200 IDIOMATIC EXPRESSIONS FOR PROFESSIONALS Flashcards
I b___ my calculations o___ the figures that were given to me.
Translation: basar en
I BASED my calculations ON the figures that were given to me.
Transaltion: basar en
We’re ca___ o___ a series of tests in order to determine which material is optimal for the job.
Translation: llevar a cabo
We’re CARRYING OUT a series of tests in order to determine which material is optimal for the job.
Translation: llevar a cabo
It’d be lovely to cat___ u___ soon if we can. It’s been a while since we last spoke.
Definition: talk to someone you haven’t spoken to for some time in order to find out what they have been doing
Translation: ponerse al día
It’d be lovely to CATCH UP soon if we can. It’s been a while since we last spoke.
Definition: talk to someone you haven’t spoken to for some time in order to find out what they have been doing
Translation: ponerse al día
The system c___ o___ various different processes.
Translation: constar de
The system CONSISTS OF various different processes.
Translation: constar de
Whether the event is held or not will d___ entirely o___ the weather. I’ll give you an update nearer the time.
Translation: depender de
Whether the event is held or not will DEPEND entirely ON the weather. I’ll give you an update nearer the time.
Translation: depender de
We e___ u___ using a different agency in the end because they offered us a better price.
Definition: to reach a situation that was not planned or expected
Translation: terminar
We ENDED UP using a different agency in the end because they offered us a better price.
Definition: to reach a situation that was not planned or expected
Translation: terminar
First and foremost, our company b___ i___ transparency.
Translation: creer en
First and foremost, our company BELIEVES IN transparency.
Translation: creer en
We were totally blo___ a___ by the talk he gave. It was fascinating.
Definition: to be very impressed
Translation: soplar (literal)
We were totally BLOWN AWAY by the talk he gave. It was fascinating.
Definition: to be very impressed
Translation: soplar (literal)
It’ll need to be dea__ w___ as quickly as possible so as not to slow down production.
Definition: take measures to put something right
Translation: tratar con
It’ll need to be DEALT WITH as quickly as possible so as not to slow down production.
Definition: take measures to put something right
Translation: tratar con
I’m not sure to be honest, give me a couple of hours and I’ll ge___ ba___ to you, okay?
Definition: to give an answer at a later point in time
I’m not sure to be honest, give me a couple of hours and I’ll GET BACK to you, okay?
Definition: to give an answer at a later point in time
Let’s g___ tog___ next Monday with the whole team and we’ll discuss the issue further.
Translation: reunirse
Let’s GET TOGETHER next Monday with the whole team and we’ll discuss the issue further.
Translation: reunirse
I think we ought to bre___ it do___ into several smaller steps to make it a bit more manageable.
Definition: divide into smaller parts
Translation: dividir
I think we ought to BREAK it DOWN into several smaller steps to make it a bit more manageable.
Definition: divide into smaller parts
Translation: dividir
I’m glad you bro___ that u___ because I’d been meaning to speak to you about that.
Definition: raise a matter for discussion
Translation: mencionar el tema
I’m glad you BROUGHT that UP because I’d been meaning to speak to you about that.
Definition: raise a matter for discussion
Translation: mencionar el tema
We’re going out for lunch after this, would you like to co___ alo___?
Definition: to join / accompany
We’re going out for lunch after this, would you like to COME ALONG?
Definition: to join / accompany
What about if we g___ a___ a free stay in a hotel to the winner?
Definition: give for free
Translation: regalar
What about if we GIVE AWAY a free stay in a hotel to the winner?
Definition: give for free
Translation: regalar
If you’d like to jo___ i___ with the annual workshop, just reply to this email.
Definition: to participate
If you’d like to JOIN IN with the annual workshop, just reply to this email.
Definition: to participate
I’m really lo___ fo___ t___ meeting you this Friday.
Translation: tener muchas ganas de / estar emocionado
I’m really LOOKING FORWARD TO meeting you this Friday.
Translation: tener muchas ganas de / estar emocionado
‘Look forward to’ can also mean ‘quedar a la espera de’, like in the following sentence:
Thank you for considering my application, and I LOOK FORWARD TO your reply.
In the end we decided to pu___ it o___ until April as several members of the team are away on holiday.
Definition: postpone
In the end we decided to PUT it OFF until April as several members of the team are away on holiday.
Definition: postpone
We’re ru___ o___ of time now it seems, so let’s wrap it up there.
Translation: agotarse/quedarse sin
We’re RUNNING OUT of time now it seems, so let’s wrap it up there.
Translation: agotarse/quedarse sin
Nearly all of the clients sh___ u___ for the meeting but some were unable to attend.
Definition: arrive for an appointment or gathering
Translation: venir / aparecerse
Nearly all of the clients SHOWED UP for the meeting but some were unable to attend.
Definition: arrive for an appointment or gathering
Translation: venir / aparecerse
The warehouse will sh___ do___ for 2 weeks over Christmas.
Definition: to close, normally for a significant period of time, or permanently
The warehouse will SHUT DOWN for 2 weeks over Christmas.
Definition: to close, normally for a significant period of time, or permanently
We had 500 people si___ u___ for the new offer over the weekend.
Translation: apuntarse
We had 500 people SIGN UP for the new offer over the weekend.
Translation: apuntarse
You can sw___ o___ the machine by holding down this button for 3 seconds.
Translation: apagar
You can SWITCH OFF the machine by holding down this button for 3 seconds.
Translation: apagar
Would you mind tu___ d___ the heating Lara?
Translation: bajar/reducir
Would you mind TURNING DOWN the heating Lara?
Translation: bajar/reducir
Fortunately, we were able to fin___ o___ why it had stopped working. It was an electrical fault.
