand multi-purpose. There's no hard and fast rule why this is the case. Use a good English-English dictionary to help you. Vocabulary: politely in a socially correct way that shows you are aware of and care about other people's feelings: efficiently in a way that uses time and energy well change take something back in order to get a different one compensation money that is paid to someone who has been inconvenienced

180

Homophones 4

A homophone is a word which is pronounced the same as another word but spelt differently. For example, right (That's the right answer) and write (Did you write to grandma and thank her for the present she sent you?).

sun and son: The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. They've got two daughters and a son. hear and here: Speak up! I can't hear a word you're saying. Come here. I want to speak to you. ad and add: Our marketing campaign will be ads on TV and radio. To make the cake, first add the eggs to the flour and sugar. finish and Finnish: You need to finish this report by 5 o'clock tomorrow. The Finnish, Norwegian and Dutch finance ministers will be meeting in Helsinki next week. bear and bare: In the zoo you can see bears, elephants and tigers. She was running in the park in her bare feet last summer and she cut her foot on a broken bottle. find and fined: I can't find my keys anywhere. Have you seen them? She was fined for smoking on the train. She didn't realise smoking was banned on public transport. die and dye: If you don't water plants, they die. I've decided to dye this old white T-shirt red. Do you think it'll look good like that? awful and offal (in American English and in some regional British and Irish accents): He's awful at maths but he's really good at English and history. I like steak and chicken but I hate offal. I just don't like the taste of liver, heart or brains. key and quay: Here's your room key sir. We hope you have a pleasant stay in our hotel.

The boat will be docked in the quay for the next two weeks. band and banned: Julie and her brother play in a band together. She's on guitar and he's on drums. After she was caught smoking in the library for the third time, she wasbanned for a month. She hated not being allowed to use the computers there so it taught her a valuable lesson. aid and aide: After the earthquake lots of countries sent aid. Some sent food, others sent people to help with the rescue effort. She worked as an aide in the Prime Minister's office for three years. Vocabulary: a racket (informal) a loud noise that goes on for a long time you can say that again I agree with you totally give me a hand help me chores (informal) job or pieces of work which are often boring or unpleasant but which you have to do regularly (for example, washing the dishes or tidying your room) 181

Animal vocabulary 5

There are some words and expressions in English we use to describe animals which can also be used to talk about people. Animal parts:

horns 1. two hard, pointed, often curved parts that grow from the top of the head of some animals (e.g. bulls, goats) Don't make the bull angry or be might hurt you with his horns.

2. lock horns (expression) to begin an argument or fight As soon as she started talking politics, they locked horns. a wing 1. a part of the body which a bird or insect uses for flying The eagle spread her wings and flew far away. 2. a horizontal part of an aircraft that sticks out from the side of it and supports it when it is flying I don't like window seats on a plane. I hate seeing the wing move through the clouds. a tail 1. a part of an animal's body, usually sticking out from the base of the back You know when a dog is happy because he wags his tail. 2. the tail wagging the dog the least important part of a situation has too much influence over the most important part or a large group has to do something to satisfy a small group Talk about the tail wagging the dog! She's only 5 years old but decides what the family should do every weekend. Animal sounds:

howl 1. a long, sad sound a dog or wolf makes if it's in pain 2. make a loud sound, usually to express pain, sadness or another strong emotion She howled in pain when she fell off her bike and broke her arm. roar 1. a long, loud, deep sound an animal (lion or tiger) makes 2. shout loudly 'Stop right now!' he roared. grunt 1. the sound a pig makes 2. a short low sound a person makes instead of speaking Talk to me. Don't just sit there behind your newspaper, grunting! Bird idioms and expressions:

put all your eggs in one basket depend on one person or plan of action for your success I know you're confident about getting that job but I don't think you should put all your eggs in one basket. Why don't you apply for a few more, just in case? take someone under your wing protect and take care for someone When my niece came to live in London she was a bit lonely so I took her under my wing till she settled in and made new friends at work. be no spring chicken be no longer young He might dye his hair and wear the latest styles but he's no spring chicken and he's not fooling me!

a nest egg a sum of money that you have saved or kept for a special purpose (for example, for when you retire) We've saved a little bit every month since my daughter was born and now that she's ready to go off to university our nest egg will help pay for her education. be as free as a bird completely free to do as you want Now that she's retired she's as free as a bird and is already planning her round-the-world cruise. Vocabulary:

Lead the way Go first and show me where to go I'll hold you to that I'll make sure that you do as you promised ages a long time to have a go to try

182

Finance vocabulary 3

International finance:

IMF Short for the International Monetary Fund, a part of the United Nations which encourages international trade and gives financial help to poor countries or countries in temporarily difficult economic situations If the economic situation gets much worse, the government will have to ask the IMF to help by loaning us huge amounts of cash. WTO Short for World Trade Organisation, an international organisation that controls trade between countries The Director General of the WTO says he's disappointed that talks in Geneva on trade liberalisation have not reached an agreement.

protectionism the actions of a country to help its trade or industry by taxing goods bought from other countries The government sees these higher taxes on imported goods as a form of unfair protectionism. global economic crisis serious, negative financial situation which affects a lot of countries around the world Almost all the major currencies have been affectedly by the currentglobal economic crisis. The economy:

downturn a reduction in the economy or business activities The economic downturn has meant that factories are producing less and as a result are making more and more of their staff redundant. slump when prices, values or sales fall suddenly There's been a real slump in house prices in the last few months and we're finding it very difficult to get people interested in buying our house just now. contract become smaller The drop in the dollar meant the economy contracted very quickly. Finance and houses:

negative equity when a house becomes less valuable than the amount of money you borrowed in order to buy it It's the wrong time to try and sell our house just now. The market has slumped so much, we won't make a profit. We'd make a loss, actually and then we'd be facing negative equity. mortgage an agreement between you and a bank which allows you to borrow money to buy a house or flat. Most people repay the amount (along with interest) monthly over 20 or 25 years We're almost ready to retire and have just finished paying off ourmortgage. default on a mortgage fail to pay your monthly mortgage More and more people are defaulting on their mortgages in this recession which means that the banks are repossessing more and more homes. Vocabulary:

don't take that tone with me don't speak to me in that way (in an angry way, a cheeky way, a rude

way etc.) I'm warning you I'm letting you know that I'm very serious about what I just said (i.e. don't speak to me in a cheeky way) transformed changed completely so that it is improved stretch (informal) have enough of something (here, money)

183

Idioms: 'no'

Idioms use language metaphorically rather than literally. When Tim told Khalid there was 'no point crying over spilt milk' he was making a joke because he was using the idiom metaphorically and literally. Usually we only use idioms metaphorically. This idiom means 'don't get upset about something in the past that you can't change'. The literal meaning is 'don't cry when you spill some milk'. Idioms are also fixed groups of words so you can't change the wording of an idiom. For example, you can say 'there's no smoke without fire' (meaning if bad or unpleasant things are said about someone or something, there is probably a good reason for it) but you can't say 'there's no smoke without flames'.

