Lesson 21 Flashcards
all over
throughout; everywhere
EXAMPLE 1: Nicole’s classmates are from all over the world, including Argentina, Brazil, China, Japan, Korea, Poland, and Ukraine.
EXAMPLE 2: Oh no! I got ketchup all over my white sweater.
(to) come to an agreement
to reach an agreement
EXAMPLE 1: If we can come to an agreement now, I can start work on Monday.
EXAMPLE 2: If you’re not willing to negotiate, it’s going to be very difficult for us to come to an agreement.
in that case
under that circumstance
EXAMPLE 1: It’s snowing? In that case, you’d better take the bus to school today instead of driving.
EXAMPLE 2: You forgot your wallet at home today? In that case, you can borrow five bucks from me for lunch.
(to be or to get) in touch with (someone)
to be or to get in contact with (someone)
EXAMPLE 1: I was surprised when Luis called me, since we hadn’t been in touch with each other since high school.
EXAMPLE 2: Leave me your contact information in case I need to get in touch with you while you’re on vacation.
(to) look forward to
to anticipate eagerly
EXAMPLE 1: I’m looking forward to my trip to Mexico next month.
EXAMPLE 2: Ron has worked as a high school teacher for over 40 years. He’s really looking forward to retiring next year.
(to) make one’s day
to give one great satisfaction
EXAMPLE 1: Our neighbors with the crazy dogs are moving away? That really makes my day!
EXAMPLE 2: Thanks for bringing over those cookies last week. That made my day!
nuts and bolts
details; basic components of something
EXAMPLE 1: I don’t need to know the nuts and bolts of how the computer works - just show me how to tum it on.
EXAMPLE 2: Simon really understands the nuts and bolts of how toilets work. He would be a very good plumber.
on a shoestring
on a very low budget
EXAMPLE 1: Bob and Susan were living on a shoestring after Bob lost his job.
EXAMPLE 2: In the beginning, the Hewlett-Packard company ran on a shoestring out of a garage.
track record
a record of achievements or performances
EXAMPLE 1: The women’s basketball team at the University of Connecticut has an excellent track record.
EXAMPLE 2: We’ve spoken to your past employers, so we know you’ve got an excellent track record.
(to) work out
to find a solution; to resolve
EXAMPLE 1: Nicole spent half the night helping Ted work out a very difficult chemistry problem.
EXAMPLE 2: Sally couldn’t work out her problems with her neighbors, so she finally decided to move away.
Note: “Work out” has several other meanings, including:
- succeed; prove effective. This plan won’t work out-you’ll need to go back to the drawing board and work out a new plan.
- endure; last. Tony and Angela argue all the time. I don’t think their marriage will work out.
- exercise. After working out at the gym for two hours, Scott could barely walk.