Definition: discover a fact or information
Translation: averiguar/descubrir
Fortunately, we were able to FIND OUT why it had stopped working. It was an electrical fault.
Definition: discover a fact or information
Translation: averiguar/descubrir
Of course you can use my office. Please, g___ ah___.
Definition: permission to proceed
Translation: adelante/continuar
Of course you can use my office. Please, GO AHEAD.
Definition: permission to proceed
Translation: adelante/continuar
George will be loo___ a___ your project whilst you’re away.
Definition: take care of someone or something / take charge of something
George will be LOOKING AFTER your project whilst you’re away.
Definition: take care of someone or something / take charge of something
Sales have been g___ u___ consistently since February.
Translation: subir
Sales have been GOING UP consistently since February.
Translation: subir
I just thought I’d ch___ i___ to find out how you’re getting on with everything.
Definition: to make sure someone is okay
I just thought I’d CHECK IN to find out how you’re getting on with everything.
Definition: to make sure someone is okay
Please, c___ i___ and take a seat.
Definition: enter the room/building
Translation: pasar
Please, COME IN and take a seat.
Definition: enter the room/building
Translation: pasar
I hu___ u___ the phone. I couldn’t hear him, the connection was terrible.
Translation: colgar
I HUNG UP the phone. I couldn’t hear him, the connection was terrible.
Translation: colgar
Just make sure that you l___ o___ after you’re finished using the computer.
Translation: cerrar sesión
Just make sure that you LOG OUT after you’re finished using the computer.
Translation: cerrar sesión
Use this username to s___ i___ to your account.
Translation: iniciar sesión
Use this username to SIGN IN to your account.
Translation: iniciar sesión
Once you’ve ta___ o___ the cover, put this sticker in the top-right-hand corner.
Translation: quitar
Once you’ve TAKEN OFF the cover, put this sticker in the top-right-hand corner.
Translation: quitar
Did you he___ ab___ what happened last night? Oh it was hilarious.
Translation: enterarse de / oír (literal)
Did you HEAR ABOUT what happened last night? Oh it was hilarious.
Translation: enterarse de / oír (literal)
Anna, Kyle is on the phone. Should I ask him to c___ b___ in a couple of hours?
Translation: devolver la llamada
Anna, Kyle is on the phone. Should I ask him to CALL BACK in a couple of hours?
Translation: devolver la llamada
Just wat___ o___ for any error messages. This computer has been playing up quite a bit recently.
Translation: estar atento
Just WATCH OUT for any error messages. This computer has been playing up quite a bit recently.
Translation: estar atento
Everything has sl___ d___ a fair bit since Covid.
Translation: ir más despacio
Definition: sales, productivity or business in general has decreased
Everything has SLOWED DOWN a fair bit since Covid.
Translation: ir más despacio
Definition: sales, productivity or business in general has decreased
ASAP sta___ f___ “as soon as possible”.
Definition: the word each letter represents in an acronym
ASAP STANDS FOR “as soon as possible”.
Definition: the word each letter represents in an acronym
Here’s a list of problems that need to be sor___ o___.
Translation: resolver
Here’s a list of problems that need to be SORTED OUT.
Translation: resolver
Sorry, ca___ o___, what were you saying?
Definition: continue
Sorry, CARRY ON, what were you saying?
Definition: continue
Just get the customers to f___ o___ this form and then upload it to the database.
Translation: rellenar
Just get the customers to FILL OUT this form and then upload it to the database.
Translation: rellenar
We only intended for this to be a small project but it quickly tu___ in___ something much bigger.
Translation: convertirse en
We only intended for this to be a small project but it quickly TURNED INTO something much bigger.
Translation: convertirse en
It might be wise to as___ James f___ his opinion on that one.
Definition: request something from someone
It might be wise to ASK James FOR his opinion on that one.
Definition: request something from someone
We’re ai___ t___ get it finished by New Year.
Definition: the objective
We’re AIMING TO get it finished by New Year.
Definition: the objective
To fi___ o___, shall we take a look at last week’s numbers?
Translation: terminar
To FINISH OFF, shall we take a look at last week’s numbers?
Translation: terminar
Let me just wr___ that d___ a minute before I forget.
Translation: anotar
Let me just WRITE that DOWN a minute before I forget.
Translation: anotar
The SB7 framework? No, I’ve never he___ o___ it. What is it?
Definition: to be aware of something or have information about it
Translation: escuchar
The SB7 framework? No, I’ve never HEARD OF it. What is it?
Definition: to be aware of something or have information about it
Translation: escuchar
No, I haven’t wr___ b___ to him yet as I’m waiting for Kelly’s opinion first.
Translation: responder
No, I haven’t WRITTEN BACK to him yet as I’m waiting for Kelly’s opinion first.
Translation: responder
If you zo___ i___ you can see the images a bit more clearly.
Translation: hacer zoom / ampliar
If you ZOOM IN you can see the images a bit more clearly.
Translation: hacer zoom / ampliar
We need to te___ it ou___ thoroughly though before putting it on the market.
Translation: probar
We need to TEST it OUT thoroughly though before putting it on the market.
Translation: probar
We’ll be cl___ do___ the firm for a week over Easter.
Translation: cerrar
We’ll be CLOSING DOWN the firm for a week over Easter.
Translation: cerrar
If you sc___ d___ all the way to the bottom, you’ll be able to see the new video that was inserted.
Translation: desplazar hacia abajo
If you SCROLL DOWN all the way to the bottom, you’ll be able to see the new video that was inserted.
Translation: desplazar hacia abajo
Let me sh___ you ar___ our new office.
Definition: act as a guide, leading a person from place to place
Translation: enseñar/mostrar
Let me SHOW you AROUND our new office.