Idioms with 'no': no laughing matter very serious It's not funny! Wait till you're stuck on a train outside the station for 3 hours. You'll see it's no laughing matter. there's no fool like an old fool even though someone is old it doesn't mean he or she won't make silly mistakes I can't believe my grandpa is going to marry a woman 30 years younger than him. But you know what they say, there's no fool like an old fool. there's no time like the present it is better to do something now rather than leave it till later because you might not do it No, you can't leave your homework until Sunday evening. Who knows what might happened over the weekend. Come now, there's no time

like the present, is there? no ifs and buts said if you don't want to argue with someone and you want them to do what you told them to do Mother: Turn off the TV and get upstairs now and tidy your room. Son: But mumâ&#x20AC;Ś Mother: No ifs and buts. Just do it. no news is good news if you haven't heard any information about someone or something it's because nothing bad has happened otherwise you would have been told about it before I still haven't heard if I've got the job but I suppose no news is good news. in no time very quickly or very soon I know you're hungry but don't worry, dinner will be ready in no time. a no-no something which is unsuitable or unacceptable They're really anti-smoking so lighting up in their house is a real no-no. no hard feelings not feeling angry with someone after a disagreement or argument Sorry about what I said yesterday. No hard feelings, OK? make no bones about something not attempt to hide your feelings about something you don't like The waiters were rude and the food was awful. And she made no bones about telling the manager about it. cut no ice with someone not cause someone to change their opinion or decision I don't want to hear another one of your stories about why you're late. Your excuses cut no ice with me. a rolling stone (gathers no moss) a person who is always travelling and changing jobs has the advantage of having no responsibilities but also has disadvantages of having no permanent job or settled place to live Jenny loved travelling and being a free spirit. She was a real rolling stone before she finally settled down. a no-go area a place you are not allowed to go That room is for the teachers only. It's a no-go area for us students. Vocabulary: give it a go try teats parts of a female mammal's body through which milk passes to her babies or which are used for people to milk the animal I've got it (informal) I can do it successfully

184

Expressions with 'hand' and 'foot'

There are lots of English expressions, idioms and proverbs which refer to hands and feet. For example, Alice says Khalid and Tim were "waited on hand and foot" by Tim's mum. She meant Tim's mum did everything for them, they didn't have to do anything for themselves. Here's a selection of some common expressions using hands andfeet.

Hands: hand in glove working together, often to do something in a dishonest way The politician had to resign when the newspapers found out he was working hand in glove with the construction companies which built the hospital. sleight of hand hiding of the truth so that you can gain an advantage By some sleight of hand with economic figures, the government has managed to make it look like the economy is improving. lose / make money hand over fist make or lose money very quickly During the hot summer months he sells ice-cream on the beach and makes money hand over fist. count on the fingers of one hand something that happens very rarely or exists in very small numbers You can count the number of times he's offered to buy the coffees on the fingers of one hand. have someone eating out of the palm of your hand / have someone in the palm of your hand have complete control over someone and to be able to make her /him do anything you want She delivered such a great speech, she had us all in the palm of her hand. tip your hand say what you are going to do or what you believe Even though everyone is sure the two stars will be getting married soon, this major Hollywood star film star refused to tip her handabout her wedding plans. Feet:

my foot used to mean that you don't believe what someone has just told you She says she can't afford to come out with us this evening. Can't afford it my foot! She just doesn't like us, that's all. from head to foot / toe covering your body completely It started raining during the children's football match and before long both teams were covered in mud from head to toe. They loved it! put your best foot forward try as hard as you can Don't worry about the interview. Just put your best foot forward and if you don't know the answer, don't be afraid to tell them you don't know. I'm sure you'll do fine. put your foot down use your authority to stop something happening I didn't mind giving her a lift now and again, but when she started saying she needed to borrow the car, I just put my foot down. not put a foot wrong not make any mistakes or do anything wrong He's the golden boy in the office. No matter how rude he is to the rest of us, as far as the boss is concerned, he can't put a foot wrong. Vocabulary: A city boy like you? Don't make me laugh! You're from the city. I can't take what you said seriously (that you were able to work on the farm) Don't mock Don't laugh at me. I'm being serious

Episode 185: Language Point

Catch and throw The words catch and throw each have more than one meaning and they are used in lots of English expressions and idioms too. For example, Khalid said "I didn't quite catch that" which means he didn't hear what Alice said. Here are some of the meanings of these two words, as well as some common expressions which use catch or throw. Meanings of catch

1. take hold of something, especially something that is moving through the air Throw me the ball and I'll catch it. 2. get an illness / become ill, especially one caused by bacteria or a virus She caught a cold last week and has been off work for the last three days. 3. begin to burn Just a few minutes after the fire started in the kitchen, the rest of the house caught fire. Expressions with catch catch someone's eye get someone's attention, especially by looking at them Can you try to catch the waiter's eye so we can get the bill. a catch-22 (situation) an impossible situation where you are prevented from doing one thing until you have done another thing It's a catch-22. They won't give me the job because they say I don't have any experience but how can I get experience if they won't give me a job! catch someone red-handed find someone while they are in the act of doing something wrong or bad They caught him red-handed trying to steal food in the supermarket. catch your breath begin to breathe correctly again after running, exercising or being out of breath Give me a minute to catch my breath. I've only just come in. catch a few rays / some rays stay outside in the sun for a short period of time I'm going out to the garden for lunch. Want to come out and catch a few rays? Meanings of throw 1. send something through the air with force, using your arms Throw me the ball and I'll catch it. 2. have a party They decided to throw a party for their 10th anniversary. 3. confuse or shock someone or cause difficulty for them She was really thrown when we turned up to visit her. I don't think she was expecting us. Expressions with throw throw your hat in the ring announce your intention of entering a competition or election As soon as the boss said she was retiring, John was the first one tothrow his hat in the ring. He's clearly a very ambitious young man. people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones you shouldn't criticize other people for bad qualities in their character that you have yourself or for things that they do that you do too You can't complain when the other people in the office are late. You're late almost

every day! You know what they say, people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. throw your toys out (of) the pram complain very loudly against a relatively minor problem and behave in a childish, spoilt or rude way She lost the match and didn't even congratulate the other player. She just stormed off the court. She's not going to get very far in tennis if she's going to keep throwing her toys out the pram every time she loses. Vocabulary: SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

layout the way that something (here, the kitchen) is arranged sparkly bright and shiny misery unpleasantness or unhappiness bliss perfect happiness washer-upper (informal) person who does the washing-up (washes the dishes after a meal)