Definition: act as a guide, leading a person from place to place
Translation: enseñar/mostrar
Hang on a minute, let’s ba___ u___ a bit. Didn’t you say that Darren had already finished that part?
Definition: return to an earlier point
Hang on a minute, let’s BACK UP a bit. Didn’t you say that Darren had already finished that part?
Definition: return to an earlier point
I think I g___ kind of c___ a___ with the cakes at lunchtime. I’m so full!
Definition: lose self-control
Translation: dejarse llevar
I think I GOT kind of CARRIED AWAY with the cakes at lunchtime. I’m so full!
Definition: lose self-control
Translation: dejarse llevar
We’re planning on bri___ o___ an updated version of this product next year.
Translation: sacar al mercado
We’re planning on BRINGING OUT an updated version of this product next year.
Translation: sacar al mercado
I c___ ac___ a fascinating article last night.
Definition: find something by chance
I CAME ACROSS a fascinating article last night.
Definition: find something by chance
Well, you know you can c___ o___ me if you need anything. Just give me a shout.
Translation: contar con
Well, you know you can COUNT ON me if you need anything. Just give me a shout.
Translation: contar con
We’re working hard to find innovative ways of cu___ do___ o___ the amount of packaging we use for our products.
Definition: reduce
We’re working hard to find innovative ways of CUTTING DOWN ON the amount of packaging we use for our products.
Definition: reduce
I’ll try and g___ ac___ before 2, but it depends on the traffic.
Definition: arrive from one place to another place
I’ll try and GET ACROSS before 2, but it depends on the traffic.
Definition: arrive from one place to another place
It’s almost impossible to ke___ u___ w___ all of the new research.
Translation: mantenerse al día con
It’s almost impossible to KEEP UP WITH all of the new research.
Translation: mantenerse al día con
It’s an indispensable tool for handling tiny parts without having to d___ wi___ the comfort and safety of previous models.
Definition: to manage with the absence of something
Translation: prescindir de
It’s an indispensable tool for handling tiny parts without having to DO WITHOUT the comfort and safety of previous models.
Definition: to manage with the absence of something
Translation: prescindir de
New sites have been identified, should the proposed purchase fa___ thr___.
Definition: come to nothing / fail
Translation: quedar en nada / no darse
New sites have been identified, should the proposed purchase FALL THROUGH.
Definition: come to nothing / fail
Translation: quedar en nada / no darse
Would it be okay if we t___ ou___ this text? The page looks a bit overcrowded.
Translation: quitar / eliminar
Would it be okay if we TOOK OUT this text? The page looks a bit overcrowded.
Translation: quitar / eliminar
I’m very sorry for the inconvenience caused Mrs Smith. I’ll lo___ i___ the matter as soon as possible.
Definition: investigate something
I’m very sorry for the inconvenience caused Mrs Smith. I’ll LOOK INTO the matter as soon as possible.
Definition: investigate something
Properly understanding the needs first will help the provider and the client th___ th___ what his or her options are.
Definition: to think carefully about each part, especially in order to make a decision
Properly understanding the needs first will help the provider and the client THINK THROUGH what his or her options are.
Definition: to think carefully about each part, especially in order to make a decision
I haven’t managed to g___ rou___ t___ reading your email yet, sorry. Give me another hour and I’ll get back to you, okay?
Definition: find time to do something
I haven’t managed to GET ROUND TO reading your email yet, sorry. Give me another hour and I’ll get back to you, okay?
Definition: find time to do something
Bad weather se___ the project ba___ a couple of weeks, but we’re not overly concerned.
Translation: retrasar
Bad weather SET the project BACK a couple of weeks, but we’re not overly concerned.
Translation: retrasar
It’s important that we st___ o___ from the competition.
Translation: destacarse
It’s important that we STAND OUT from the competition.
Translation: destacarse
Isn’t it annoying how errors start to tu___ u___ just when you think you’ve finished?
Definition: to appear
Isn’t it annoying how errors start to TURN UP just when you think you’ve finished?
Definition: to appear
Sorry Gill, ha___ o___ just a second. Andy is calling me again. I’ll call you back.
Definition: wait for a short time
Sorry Gill, HANG ON just a second. Andy is calling me again. I’ll call you back.
Definition: wait for a short time
Well I ought to he___ b___ now or I won’t be back in time for that meeting.
Definition: move in a direction in order to return to a place
Well I ought to HEAD BACK now or I won’t be back in time for that meeting.
Definition: move in a direction in order to return to a place
I’ve really fa___ be___ on the Ericson case but I’ll try to catch up over the weekend.
Definition: to be behind schedule
I’ve really FALLEN BEHIND on the Ericson case but I’ll try to catch up over the weekend.
Definition: to be behind schedule
You can p___ your charger i___ over here.
Translation: enchufar
You can PLUG your charger IN over here.
Translation: enchufar
Don’t worry. We’ll fig___ o___ a plan to get this fixed ASAP.
Definition: make effort to understand a problem and thus solving it
Don’t worry. We’ll FIGURE OUT a plan to get this fixed ASAP.
Definition: make effort to understand a problem and thus solving it
I probably ought to just poi___ o___ as well, that only the first two modules need additional work, not all of them.
Definition: make someone aware of a fact or circumstance
Translation: señalar
I probably ought to just POINT OUT as well, that only the first two modules need additional work, not all of them.
Definition: make someone aware of a fact or circumstance
Translation: señalar
I think it sounds like a wonderful idea but could you just pu___ it pa___ Jonathon first?
Definition: check that something is okay with someone or get their permission
I think it sounds like a wonderful idea but could you just PUT it PAST Jonathon first?
Definition: check that something is okay with someone or get their permission
Note: you could also say “run past”, this has the same meaning
Business will begin to wi___ do___ now on the run up to Christmas. It always gets quieter at this time of year.
Definition: reduce gradually until it finishes or becomes less
Business will begin to WIND DOWN now on the run up to Christmas. It always gets quieter at this time of year.
Definition: reduce gradually until it finishes or becomes less
I assume that we only have about a minute left now so let’s wr___ u___ there and we’ll arrange another meeting for next week.
Definition: to conclude something
I assume that we only have about a minute left now so let’s WRAP UP there and we’ll arrange another meeting for next week.
Definition: to conclude something
In some countries, people are inclined to tu___ d___ the opportunity of work if it would lead to the loss of benefits.
Translation: rechazar
In some countries, people are inclined to TURN DOWN the opportunity of work if it would lead to the loss of benefits.
Translation: rechazar
I don’t really know any electricians to be honest but I’ll try and a___ aro___ for some recommendations for you.
Definition: to speak to several different people in order to get information
Translation: preguntar por ahí
I don’t really know any electricians to be honest but I’ll try and ASK AROUND for some recommendations for you.
Definition: to speak to several different people in order to get information
Translation: preguntar por ahí
We should pa___ o___ some flyers as people enter the workshop.
Translation: repartir
We should PASS OUT some flyers as people enter the workshop.
Translation: repartir
Once we’ve carried out an in-depth analysis of the situation we’ll be in touch to pu___ for___ a plan.
Definition: submit a plan for consideration
Translation: presentar / proponer
Once we’ve carried out an in-depth analysis of the situation we’ll be in touch to PUT FORWARD a plan.
Definition: submit a plan for consideration
Translation: presentar / proponer
What might app___ t___ our customers is a website where they can place orders directly, rather than having to call us up.
Definition: be attracted or interested in something
What might APPEAL TO our customers is a website where they can place orders directly, rather than having to call us up.
Definition: be attracted or interested in something
Can you exp___ o___ your idea about recycling all our coffee cups? How can we do that?
Definition: give a more detailed explanation
Can you EXPAND ON your idea about recycling all our coffee cups? How can we do that?
Definition: give a more detailed explanation
We need to fac___ in___ the cost of a yearly payrise for staff when we’re working on that project budget.
Definition: include something when you are making a calculation
We need to FACTOR IN the cost of a yearly payrise for staff when we’re working on that project budget.
Definition: include something when you are making a calculation
That system error da___ ba___ t___ 2018 and it still hasn’t been fixed.
Defintion: to have existed since a particular time
Translation: datar de
That system error DATES BACK TO 2018 and it still hasn’t been fixed.
Defintion: to have existed since a particular time
Translation: datar de
How much money will b___ l___ o___ once we’ve paid for all the materials?
Translation: sobrar
How much money will BE LEFT OVER once we’ve paid for all the materials?
Translation: sobrar
The company really needs to lev___ u___ the rates of pay between managers.
Definition: increase something in order to remove a disparity
This company really needs to LEVEL UP the rates of pay between managers.
Definition: increase something in order to remove a disparity
Note: level up can also mean to “take something to the next level”
This procedure doesn’t work properly but we can wo___ ar___ it by doing this…
Definition: find an alternative way of doing something
This procedure doesn’t work properly but we can WORK AROUND it by doing this…
Definition: find an alternative way of doing something
It had never o___ t___ me that it would take so long to do it.
Translation: ocurrirse
It had never OCCURED TO me that it would take so long to do it.
Translation: ocurrirse
This customer is i___ o___ a discount as they’ve put in a bulk order, which is fair enough… Don’t you think?
Translation: insistir en
This customer is INSISTING ON a discount as they’ve put in a bulk order, which is fair enough… Don’t you think?
Translation: insistir en
Everyone should re___ t___ the insurance policy to check they are covered before they drive one of our vehicles.
Translation: consultar con / referirse a (literal)
Everyone should REFER TO the insurance policy to check they are covered before they drive one of our vehicles.
Translation: consultar con / referirse a (literal)
I’m going to se___ u___ a spreadsheet where everyone can add their ideas.
Definition: to create
I’m going to SET UP a spreadsheet where everyone can add their ideas.
Definition: to create
The job tu___ ou___ to be a bit beyond his ability.
Translation: resultar
The job TURNED OUT to be a bit beyond his ability.
Translation: resultar
Every business expense should be acc___ f___ with a receipt or invoice.
Translation: dar cuentas de
Every business expense should be ACCOUNTED FOR with a receipt or invoice.
Translation: dar cuentas de
The pandemic has been so difficult for us, but at least we can fa___ ba___ o___ our reserves.
Translation: recurrir a
The pandemic has been so difficult for us, but at least we can FALL BACK ON our reserves.
Translation: recurrir a
We’ve been campaigning to ge___ ri___ o___ products that contain palm oil for a few years now.
Definition: take action to eliminate something
Translation: deshacerse de / eliminar
We’ve been campaigning to GET RID OF products that contain palm oil for a few years now.
Definition: take action to eliminate something
Translation: deshacerse de / eliminar
I think we’re going to set___ o___ this version as it’s so much easier to use.
Definition: arrive at a decision after considering various options
I think we’re going to SETTLE ON this version as it’s so much easier to use.
Definition: arrive at a decision after considering various options
There are a few minor issues to ir___ o___ before we can move on to the next project.
Definition: to finish something by dealing with the final details and solving any remaining problems
Translation: planchar (literal)
There are a few minor issues to IRON OUT before we can move on to the next project.
Definition: to finish something by dealing with the final details and solving any remaining problems
Translation: planchar (literal)
We o__ f__ doing it this way in the end because we thought it’d probably be quicker.
Translation: optar por
We OPTED FOR doing it this way in the end because we thought it’d probably be quicker.
Translation: optar por
We’re going to pha___ o___ paper payslips. From January you will be able to view your payslips online.