Episode 186: Language Point

Background Sally said to Tim "there are two very different management styleshere." She means that she and Jack manage the cafe in different ways.Here is some more business vocabulary about management styles and leadership qualities. Leadership qualities charisma a special power which some people have naturally which makes them able to influence other people and attract other people's attention, admiration and love I heard the new president speak and she really does have a lot ofcharisma. People couldn't take their eyes off her. integrity the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that you refuse to change She is a woman of great integrity. When she was offered a deal that would have

brought huge profits to the firm but that was very bad for the environment, she didn't hesitate to turn it down. drive energy and determination to achieve things and make things happen He's got real drive. He's great at making sure projects get up and running and that they're completed. determination the ability to continue trying to do something, even if it is difficult Without her determination I don't think the campaign will succeed. dynamism the quality of having a lot of ideas and enthusiasm, of being energetic and forceful She's a young manager with lots of dynamism. She's ready to roll up her sleeves and get to work! vision the ability to imagine how a country, society, business etc. could develop in the future and to plan in a suitable way We need someone who has vision and can help us find creative solutions to our problems. creativity being able to imagine, create or find original and unusual ideas Her creativity is amazing. At meetings she always comes up with original and fresh ways of looking at things. Management styles top-down when decisions are made by a few people in authority (at the top of the organisation) rather than by the people who are affected by the decisions It's all very well asking everyone their opinions but sometimes you just need to take a top-down approach or nothing will get done. bottom-up when decisions are made by consulting and asking people who aren't managers or in charge of an organisation, and their ideas and thoughts influence decisions made at the top of the organisation The firm is committed to an egalitarian way of working. We think that bottomup ideas are much more likely to succeed. distant / remote a manager who makes decisions alone or with other managers only and who communicates with employees in a one-way fashion She's a very distant manager. I don't think I've ever seen her eating in the canteen with the rest of us. She doesn't think that managers and workers should mix. open / approachable a manager who makes is easy to talk to and who communicates with employees in a two-way fashion (i.e. s/he talks as well as listens) I like to think that I'm a very approachable manager. If you've got any problems, remember my door is always open. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

stranger (humorous)

said to someone you know but haven't seen for a long time management styles ways that managers manage people and projects in a working environment the likes of us

people like us

Episode 187: Language Point

People who work in hairdressing hairdresser person who cuts and styles people's hair, usually in a special shop, called a hairdresser's Example: Amy's a great hairdresser. She always cuts my hair in a way that suits my face. barber person who cuts men's hair and trims beards and moustaches, usually in a special shop, called a barber's Example: If it's a special occasion he'll go to his barber for a trim, otherwise he just cuts his hair himself. stylist person who usually works in a hairdresser's and who styles people's hair by cutting it, shaping it, colouring it etc Example: The stylist completely changed how Beth looked. Now her wavy hair is completely straight. Ways you can style your hair / get your hair styled straighten your hair / get your hair straightened make your hair straight, often by using straighteners, an electrical appliance Example: My mum used to straighten her hair by ironing it! It's much easier nowadays with straighteners. dye your hair / get your hair dyed change the colour or shade of your hair by using dye (natural or chemical substance which changes the colour of your hair) Example: I've always wanted to be blonde but I'm too frightened todye my hair. My mum would kill me! bleach your hair / get your hair bleached make your hair blonde by using bleach (a strong chemical) to remove its natural

colour Example: Marilyn Monroe is one of the world's most famous blondes. Lots of woman want to bleach their hair to try to look like her. do your roots / get your roots done make your recently grown hair match the dyed shade of the rest of your hair Example: No-one's going to believe you're a dark-haired beauty with all that grey showing mum! You really should go to the hairdresser's this weekend and get your roots done. Expressions to use at the hairdresser's or barber's a cut and blow-dry your hair is cut and, after it has been washed, it is dried with a hair-dryer Example: I'd like a cut and blow-dry please. a trim when you aren't given a new hair style but when only a small amount (a centimetre or two) of hair is cut off Example: I'm trying to grow my hair just now so I just want a trimplease. a short, back and sides (old-fashioned) / short all over a hairstyle for men in which the hair is cut short at the back and sides, showing the ears Example: The summer's here, so I'd like it short all over please. Example: Now that the weather is getting hotter, could I have a short, back and sides please? Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

catching up talking to someone you haven't seen for a long time and hearing their news paying good money spending an amount of money that someone (here, Alice) thinks is large You've lost me I don't understand what you're talking about steady hands hands that are stable, that don't shake (when I am nervous or frightened)

Episode 188: Language Point

Push and pull

The words push and pull each have more than one meaning and they are used in lots of English expressions and idioms too. For example, Jack said "Sally hasn't exactly been pulling her weight" which means Jack thinks she hasn't been working as hard as him. Here are some of the meanings of these two words, as well as some common expressions which use push or pull. Meanings of push 1. use physical force, especially with your hands, to move something to a different position, usually one that is further away from you Example: She pushed the door open and marched in to the room. 2. use emotional or intellectual force to make someone do or persuade someone to achieve something Example: We're going to have really push ourselves if we're going to finish this report on time. 3. advertise something Example: The magazine is just full of ads pushing make-up and lipstick. Expressions with push push the envelope go to or beyond the limits of what you're allowed to do Example: It's fine to have some nudity in film but his last movie really pushed the envelope there. give someone the push 1 tell someone to leave his / her job Example: She's been given the push. They had to let someone go and since she was the last in, she's the first out. 2 to end a relationship with someone Example: I decided to give her the push when she told me she wasn't serious about our relationship. push the boat out spend a lot of money celebrating something Example: They really pushed the boat out for their wedding. They must have spent a fortune on it. push yourself forward try to make other people notice you and pay attention to you Example: He's always pushing himself forward, trying to get the boss's attention. Meanings of pull 1. move something towards yourself, sometimes using physical effortExample: Can you help me pull this box over there? It's too heavy for me on my own. 2. injure a muscle by stretching it too much Example: He can't play in the match on Saturday because he's pulled a muscle in his leg in training. 3. succeed in starting a sexual or romantic relationship with someone Example: There were loads of beautiful people there last night. Did you pull?

Expressions with pull pull out all the stops do everything you can to make something successful Example: We pulled out all the stops to make the launch a huge success. pull the plug prevent an activity from continuing, especially to stop giving money to fund it Example:They've pulledthe plug on TV advertising so all our marketing now will be on radio and online. pull a fast one successfully deceive someone Example: I can't believe you fell for that old trick. He pulled a fast one on you. Now he's got your money and all you've got is a worthless watch. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

Tell tales out of school Gossip, chit-chat about other people joint-manager when twp people share the role of manager she can talk a good talk she can say she's good at something (but that doesn't mean she can actually do it)

Episode 189: Language Point

Suits The word suit has more than one meaning and it's used in lots of English expressions too. For example, Khalid said "I don't think that would really suit me" which means he doesn't think short hair would look good on him. Here are some of the meanings of suit, as well as some common expressions with it. Meanings of suit 1. jacket and trousers or jacket and skirt that are made from the same material (noun) Example: I'll need to wear a suit for the interview but if I get the job, I'll be able to wear jeans. Everyone wears them in that office. 2. be convenient or not cause too much difficulty for someone (verb) Example: What time suits you? Would 3 o'clock be OK?