Definition: eliminate gradually
We’re going to PHASE OUT paper payslips. From January you will be able to view your payslips online.
Definition: eliminate gradually
We p___ our success do___ t___ hard work and determination.
Translation: atribuir a
We PUT our success DOWN TO hard work and determination.
Translation: atribuir a
The greatest wealth of a country, or a company, st___ fr___ its development of human potential, not only its profit-making ability.
Translation: provenir de / el tallo (literal)
The greatest wealth of a country, or a company, STEMS FROM its development of human potential, not only its profit-making ability.
Translation: provenir de / el tallo (literal)
I really think that we should ta___ i___ this opportunity. I think it’s going to be huge.
Definition: gain access to / take advantage
Translation: explotar / dar un golpecito (literal)
I really think that we should TAP INTO this opportunity. I think it’s going to be huge.
Definition: gain access to / take advantage
Translation: explotar / dar un golpecito (literal)
Let’s g___ ov___ our plans one more time to make sure we’re all on the same page.
Definition: consider or examine again
Translation: repasar
Let’s GO OVER our plans one more time to make sure we’re all on the same page.
Definition: consider or examine again
Translation: repasar
I haven’t had a chance yet, but I’ll se___ t__ it as soon as possible. Sorry!
Definition: give attention to a situation
Translation: ver (literal)
I haven’t had a chance yet, but I’ll SEE TO it as soon as possible. Sorry!
Definition: give attention to a situation
Translation: ver (literal)
Give me a few days to th___ it ov___, if you don’t mind.
Definition: contemplate something for a period of time, especially in order to make a decision
Give me a few days to THINK it OVER, if you don’t mind.
Definition: contemplate something for a period of time, especially in order to make a decision
And to t___ it o___, the quality materials give this design a luxury feel.
Definition: a final point that is impressive
Translation: coronar
And to TOP it OFF, the quality materials give this design a luxury feel.
Definition: a final point that is impressive
Translation: coronar
I’ll p___ i___ for a quick chat at around 11:30, if that’s okay.
Definition: to enter/visit briefly
I’ll POP IN for a quick chat at around 11:30, if that’s okay.
Definition: to enter/visit briefly
Ho___ o___ a second, why don’t we create a separate website for this product?
Definition: stop momentarily / wait for a short period of time
Translation: esperar
HOLD ON a second, why don’t we create a separate website for this product?
Definition: stop momentarily / wait for a short period of time
Translation: esperar
It all bo___ do___ t__ three critical issues; improved efficiency, error reduction and better staff scheduling.
Translation: reducirse a
It all BOILS DOWN TO three critical issues; improved efficiency, error reduction and better staff scheduling.
Translation: reducirse a
You’re right, it might not be the perfect plan. But let’s sti___ w___ this idea for now and we’ll reassess things in a couple of week’s time.
Translation: permanecer con / seguir con
You’re right, it might not be the perfect plan. But let’s STICK WITH this idea for now and we’ll reassess things in a couple of week’s time.
Translation: permanecer con / seguir con
The government hasn’t completely ru___ ou___ nuclear energy, they’re still considering it as an option.
Translation: descartar
The government hasn’t completely RULED OUT nuclear energy, they’re still considering it as an option.
Translation: descartar
In the end, it all co___ d___ t__ what works best for you. Don’t worry about what everyone else thinks.
Translation: ser cuestión de
In the end, it all COMES DOWN TO what works best for you. Don’t worry about what everyone else thinks.
Translation: ser cuestión de
Some suppliers, she said, have ba___ o___ o__ contracts, after realising they can get a better price elsewhere.
Translation: echarse atrás
Some suppliers, she said, have BACKED OUT OF contracts, after realising they can get a better price elsewhere.
Translation: echarse atrás
Perfect. That’s two more things cr___ o___ my list.
Translation: tachar
Perfect. That’s two more things CROSSED OFF my list.
Translation: tachar
We adh___ t___ the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
Translation: adherirse a / cumplir con
We ADHERE TO the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
Translation: adherirse a / cumplir con
We dr___ o___ our wins and losses from past projects to create the new strategy.
Definition: to use your experience or skills as a resource
Translation: hacer uso de
We DREW ON our wins and losses from past projects to create the new strategy.
Definition: to use your experience or skills as a resource
Translation: hacer uso de
This study aims to ho___ i___ o___ the key elements of leadership in order to understand what makes a great leader.
Definition: to focus on a very specific objective or area
This study aims to HONE IN ON the key elements of leadership in order to understand what makes a great leader.
Definition: to focus on a very specific objective or area
I’ve jo___ d___ a quick list of points to discuss.
Definition: take notes / write briefly
Translation: apuntar / anotar
I’ve JOTTED DOWN a quick list of points to discuss.
Definition: take notes / write briefly
Translation: apuntar / anotar
The discussion will cen___ ar___ reducing waste.
Definition: the main subject of attention or focus
Translation: girar en torno a
The discussion will CENTER AROUND reducing waste.
Definition: the main subject of attention or focus
Translation: girar en torno a
Hello, good morning. I just wanted to in___ a___ a product I’ve seen on your website.
Definition: ask for information about something
Translation: hacer una consulta sobre
Hello, good morning. I just wanted to INQUIRE ABOUT a product I’ve seen on your website.
Definition: ask for information about something
Translation: hacer una consulta sobre
We’re hoping to br___ o___ into new, international markets with our products next year.
Translation: ampliar horizontes / diversificarse / rama (literal)
We’re hoping to BRANCH OUT into new, international markets with our products next year.
Translation: ampliar horizontes / diversificarse / rama (literal)
I absolutely cra___ u___. Seriously… Adam is just so funny.
Translation: desternillarse de risa
I absolutely CRACKED UP. Seriously… Adam is just so funny.