3. be right for a particular person, situation or occasion (verb) Example: You should wear green more often. It really suits you. 4. one of the four types of playing cards which have different shapes (noun) Example: The four suits are called clubs, hearts, diamonds and spades. Words with suit swimsuit / bathing suit clothing that you wear when you're swimming or sun-bathing Example: I can't go swimming, I forgot my swimsuit. wet suit piece of clothing, made from rubber, which covers the whole body closely and is meant to keep you warm when you are swimming for long periods, especially in the sea or when it's very cold Example: The surfers in Scotland often have to wear wet suitsbecause the water is so cold there. romper suit (for day-time) sleep suit (for night-time) a single piece of clothing, which covers the whole body, which babies and very young children wear Example: As soon as he's had his bath in the evening, I put the baby into his sleep suit. monkey suit (informal) a formal suit which a man wears Example: I'm going to my cousin's wedding so I'll need to put the oldmonkey suit on. long suit / strong suit special skill or strength that someone has Example: He's very musical. He can play almost any instrument but playing the guitar is his long suit. Expressions with suit Suit yourself (informal) expression used humorously or angrily to mean "do whatever you want to do" Example: I heard you're not coming to the office party. Suit yourself! But you'll regret it. It's going to be great. in your birthday suit not wearing any clothes, naked Example: After I've bathed the baby I usually let him run around in his birthday suit. He always enjoys the freedom of not having his clothes on. follow suit do the same thing as someone else, copy what someone else doesExample: As soon as the boss started wearing jeans, everyone soonfollowed suit. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

clippers a device (usually electric or batter operated) for cutting hair Whoops said when you make a small mistake

even it up make it the same or equal (here, to the other side of his hair) is in is fashionable

Episode 190: Language Point

Optimism look on the bright side find the positive things in a situation and focus on them, rather than thinking about the negative things Example: I know you're upset about splitting up with Jake but look on the bright side, at least you won't have to go to any more boring football matches with him on Saturdays! every cloud's got a silver lining even when something bad happens, there can be a positive resultExample: He was really depressed when he was lost his job. But he ended up starting his own company and he's now a multi-millionaire! So maybe it's true what they say, every cloud's got a silver lining. cross that bridge when we come to it don't worry about possible future problems until they actually happen (because they might not even happen at all) Example: You're right the boss might say no but why not ask her first? If she says no, well, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. see the light at the end of the tunnel notice signs that a situation which has been going on for a long time or has been difficult or bad is beginning to improve Example: As the baby began sleeping through the night, she felt that at last she could see the light at the end of the tunnel. bright-eyed and bushy-tailed eager, optimistic and happy Example: I don't know where he gets all his energy from. Every time I see him, he's always so bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. It's great having him on the team because he's just so enthusiastic about everything. happy as a sand boy / happy as Larry very happy Example: They bought their 3 year-old a really expensive toy but she was as happy as Larry playing with the wrapping paper. She hardly noticed the gift!

Pessimism life's not a bed of roses life is not easy or happy Example:Life's not been a bed of roses for Sharon. She's been divorced twice, she's been ill most of her life and both her children died last year in a train accident. a wet blanket a person who says or does something that stops other people enjoying themselves Example: Don't be such a wet blanket! They're only kids messing around. They're not going to ruin your precious garden. the tip of the iceberg a small part of a problem you can see which is much smaller than the total size of the problem Example: Rising food prices are only the tip of the whole inflationiceberg. What about the cost of oil, the cost of transport and the fact that people's salaries haven't gone up recently? go/be back to square one have to think of a new way of doing something because the first way you did it wasn't successful Example: I thought we were all organised for the wedding but then the photographer pulled out, the caterers went out of business sowe're right back to square one. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

you've got loads to do you're busy rub along work together in an all right way (neither in a very good or very bad way) rub each other up the wrong way annoy someone (often without meaning to) variety's the spice of life (saying) said to emphasize that doing lots of different things, or changing what you do often, makes life interesting

Episode 191: Language Point

Background

Helen used a well-known expression 'With friends like that ...' but she didn't say the full expression. In English, if an expression is very well-known, we often don't say it in full. The full expression is 'With friends like that who needs enemies?'. This expression means your friends treat you almost as badly as your enemies would (here Helen means that Alice wasn't much of friend to Khalid for messing up his hair). Here are some more expressions and vocabulary items using the words friends and enemies: friends bosom buddy / friend / pal friend that you are very close to and who you like a lot Example: They've been bosom buddies for years. They've known each other since they were five! pen friend / pal someone you exchange letters with (often as a hobby) but whom you don't usually meet Example: Our teacher encouraged us to have pen pals from a school she knew in France. She said it was a good opportunity to practise reading and writing in French. friendly game / friendly argument a game or argument where you play for pleasure or to practise your skills, rather than playing or arguing seriously with the aim of winning Examples: The teams are playing a friendly football game every Saturday. I had my usual friendly argument with my mother about socialism again this weekend. keep your friends close and your enemies closer it's better to keep a closer eye on your enemies rather than your friends Example: He always wants to know what his competitors are up to. He really believes you should keep your friends close but your enemies closer. any friend of someone's is a friend of mine / yours etc. If you recommend someone to me who I don't know, I will trust the person you recommend because I like and trust you Example:Come in, come in! Welcome to my home. I'm glad Mark gave you my number. I'm sure we'll get along because any friend of Mark's is a friend of mine. you can pick your friends but you can't pick your family you can select who will and who won't be your friends but you are given your parents, brothers and sisters etc. You can't choose who your family is. Example: I hate talking on the phone but mum rings me almost every evening. I just have to keep telling myself â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you can't pick your family! enemies arch-enemy an especially bad enemy Example: He's been her arch-enemy ever since he got promoted to manager because of his fantastic marketing campaign. She says the campaign was all her idea and that he stole it from her and didn't give her any credit at all.

public enemy number one someone or something that a lot of people don't like or disapprove of. Example: Pretty much everyone who lives near the site says that the new airport is a really bad idea; it's become the new public enemy number one round here. he/she etc is his/her worst enemy cause problems for yourself because of your character or the way you do things Example: No matter how hard I try to get up early, I always end up turning off the alarm and snoozing for 'just five more minutes'. Then suddenly half an hour's gone by and I'm late for work again. I'm my own worst enemy, I really am. wouldn't wish that / it on my worst enemy used to emphasize how unpleasant something is Example: The waiters were rude and the food was disgusting. Iwouldn't wish that meal on my worst enemy. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

ask for your money back ask for the money you paid for something to be refunded to you (because, for example, you don't like what you bought, it doesn't fit or there is something wrong with it) confess admit that you did something wrong or bad save face have respect and honour from other people

Episode 192: Language Point

The second conditional A conditional is used to talk about a possible or imaginarysituation (the condition) and the consequences (or the result) of it. The second conditional - meaning We use the second conditional to talk about imaginary, hypothetical or unreal situations. We use it to talk about the result of this imaginary situation. In this episode of the Flatmates, Khalid answers questions about imaginary holiday situations. He is not on holiday now, and he is not about to go on holiday. But, if he was on holiday, and if there was a problem with his hotel room, he would talk to the manager.