Translation: desternillarse de risa
The job of a seed researcher is to pi___ to___ what you could describe as ‘a complex genetic puzzle’.
Definition: make something by joining various parts
Translation: pieza (literal)
The job of a seed researcher is to PIECE TOGETHER what you could describe as ‘a complex genetic puzzle’.
Definition: make something by joining various parts
Translation: pieza (literal)
I will p___ w___ your request to close the account.
Translation: proceder con
I will PROCEED WITH your request to close the account.
Translation: proceder con
I’m wondering whether it has something t__ d___ w___ the cables. Perhaps one of them is broken.
Translation: tener que ver con
I’m wondering whether it has something TO DO WITH the cables. Perhaps one of them is broken.
Translation: tener que ver con
I’ll pass all of this on to my colleague Alex, he’ll pr___ everything u___ for you and we’ll send you a quote by email.
Definition: to calculate the cost
I’ll pass all of this on to my colleague Alex, he’ll PRICE everything UP for you and we’ll send you a quote by email.
Definition: to calculate the cost
The meeting won’t l___ f___ more than an hour, we’ll have time to get this done after.
Translation: durar
The meeting won’t LAST FOR more than an hour, we’ll have time to get this done after.
Translation: durar
Yes, thank you, everything’s great. We’ve g___ a lot o___, always busy, you know how it is. But all is well.
Definition: the amount of tasks or work you have to do
Yes, thank you, everything’s great. We’ve GOT a lot ON, always busy, you know how it is. But all is well.
Definition: the amount of tasks or work you have to do
Almost a whole year has g___ b___ without us even noticing!
Translation: pasar
Almost a whole year has GONE BY without us even noticing!
Translation: pasar
Unfortunately the changes have only l___ t___ fresh tensions among citizens.
Translation: llevar a
Unfortunately the changes have only LED TO fresh tensions among citizens.
Translation: llevar a
I tend to co___ u___ w___ good ideas when I’m either in the shower or out for a walk.
Definition: produce ideas
Translation: sugerir
I tend to COME UP WITH good ideas when I’m either in the shower or out for a walk.
Definition: produce ideas
Translation: sugerir
We’re h___ t___ reach €250.000 in revenue this quarter.
Translation: esperar
We’re HOPING TO reach €250.000 in revenue this quarter.
Translation: esperar
It’s so lovely to he___ f___ you Angela! We haven’t spoken in ages.
Translation: saber de
It’s so lovely to HEAR FROM you Angela! We haven’t spoken in ages.
Translation: saber de
Sorry, I didn’t quite catch the last thing you said. The internet c___ o___ for a few seconds.
Translation: cortarse
Sorry, I didn’t quite catch the last thing you said. The internet CUT OUT for a few seconds.
Translation: cortarse
I decided not to bo___ w___ a new checkout page in the end. Why fix something that isn’t broken?
Definition: take the trouble or make the effort to do something
Translation: molestarse con
I decided not to BOTHER WITH a new checkout page in the end. Why fix something that isn’t broken?
Definition: take the trouble or make the effort to do something
Translation: molestarse con
Don’t worry. I’ll ta___ ca___ of it. Leave it to me.
Translation: encargarse de / cuidar (literal)
Don’t worry. I’ll TAKE CARE of it. Leave it to me.
Translation: encargarse de / cuidar (literal)
It’s just a case of we___ u___ the pros and cons before making a decision.
Translation: sopesar
It’s just a case of WEIGHING UP the pros and cons before making a decision.
Translation: sopesar
The entire logistical chain will have to change its procedures in order to cat___ f___ new security considerations.
Definition: to accomodate / provide what is required
Translation: satisfacer
The entire logistical chain will have to change its procedures in order to CATER FOR new security considerations.
Definition: to accomodate / provide what is required
Translation: satisfacer
The meeting r___ ov___ by about 20 minutes.
Definition: exceed the expected or required amount of time
The meeting RAN OVER by about 20 minutes.
Definition: exceed the expected or required amount of time
My colleague Tony is responsible for dr___ u___ contracts. I’ll transfer you to him now. One moment, please.
Translation: redactar
My colleague Tony is responsible for DRAWING UP contracts. I’ll transfer you to him now. One moment, please.
Translation: redactar
We bo___ b___ fairly quickly after the pandemic and business is going well again now.
Translation: recuperarse / rebotar (literal)
We BOUNCED BACK fairly quickly after the pandemic and business is going well again now.
Translation: recuperarse / rebotar (literal)
The government seriously needs to intensify its efforts to cra___ d___ o___ organized crime and corruption.
Translation: tomar medidas enérgicas
The government seriously needs to intensify its efforts to CRACK DOWN ON organized crime and corruption.
Translation: tomar medidas enérgicas
The company’s total losses have am___ t___ ten thousand pounds this year.
Translation: ascender a
The company’s total losses have AMOUNTED TO ten thousand pounds this year.
Translation: ascender a
I just wanted to a___ f___ my late report. Unfortunately the file corrupted and I had to start again.
Translation: pedir disculpa
I just wanted to APOLOGISE FOR my late report. Unfortunately the file corrupted and I had to start again.
Translation: pedir disculpa
C___ that w___ what this brand offers… There are so many more features… It’s a no-brainer!
Translation: contrastar con
CONTRAST that WITH what this brand offers… There are so many more features… It’s a no-brainer!
Translation: contrastar con
It’s been difficult having to co___ w___ staff shortages during the pandemic but we’ve just about managed.
Definition: to deal with a difficulty
Translation: sobrellevar
It’s been difficult having to COPE WITH staff shortages during the pandemic but we’ve just about managed.
Definition: to deal with a difficulty
Translation: sobrellevar
We need to de___ more time t___ marketing before the Christmas season begins.