The idea that he is on holiday and that there is a problem with the hotel room is a hypothetical (imaginary) situation. The result of this situation is talking to the manager. We use 'would' to show that we are certain about the result of the imaginary situation. If we are not certain about the result, we can use might instead of would: Example: If there was a problem, I might speak to the manager, or Imight contact my travel agent. The second conditional does not refer to past time. We often use it when we imagine a different present or when we are not making a direct reference to time. Example: If he was an animal, he would be a tiger. The second conditional - form a. A conditional sentence is usually composed of two parts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thecondition and the consequence. In the condition we usually use the past simple of the verb (was, had). In the consequence we use would + infinitive without to (would speak, would go): Examples: If there was a problem with his room, he would speak to the manager. If I had the money and also the time, I would go to New York. We always separate the consequence and the condition with a comma, when we begin the sentence with the condition. When we begin the sentence with the consequence, we usually donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t use a comma. Example: I would go to New York if I had the money and also the time. b. The negative form of 'would' is 'wouldn't': Example: If there was a problem with his room, he wouldn't contact his travel agent c. When you make a question, you change the word order by moving 'would': Examples: What would you do if there was a problem with your room? If you had the money and also the time, where would you go?Would you contact your travel agent? Would you visit the Statue of Liberty? d. In short answers to yes/no questions, you use would or wouldn't? Examples: Would you contact your travel agent? No, I wouldn't.Would you visit the Statue of Liberty? Yes, I would. e. In spoken English, we usually use a contracted form of would: I would = I'd, he would = he'd etc. f. It is possible, in the condition, to say both 'If I were you ...' and 'If I was you ...' 'If I were you ...' is the traditional and more formal form, but 'If I was you ...' is very common nowadays. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

a survey when someone asks a lot of people the same set of questions, usually for market research or at election time

Episode 193: Language Point

Ellipsis In informal, spoken English we often leave out words when it's easy to understand what's being said without them. For example, Tim said "Be out in a minute" rather than the fuller, more formal "I will be out in a minute". He also said "Just coming" rather than "I'm just coming". Here are some more examples of when we often leave out words (this is called 'ellipsis'): comparative structures with 'as' and 'than' The words after 'as' and 'than' are often dropped if the meaning is clear: There are as many girls as boys here. = There are as many girls asthere are boys here. She can speak more languages than you. = She can speak more languages than you can speak. at the beginning of sentences Unstressed words are often dropped at the beginning of sentences: A: Fancy a coffee? = Do you fancy a coffee? B: Would love a cup of tea. = I would love a cup of tea. Got the time please? = Have you got the time please? infinitives 1. You can use 'to' rather than repeating the full infinitive: I don't eat sweets now but I used to when I was young. = I don't eat sweets now but I used to eat sweets when I was young. I broke the vase. I didn't mean to. It just slipped. = I broke the vase. I didn't mean to break the vase. It just slipped. 2. Sometimes you can drop the infinitive and the 'to' as well: Eat as much as you want. = Eat as much as you want to eat. Can you open this window? I think it's stuck. I'll try. = I'll try to open the window. at the end of a noun phrase You can sometimes drop nouns after adjectives:

A: What kind of rice would you like? B: Boiled. = Boiled rice. If you don't have any brown bread, white will do. = If you don't have any brown bread, white bread will do. and / but / or Repeated words are often dropped in structures which use 'and', but' and 'or: You look different. And smell different too. = You look different. Andyou smell different too. She's a firm but fair boss. = She's a firm but she's a fair boss. Have you got a pen or pencil please? = Have you got a pen or have you got a pencil please? Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

cologne perfume (for women) or aftershave (for men) works wonders works very well, produces very beneficial effects wear off stop being effective bothered worried or upset

Episode 194: Language Point

Background Alice said 'It's time we were planning our holidays'. She meant 'We should' or 'We ought to plan our holidays'. Here are some other expressions we can use when we want to talk about what other people should do or talk about what we want or what we'd prefer to do. It's time / would prefer + infinitive After it's time / would prefer we use the infinitive: Examples: A: It's time to get the dinner ready. B: I'd prefer to go to a restaurant for a change, wouldn't you?

A: It's time to clear out the spare room. Your parents are coming next month. B: I'm too tired just now. I'd prefer to do it at the weekend. A: Isn't it about time to pack up and go home? B: I'd prefer to stay just a bit longer. The beach is so nice today, isn't it? Would rather + infinitive without to After would rather we use the infinitive without to: Examples: A: It's time to cut the grass. B: I'm at a great bit in my book. I'd rather do it later. A: It's time to go now. B: Can't we stay a bit longer? I'd rather get a later train. A: Come on, it's time to do the dishes. B: I'd rather leave them till the morning. Let's just go to bed and forget about them. It's time / would rather + past tense We can use a past tense after it's time or would rather but it has a present meaning: Examples: A: Do you mind if I smoke? B: I'd rather you didn't. A: Can I go round to Bobby's after school tomorrow? B: I'd rather you came straight home actually. Remember your grandma's coming to visit. A: Where are we going this summer? B: I don't know yet. I guess it's time we were planning our holidays. Had better and should + infinitive without to 1. We can use had better or should to give advice. We use had better for specific situations but not for things in general. Specific advice examples: You've been late every day this week. You'd better not be lateagain or you'll get an official warning. I'd better remember my mum's birthday this year. I forgot it last year and she didn't speak to me for a month! General advice examples: You look great in a suit and tie. You should wear smart clothes more often. In Britain, if you arrive late for a film, they still let you in but you shouldn't be late if you're going to the theatre. They won't let you in if you arrive late. 2. Had better also means there might be a problem or some trouble if you don't follow the advice. Whereas should only means 'it's a good idea to do this'. Examples You'd better do what he says or he'll kill us. You should go to the palace if you're in the city. You'll love it. Vocabulary

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carbon footprint amount of carbon dioxide we produce with any action or activity environmentalist person who wants to protect the environment from being damaged by human activities jet-setting

travelling around the world a lot like rich fashionable people in the offing likely to happen soon round the corner nearly here

Episode 195: Language Point

types of boats yacht expensive pleasure or racing boat which is powered by sails or an engine Example: If I won the lottery, I'd buy a yacht and sail round the world. ferry large boat which transports people and cars, lorries etc over a stretch of water Example: In New Zealand, they took the ferry from the South Island to the North Island. barge long, narrow boat which is used to carry people and/or goods along a narrow stretch of water, for example, a canal Example: Hundreds of years ago, coal used to be carried around Britain on barges but now most barges are used as floating holiday homes in the summer. rowing boat small boat with (usually two) oars which you can use to row the boat to make it move Example: Why don't we go to the park and hire a rowing boat? We'll enjoy the fresh air and get some exercise at the same time. cruise ship / cruise liner / liner large ship, like a hotel, which people travel on for pleasure Example: There's so much to do on the cruise liner â&#x20AC;&#x201C; tennis, swimming, dancing, films â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there's no way to get bored in the two weeks we'll be away.

hovercraft boat which can move over land and water by keeping close to the surface and producing a current of air under it to support itExample: We're going on the hovercraft when we go to France this summer. It'll be strange being on land and sea in a boat. dinghy small open boat (often used for people to sail to safety if there is an accident at sea) Example: Luckily they managed to get into a dinghy after their yacht capsized. canoe small light narrow boat, pointed at both ends, which you move using a paddle (a short pole with a flat blade on each end) Example: He rowed the canoe fast through the river, cutting though the water with the paddle. parts of a boat port, starboard, bow and stern left, right, front and back Example: The ship measures 15 metres from bow to stern. deck floor Example: Time to wash the decks. I want to see them cleaned and polished right away! expressions and idioms about sailing land / get into / be in deep water get into or be in serious trouble Example: If you're late once more this week, I'm warning you, you'llbe in deep water. miss the boat lose an opportunity to do something by being slow to act Example: I thought the price of the tickets would go down if I waited till the last minute but then I missed the boat completely because there were none left when I finally decided to buy them. rock the boat do or say something that will upset people, be controversial or cause problems Example: I know you don't like my dad's politics but just for once, this weekend will you please not rock the boat and let us all just have a nice quiet visit? Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

outfit set of matching clothes or ones that go together well, worn for a particular occasion (here, smart or stylish clothes worn for going on a date) You don't look half bad (informal compliment) You look very good private belonging to you personally, not owned by a company, the state or the government

fit for a queen / king (expression) something that is very good (so good in fact that even royalty would like it)

Episode 196: Language Point

Background Joints (knees, elbows, wrists etc.) connect one part of our body to another part. There are lots of English expressions, idioms and proverbs which refer to the joints. For example, Molly says to Alice 'Ooh, getting your knuckles rapped by matron?' which means Molly thinks matron is going to speak angrily to Alice because she has done something wrong. Here's a selection of some common expressions using joints: Neck neck and neck very close in a competition, each person has an equal chance of winning Example: After their presentations, Jack and Michelle were neck and neck. Then it was all down to the interview to decide which one would get the job. breathe down someone's neck stay close to someone, supervising them and watching everything that they do Example: Even if your teenagers tell you you're breathing down their necks, it's important you know what they're up to and where they're going. So don't be afraid to ask. Shoulder head and shoulders above clear winner, a lot better Example: His paintings are much better than everyone else's in the competition. His work is clearly head and shoulders above all the other entries. shoulder the responsibility / blame / burden accept something that is difficult or bad Example: When it became clear the Finance Minister had been taking bribes, the Prime Minister sacked him and then shouldered the blame and handed in her own resignation. Elbow give someone the elbow end a romantic relationship with someone

Example: I wanted to settle down with Ben and have kids but he said he wasn't ready. So I gave him the elbow and the very next day, I met this nice man in the office called Jim. And that's how I met your father! More power to your elbow! an expression we use to show praise or admiration for someone Example: You're really packing in your dull office job and heading off around the world? More Power to your elbow! Knuckle rap someone's knuckles / rap someone over the knuckles speak officially to someone, in a severe or angry way, because you disapprove of their actions Example: The boss rapped his knuckles for being late twice this week. He'd better be a bit more punctual if he's serious about wanting promotion. near the knuckle (informal) about sex and so likely to offend people Example: Nearly everyone thought he was funny but Marie thought some of his jokes were a bit near the knuckle. Hip hip fashionable Example: I can't keep up with you young people. One minute short skirts are hip, the next they're out of style. Hip, hip hooray / hurray! an expression that is called out, usually by a group of people at the same time, to express approval of someone or to congratulate themExample: Three cheers for Anita on her 21st birthday. Hip, hip, hooray! Knee at your mother's knee when you were a child Example: I learned that song at my mother's knee. I loved singing it with her when I was young. be knee-high to a grasshopper be very small or young Example: She was really talented, even as a child. She's been able to sing and dance since she was knee-high to a grasshopper. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

nipping (informal) going quickly attitude feelings (here, negative feelings which make you behave badly or rudely) it's none of my business it doesn't affect me directly, it's not my concern or my responsibility carrying a torch (informal expression) being secretly in love with someone

Episode 197: Language Point

Temperament When Tim says 'I'm all calm and controlled on the surface' he's describing his temperament. Temperament is the part of your character that affects your feelings and moods and the way you behave. Here are some other ways to describe people's temperament andpersonality. Positive traits These temperaments and personality types are generally seen as being positive: loyal faithful, not changing in your friendship with or support for someone Example: Even after he was sent to prison for murder, she still visited him every week. I don't think I would be so loyal if I was in her shoes. extrovert / extravert energetic, happy person who enjoys other people's company Example: She's the life and soul of every party. She's reallyextrovert. warm friendly and affectionate (shows feelings of openness and liking or love) Example: Bill's a really warm guy. If you ever need to ask a favour, he'll always try to help you out. sociable someone who likes to meet new people and spend time with other people Example: He's really sociable. He goes out every weekend, loves going to parties and has loads of friends. calm peaceful and quiet, not anxious or excitable Example: She's just who you want to be with in a crisis. She's socalm. She never gets flustered even when it's all going really badly, she just gets on with what she has to do without making a big fuss. sensitive understanding what other people want or what their emotional needs are, and being helpful and kind to them Example: Even though he's a really aggressive boxer, at home he's a loving, sensitive father bringing up three children by himself. Negative traits These temperaments and personality types are generally seen as being negative:

temperamental someone whose moods tend to change very suddenly and unexpectedly Example: He's so temperamental I never know how to approach him. One minute he's as nice as anything, next he's a complete nightmare. docile quiet and easy for other people to influence, persuade or controlExample: He's as docile as a lamb around her. She can do whatever she wants and he never argues. obsessive unable to stop thinking about something; too interested in or worried about something She's incredibly obsessive. Example: Everything in her kitchen is in perfect order and every one of her books and CDs is arranged in alphabetical order. introverted shy, quiet and doesn't make friends easily Example: He acts on stage in front of hundreds of people. It's hard to believe he's actually really shy and completely introverted. cold unfriendly, not showing affection, kindness or emotion Example: She's very cold. Even if you're really ill, she expects you to come into work. She has no sympathy for you have any kind of difficulty at all. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

floating flying (like a balloon in the air) row paddle or move a boat using paddles or oars graceful poised, calm, elegant I'm furiously paddling away I'm moving through water using as much effort as I possibly can stressing worrying

Episode 198: Language Point

Lighten up!

Dr Laver tells Alice to 'lighten up!'. He means she should relax and that she shouldn’t take herself so seriously. Examples:

1. 2.

Oh, lighten up! It was only a joke! She’s getting very boring. She should stop working so hard andlighten up!

Get a life! This is an informal phrase to say to someone if you think they're being very boring, and you want them to do more exciting things. Examples:

1. 2.

You're staying in and studying on a Saturday night? Get a life! He works twelve hours a day. I told him he should get a life!

Cheer up! Say this to someone if you want them to feel happier about things.

Cheer up. I’m sure it won’t be as bad as you think.You can cheer someone else up by doing something nice. 2. He bought her a plant to cheer her up. Or, of course, you can cheer yourself up. 3. I was feeling a bit sad, so I went out for lunch to cheer myself up. Look on the bright side If you look on the bright side, you try to find something good in a bad situation. Example: My work trip has been cancelled. I'm disappointed, but, looking on the bright side, it means I won't miss my friend's party. Sadness phrases These phrases mean to feel a bit sad or unhappy. Examples:

He was a bit down in the dumps because he'd had a bad day at work, so he decided to go out for a drink with his friends. 2. We felt a bit low after our friends left London. A stronger phrase is to be beside yourself. If you are beside yourself with a very strong emotion, you are almost out of control. Examples:

1. 2.

She was beside herself with grief when her father died. I was so angry at what he said I was beside myself!

Happiness phrases These phrases mean to feel happy. Examples:

1. 2.

I was so happy on my wedding day; I felt like I was walking on air! He was over the moon when he won the award.

Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

a professional distance not being too friendly with colleagues at work in everyone's best interests to everyone's advantage raise the alarm make people aware that there is something wrong

Episode 199: Language Point

Background When Alice says "Is this your idea of a joke?" she means "Do you think it (my fear of heights) isn't serious?" Here are some common expressions using the word joke as well as other vocabulary associated with comedy and jokes. Joke make / tell / crack a joke tell a story in order to make people laugh Example: She's always cracking jokes in the middle of meetings. The boss never thinks it's funny but the rest of us do. take a joke able to laugh when someone says something amusing about you and not be offended or hurt by it Example: He's so sensitive about being short he hates it if youmake a joke about his height. He's always making fun of other people but just can't take a joke when it's about him. get the joke understand what is funny when someone tells a joke Example: Everyone was killing themselves laughing but he just didn'tget the joke. He laughed a bit to cover his embarrassment but you could tell he just couldn't see what the joke was about. see the joke understand something funny or get the joke that's being made and find it funny yourself Example: Everyone else laughed loudly but I didn't see the joke.

in-joke private joke which can only be understood by a limited group of people who have a special knowledge of something that is being talked about in the joke Example: He's always making in-jokes. He never thinks what it's like for the rest of us who aren't in IT and who don't understand a word of them. practical joke joke that involves a physical action rather than words and which makes someone seem foolish Example: She loves playing practical jokes on people. Last week, she set her mum's alarm clock two hours early. Her mum didn't think it was so funny when she turned up at work so early! Parts of a joke set-up / preamble first part of a joke where a story or situation is explained Example: He's one of those comedians who tells really long jokes. The preamble goes on for ages but then he delivers a punchlinethat makes it all worth the wait! punch line / punchline last part of a joke (after the set-up) when the amusing or funny part is explained or told Example: ... And then I told them the punchline and there was complete silence. It was so embarrassing. Not one person laughed! People who work in comedy a comedian someone who works in comedy Example: Her stories are so funny. People are always telling her she should be a comedian. a stand-up (comic / comedian) someone who tells jokes on the stage Example:He worked as a stand-up for years before he got his first role in a TV comedy series. an impressionist someone who works in comedy and impersonates famous people by speaking and/or looking like them Example: She's a really good impressionist. If you close your eyes, it's just like Margaret Thatcher is right there in the room. a ventriloquist someone who works in comedy, usually with a doll (or dummy) that s/he pretends can speak. The ventriloquist is actually doing the talking but without moving her/his lips so that it looks like the doll is talking Example: You know that monkeys can't talk but she's such a goodventriloquist, you really start to believe those animals are speaking to you! a double act two people who work together in comedy

Example: Laurel and Hardy were one of the most famous double acts in Hollywood in the 1930s. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

claustrophobic fear of being in a small or confined space phobias fears, things people are frightened of make fun of not take seriously can't stand hate any second soon

Episode 200: Language Point

Background 'Like' is a word that is used a lot in English. It's also a word with lots of different meanings. For example, Khalid used it twice: "Well he's a grown-up like the rest of us. Maybe he'll just have to learn to like it or lump it". The first one means 'similar to' and the second one is part of an expression (like it or lump it) which means you have to accept a situation even if you don't like it because you can't change it. Here are some of the other meanings of like, as well as some common expressions using like. Like meanings 1. enjoy or approve of something or someone Examples: Do you like seafood? I like watching TV and going to the cinema. 2. want or desire (used in requests, often with 'would') Examples: I'd like a cup of tea please. Would you like to come to the cinema with us tonight? 3. used when recounting a story, or an encounter with someone, to introduce what someone said or how you felt Examples: When he told me he was getting married I was like"What? You've only known her for two minutes. You can't!"

He was, like, so angry when they missed the train. I thought he was going to punch someone! 4. typical, usual or characteristic of Examples: That's just like my mum to say I can't go out this weekend. She never lets me do anything fun! It's not like you not to finish your food. Aren't you hungry? 5. such as Examples: He loves racket sports â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you know, like tennis, badminton, squash, that kind of thing. She's really into spicy food, like curries, or anything with chillies in it. 6. in a way that suggests Examples:It looks like the bus is never going to come. Should we just walk into town instead? It sounds to me like you two really don't get along. Why are you still going out with him? 7. similar to Examples: Her bike is just like his, except hers is red. He looks just like his father. Expressions with 'like' like it or lump it you have to accept a situation even if you don't like it because you can't change it Example: Like it or lump it, we'll have to stay late to finish the report. The boss wants it ready for tomorrow and that's that. something like approximately Example: There were something like 100,000 people at the game last night. feel like (doing) have a desire for something or to want to do something Examples: I feel like going for a swim. I feel like a cold beer. Do you want one? I wish I didn't have to go into the office. I don't feel like workingtoday. do something like mad (informal) do very enthusiastically, quickly or a lot Example: His exams are next week. He's been studying like madbecause he needs to pass them to get into university. That's more like it! (informal) used to show that you think something or someone has improved Example: That's more like it! I knew you could do it. That was a great practice run. Now I want you to run like that in the race tomorrow. do something like a shot (informal) do something extremely quickly and enthusiastically Example: The minute Bill said he was leaving, Liz was off like a shotinto the boss's office to ask for his job! She's got a nerve. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

ask her out

ask her to go out on a (romantic) date you said yourself (used to emphasise) you admitted awkward difficult to deal with a grown-up an adult, not a child

Episode 201: Language Point

Background There are lots of expressions that are used to refer to time in English. Here are some that refer to the past, present and future. Referring to the past 1. back in the old days a long time ago Example: Back in the old days people had to travel by horse. There were no trains, planes or cars 200 years ago. 2. back in the day (informal) a long time ago Example: Back in the day he was serious about football. Now he's at college he doesn't have time for games with us. 3. when someone was young / a boy / a girl a time when an adult was younger Example: When I was a girl everyone had to wear a school uniform. Now the youngsters can wear whatever they like to school. 4. before someone's time before someone was born or was old enough to remember somethingExample: She doesn't remember Pele. He was before her time. 5. yesteryear a time in the past Example: This year's nominations for the Oscars were on the red carpet before the ceremony began, along with some of the great Hollywood stars of yesteryear. Referring to the present 1. nowadays currently (can refer to days, weeks, month or even years around now) Example: Nowadays practically everyone who works in an office has a computer.

2. present-day (adj) existing now or around now Present-day attitudes about smoking are much more polarised than they used to be. People have very strong opinions now, either for or against it. 3. at the moment now He's unemployed at the moment but hoping to find some work very soon. Very soon or immediately 1. in a jiffy very soon Example: I'll be down in a jiffy. Don't leave without me! 2. A.S.A.P/ asap As soon as possible (note this is usually pronounced as separate letters A.S.A.P but is also now pronounced as one word â&#x20AC;&#x201C; asap) Example: Let me know asap if you're coming to the party or not. I need to know how many are coming so I can get the food organised. 3. in no time (at all) / next to no time very quickly or very soon Examples: The children ate their dinner in no time. We'll be home in next to no time. Referring to the future 1. by this time tomorrow / next week / next month etc. in one day's / week's / month's etc. time Example: By this time next week, I'll have finished all my exams and will be having a lovely time lazing on the beach. I can't wait! 2. in / for the foreseeable future as far into the future as you can imagine or plan for Example: He plans to work as a teacher for the foreseeable future. Example: Is there a time in the foreseeable future when you can see yourself moving out of London? Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