Translation: dedicarse / devoción (literal)
We need to DEVOTE more time TO marketing before the Christmas season begins.
Translation: dedicarse / devoción (literal)
The number of staff working on site di___ f___ day to day depending on what stage of construction we’re on.
Translation: variar / diferir (literal)
The number of staff working on site DIFFERS FROM day to day depending on what stage of construction we’re on.
Translation: variar / diferir (literal)
The new regulations will disc___ investors f___ investing.
Translation: disanimar / disuadir
The new regulations will DISCOURAGE investors FROM investing.
Translation: disanimar / disuadir
It’s important to d___ cause f___ effect.
Translation: distinguir de
It’s important to DISTINGUISH cause FROM effect.
Translation: distinguir de
I have to put my phone on silent or it’ll d___ me f___ my work.
Translation: distraer de
I have to put my phone on silent or it’ll DISTRACT me FROM my work.
Translation: distraer de
I had always d___ o___ owning a house in this neighbourhood.
Translation: soñar de
I had always DREAMED OF owning a house in this neighbourhood.
Translation: soñar de
The spreadsheet e___ sales f___ 2018.
Translation: excluir de
The spreadsheet EXCLUDES sales FROM 2018.
Translation: excluir de
We’re going to have to re___ t___ getting some temps in to cover these extra hours before we start falling behind.
Definition: take an action that you didn’t really want to take in order to fix a problem
We’re going to have to RESORT TO getting some temps in to cover these extra hours before we start falling behind.
Definition: take an action that you didn’t really want to take in order to fix a problem
I didn’t manage to g___ ho___ o___ Sarah. I’ll try her again later on.
Definition: be able to contact
I didn’t manage to GET HOLD OF Sarah. I’ll try her again later on.
Definition: be able to contact
I’ll have to sh___ o___ quite quickly after lunch as I have a dental appointment.
Definition: leave a place quickly
Translation: disparar (literal)
I’ll have to SHOOT OFF quite quickly after lunch as I have a dental appointment.
Definition: leave a place quickly
Translation: disparar (literal)
If you persevere, you’ll su___ i___ in the end. Take my word for it.
Translation: tener éxito
If you persevere, you’ll SUCCEED IN in the end. Take my word for it.
Translation: tener éxito
Modernization is the key to sp___ u___ our productivity and profitability.
Definition: to make faster
Modernization is the key to SPEEDING UP our productivity and profitability.
Definition: to make faster
Governments want to ki___ st___ renewable energy projects by offering companies research funding.
Definition: provide initial momentum
Translation: inicio de arranque (literal)
Governments want to KICK START renewable energy projects by offering companies research funding.
Definition: provide initial momentum
Translation: inicio de arranque (literal)
We just need you to b___ u___ the products. Dan will show you how to do it.
Definition: to put in boxes
We just need you to BOX UP the products. Dan will show you how to do it.
Definition: to put in boxes
Ah, the scissors? Sorry, I just p___ them a___. Let me get them for you.
Translation: guardar
Ah, the scissors? Sorry, I just PUT them AWAY. Let me get them for you.
Translation: guardar
It suddenly da___ o___ me that I could be made redundant. So I started looking out for better opportunities.
Translation: caer en la cuenta
It suddenly DAWNED ON me that I could be made redundant. So I started looking out for better opportunities.
Translation: caer en la cuenta
We’ve be absolutely fl___ w___ sales.
Definition: to be inundated
Translation: inundar
We’ve be absolutely FLOODED WITH sales.
Definition: to be inundated
Translation: inundar
We’ll gat___ u___ all of the feedback from the previous weeks and then we’ll do some brainstorming.
Definition: to collect and put together
We’ll GATHER UP all of the feedback from the previous weeks and then we’ll do some brainstorming.
Definition: to collect and put together
If you li___ u___ those books, the clipboard should be underneath.
Translation: levantar
If you LIFT UP those books the, clipboard should be underneath.
Translation: levantar
For many reporters, the most difficult part of telling a story is deciding what to lea___ o___. Not what to put in.
Translation: omitir
For many reporters, the most difficult part of telling a story is deciding what to LEAVE OUT. Not what to put in.
Translation: omitir
The initiative aims to lev___ o___ enrollment rates between girls and boys.
Definition: to make more equal
The initiative aims to LEVEL OUT enrollment rates between girls and boys.
Definition: to make more equal
The system has been pl___ u___ all day. Sorry to keep you waiting.
Definition: misbehaving / malfunctioning
Translation: jugar (literal)
The system has been PLAYING UP all day. Sorry to keep you waiting.
Definition: misbehaving / malfunctioning
Translation: jugar (literal)
My son Aaron is p___ o___ studying environmental engineering.
Definition: your intentions
Translation: planificar (literal)
My son Aaron is PLANNING ON studying environmental engineering.
Definition: your intentions
Translation: planificar (literal)
For now, I’ve just got it written down in my notebook, but I’ll ty___ it u___ in neat this afternoon.
Definition: write on your computer
Translation: escribir a máquina
For now, I’ve just got it written down in my notebook, but I’ll TYPE it UP in neat this afternoon.
Definition: write on your computer
Translation: escribir a máquina
This product has ta___ ov___ the other one in popularity now.
Translation: sobrepasar / dominar
This product has TAKEN OVER the other one in popularity now.
Translation: sobrepasar / dominar
Would you mind ta___ these files u___ to Daniel? He’s on the third floor.
Definition: subir
Would you mind TAKING these files UP to Daniel? He’s on the third floor.
Definition: subir
Careful you don’t f___ o___. All of these cables on the floor are a bit of a safety hazard.
Translation: caerse
Careful you don’t FALL OVER. All of these cables on the floor are a bit of a safety hazard.