You're looking a bit peaky (informal) You don't look very well Just doing my job I'm not doing anything special or extra. I'm only doing what is expected of me shove off (informal) leave paperwork written records connected with a particular job discretion ability to keep things secret that are confidential or that could be embarrassing if other people found out about them

Episode 202: Language Point

Background Here are some common expressions you can use to talk aboutunpredictable weather, as well as some weather idioms. Unpredictable weather sunshine one minute, rain the next weather that changes often - from warm to rainy Example: I never know what to wear in London in the summer. It'ssunshine one minute, rain the next here. You have to be prepared for anything! changeable not consistent, often changing Example: I don't know if we should have a picnic next week or not. The weather's been so changeable recently. We just can't be sure we'll have nice enough weather to be outside. sunshine and showers a mixture of sunny weather and light rain Example: Bring your suntan lotion and your umbrella. The forecast is for sunshine and showers. Rain idioms come rain, come shine / come rain or shine it's predictable, whatever happens Example: I said I'd be there. Come rain or shine I will be. Trust me! it never rains but it pours when things go wrong, they go very badly wrong Example: Honestly, it never rains but it pours! First I woke up late, then I missed my train. Then, when I got to work, I realised someone had stolen my purse on the train! save / keep (money) for a rainy day save money for a time in the future when you might need it unexpectedly Example: Her parents always taught her to save for a rainy day. So when she was made redundant, at least she was OK financially. Thunder and lightning idioms steal someone's thunder do something to take success or praise away from someone else by focusing on what you've done, rather than what they've done Example: I was just about to tell everyone I was getting married, when Stella walked in and announced she was having twins! Talk about stealing my thunder!

a face like thunder look very angry Example: She knew she was in trouble when the boss walked in witha face like thunder. like greased lightning very quickly Example: As soon as I asked for some help, she went out the doorlike greased lightning. Cloud idioms be under a cloud not be trusted or popular because people think you have done something wrong Example: Roger was accused of shoplifting once. When some money went missing in the office, he was under a cloud until they found the person who stole it. be on cloud nine be extremely happy and excited Example: I've been on cloud nine for days. I can't believe I got the top job! have your head in the clouds be unrealistic or impractical Example: She always has her head in the clouds, daydreaming about being a famous film star! Storm idioms weather the storm deal successfully with a difficult problem Example: It'll be interesting to see which businesses manage toweather the storm of this economic crisis. the calm before the storm a quiet or peaceful period before a period during which there is a lot of activity or argument Example: Whenever we have a party for the children, my husband and I like to have a moment to ourselves before all the kids arrive. That peaceful cup of coffee is the calm before the storm. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

unpredictable likely to change suddenly and without reason mate (informal) friend hand them up to me give them to me see understand get it understand it

Episode 203: Language Point

Background When Matron told Alice that someone was 'singing' her 'praises' she meant that someone was complimenting Alice and saying good things about her. Here are some common expressions and idioms about singing,music and musical instruments. Idioms about music face the music accept criticism or the consequences for something you have done Example: When the corruption scandal broke the prime minister had to face the music and resign. be music to someone's ears be something that someone is very pleased to hear Example: After 18 hours in labour, the first cry of my first-born wasmusic to my ears. change your tune change your mind completely, especially because you know it will bring you an advantage Example: She changed her tune as soon as she heard the boss's new plan for global business. So much for her ideals of keeping the company small, local and specialised! make a song and dance about something make something seem more important than it really is so that everyone takes notice of it Example: There's no need to make a song and dance about it. I only asked you to stay a little bit later this evening to help me finish the report. and all that jazz (informal) and other similar things, and things like that The beach is great there. They have sunbeds, tennis courts, boats for hire and all that jazz. strike a chord makes people approve or agree with something Example: In the middle of this economic crisis, this feel-good filmhas struck a chord with almost everyone. When times are tough, we all want a bit of escapism in the cinema. it ain't / it's not over till the fat lady sings don't assume you know the outcome of an activity until it has actually finished Example: With only 15 minutes to go, the Blues are in front, four goals to one. So I

think we know who's going to win here. But it's not over till the fat lady sings. So stayed tune till the final whistle goes. Musical instruments fiddle (informal) violin, a wooden musical instrument with four strings, which is played by moving a bow across the strings trumpet a brass musical instrument with a metal tube with one narrow end, into which the player blows, and one wide end. Three buttons are pressed in order to change notes Idioms about musical instruments be fit as a fiddle be very healthy and strong Example: Two weeks after the operation, my grandma was back out playing golf. She's really amazing. She's 75 and as fit as a fiddle. blow your own trumpet tell everyone proudly about your achievements Example: We all know she got a first-class honours degree. I just wish she'd stop blowing her own trumpet about it. Vocabulary SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

feedback information about how well someone is performing in a job (or not) be off the phone finish a phone conversation put it into the mix if you put something in the mix, you think about it or consider it revisiting your application thinking about your request again stretched understaffed, not having enough nurses to do all the work in the ward synchronicity the chance happening of two or more related or similar events at the same time (here, Alice coming to see the Matron and Matron unexpectedly getting a very good report about Alice)

Episode 204: Language Point

Background Tim asked Khalid if he knew what the capital of Cameroon was. Thecapital city is part of the geographical makeup of a country. Here are some common expressions you can use to talk about a country's geography and geographical features. geography geography the study of the systems and processes involved in the world's weather, mountains, seas, lakes, etc. and of the ways in which countries and people organize life within an area Example: We're studying the geography of India just now in school. cardinal points the four main points of the compass: north, south, east and west Example: If you don't even know your cardinal points, what makes you think you should be in charge of the map! geographical terms peninsula long narrow piece of land which sticks out into the sea or into a lake Example: A lot of the state of Florida is situated on a peninsulabetween the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and the Straits of Florida. rural countryside Example: We lived in the city for five years but now that we've got kids, we want a more rural lifestyle. We think bringing them up in the countryside will be better for them. fertile land or soil where crops (fruit, vegetable, cereals etc.) can be grown successfully Example: The farmers have been very successful here because the land is so fertile. erode rub away gradually over a long period of time Example: Over the years the coast of this country has changed. The cliffs next to the sea are being eroded more and more every year by the waves. seasons season period of time every year when a particular type of weather usually happens, for example, spring, summer, autumn and winter or the dry season, hurricane season, monsoon season or rainy season Example: I think the beginning of the monsoon season is my favourite time of the year. After the long hot days and nights, the first rain is such a relief. towns and cities capital (city) city which is the centre of government of a country Example: Cardiff is the capital of Wales.

residential area housing area where people live Example: The city has residential areas, as well as industrial ones. people population total number of people living in a particular country, area or place Example: The population of this city is rising every year as more and more people from the countryside move here looking for work. birth rate number of children being born for each 1,000 of the population Example: China's "One child per family" policy was introduced to try to reduce the birth rate. death rate number of people dying for each 1,000 of the population Example: As advances in medicine increase, the death rate in most countries decreases. densely populated area that is very crowded Example: Beijing is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. migrate move from one place to another to live or to work Example: Workers migrate here every year to find work at harvest time on the farms. Vocabulary: SHOW ALL | HIDE ALL

convincing able to make you believe that something is true or correct volunteered offered to do something geography genius very good natural ability or skill in geography