Translation: caerse
A: “Could you let him know that it’s ready?” B: “Sure, I’ll p___ that o___ to him.”
Definition: to give someone information because another person asked you to
Translation: decir / pasar
A: “Could you let him know that it’s ready?” B: “Sure, I’ll PASS that ON to him.”
Definition: to give someone information because another person asked you to
Translation: decir / pasar
It looks as though these two orders were m___ u___.
Translation: confundir / mezclar
It looks as though these two orders were MIXED UP.
Translation: confundir / mezclar
Oh no, what button have I pressed? I hope I haven’t me___ it all u___!
Translation: estropear / desorden (literal)
Oh no, what button have I pressed? I hope I haven’t MESSED it all UP!
Translation: estropear / desorden (literal)
Wait times tend to be quite long. You may have to qu___ u___ for a while before you’re able to speak to anybody.
Translation: hacer cola
Wait times tend to be quite long. You may have to QUEUE UP for a while before you’re able to speak to anybody.
Translation: hacer cola
It’s nice having something to sn___ o___ throughout the day. I always bring in a cereal bar or some fruit and nut or something.
Translation: picar
It’s nice having something to SNACK ON throughout the day. I always bring in a cereal bar or some fruit and nut or something.
Translation: picar
I’m going to p___ you th___ to someone on the pensions team. Just a second, please.
Definition: to connect someone by phone to another person or place
Translation: pasar
I’m going to PUT you THROUGH to someone on the pensions team. Just a second, please.
Definition: to connect someone by phone to another person or place
Translation: pasar
I really don’t want to le___ you all d___ but I feel so unwell today, I don’t think I can come in. I’m so sorry!
Definition: fail to support or help someone as they had hoped or expected
Translation: decepcionar
I really don’t want to LET you all DOWN but I feel so unwell today, I don’t think I can come in. I’m so sorry!
Definition: fail to support or help someone as they had hoped or expected
Translation: decepcionar
We had to th___ a lot of them a___ because they were broken.
Translation: tirar / botar
We had to THROW a lot of them AWAY because they were broken.
Translation: tirar / botar
It’s usually best to g___ f___ neutral colors in a professional setting.
Definition: to select something
Translation: optar por / decidirse por
It’s usually best to GO FOR neutral colors in a professional setting.
Definition: to select something
Translation: optar por / decidirse por
I’d like to buy a new car, but I’m going to ho___ o___ until January to see if I can get a good deal in the sales.
Definition: delay or postpone an action or decision
Translation: aguantar
I’d like to buy a new car, but I’m going to HOLD OFF until January to see if I can get a good deal in the sales.
Definition: delay or postpone an action or decision
Translation: aguantar
The forum on the city’s economic outlook will br___ to___ local politicians and business owners.
Definition: cause a group of people to meet
Translation: reunir
The forum on the city’s economic outlook will BRING TOGETHER local politicians and business owners.
Definition: cause a group of people to meet
Translation: reunir
This week has absolutely f___ b___. I can’t believe it’s already Friday.
Definition: to pass very quickly
Translation: volar (literal)
This week has absolutely FLOWN BY. I can’t believe it’s already Friday.
Definition: to pass very quickly
Translation: volar (literal)
You’ll never guess who I bu___ in___ this morning?…. Robin! He was stood in front of me in the queue at Starbucks! What are the chances?
Translation: toparse con / chocar (literal)
You’ll never guess who I BUMPED INTO this morning?…. Robin! He was stood in front of me in the queue at Starbucks! What are the chances?
Translation: toparse con / chocar (literal)
Does that word even exist? I think I just m___ it u___, didn’t I?
Translation: inventar
Does that word even exist? I think I just MADE it UP, didn’t I?
Translation: inventar
If you ha___ t___ find any envelopes whilst you’re out, would you mind buying me some? I need 20 or so. I’ll pay you back after.
Definition: by chance
If you HAPPEN TO find any envelopes whilst you’re out, would you mind buying me some? I need 20 or so. I’ll pay you back after.
Definition: by chance
I’m still g___ t___ k___ the city to be honest. I haven’t had much time to explore yet.
Definition: the process of getting more familiar with a person or a place
Translation: llegar a conocer
I’m still GETTING TO KNOW the city to be honest. I haven’t had much time to explore yet.
Definition: the process of getting more familiar with a person or a place
Translation: llegar a conocer
We’ll be s___ o___ our spring catalog next week.
Translation: enviar / despachar
We’ll be SENDING OUT our spring catalog next week.
Translation: enviar / despachar
I’m calling to f___ u___ on the application I submitted last week.
Translation: hacer seguimiento
I’m calling to FOLLOW UP on the application I submitted last week.
Translation: hacer seguimiento
Would you just give me a second to lo___ u___ the details of your account? I’m placing you on hold. This won’t take long.
Translation: buscar
Would you just give me a second to LOOK UP the details of your account? I’m placing you on hold. This won’t take long.
Translation: buscar
The alarm g___ o___ everyday at 11am.
Translation: sonar
The alarm GOES OFF everyday at 11am.
Translation: sonar
I was lo___ th___ some brochures for some holiday ideas.
Translation: hojear
I was LOOKING THROUGH some brochures for some holiday ideas.
Translation: hojear
It was your birthday yesterday? You’re joking! Why didn’t you say anything! Let me take you out for a drink at lunch to ma___ u___ f___ not buying you anything.
Translation: compensar
It was your birthday yesterday? You’re joking! Why didn’t you say anything! Let me take you out for a drink at lunch to MAKE UP FOR not buying you anything.
Translation: compensar
A sheet of glass was kn___ ov___ and it smashed all over the floor.
Translation: tumbar
A sheet of glass was KNOCKED OVER and it smashed all over the floor.
Translation: tumbar
