TASK SHEET A collocations and fixed expressions

KEY NOUN ability YOUR NOTES / EXAMPLES

account

A gentle form of exercise will increase your ability to relax. A woman of her ability will easily find a job. Almost everyone has some musical ability. Gladstone was a politician of great ability. He was a man of extraordinary abilities. He's a writer of great / remarkable ability. I don't have the ability to say 'no'. I try to do my job to the best of my ability (= as well as I can). It takes hard work and natural ability to make it as (= succeed as) a professional athlete. Just try to do the job to the best of your ability. leadership ability mixed ability classes (=classes that include students who are at different levels) Our courses cater for different levels of ability. students of average / high / low ability students of mixed abilities The health center serves all patients, regardless of their ability to pay. The test measures verbal and mathematical ability. The work will vary according to your abilities. There are musicians of all abilities in the orchestra. Tiredness can seriously impair your ability to drive.

- DESCRIPTION - a written or spoken description that says what happens in an event or process

He was too shocked to give an account of what had happened (= to give a written or spoken description that says

what happens in an event or process) A blow-by-blow account of how England lost to Portugal (=a description of all the details of an event in the order that they happened) Eye-witness accounts told of the unprovoked shooting of civilians (=description of events by someone who saw them) This gives a first-hand account of the war. -AT A BANK - written abbreviation a/c or acct. an arrangement in which a bank keeps your money safe so that you can pay more in or take money out:

My salary is paid into my bank account. I'd like to open a bank account. (an arrangement between a bank and a customer that allows the customer to pay in and take out money) I've opened an account with Barclay's Bank. My husband and I have a joint account (=one that is shared between two people). checking account [= current account British English] = a bank account that you can take money out of at any time, and for which you are given checks to use to pay for things (= cont curent) deposit account = a bank account that pays interest on the money that you leave in it profit and loss account = a financial statement showing a company's income, spending, and profit over a particular period savings account = a bank account in which you keep money that you want to save for a period of time, and which pays you interest on the money you have in it

take account of something also take something into account = to consider or include particular facts or

details when making a decision or judgment about something:

These figures do not take account of changes in the rate of inflation.

She was told to wear flat shoes, on account of her back problem. ( = because of something else, especially a problem or difficulty) The accounts for last year showed a profit of $2 million. ( [plural] an exact record of the money that a company has received and the money it has spent) Eileen works in accounts. ( [uncountable] a department in a company that is responsible for keeping records of the amount of money spent and received)

on account - If you buy goods on account, you take them away with you and pay for them later

-BILL - a statement that shows how much money you owe for things you have bought from a shop
pay/settle your account (=pay what you owe) James left the restaurant, settling his account by credit card.

Arrangement to sell goods - an arrangement to sell goods and services to another company over a period of time: Our sales manager has secured several big accounts recently.

By/from all accounts = according to what a lot of people say:

It has, from all accounts, been a successful marriage.

On somebody`s account = if you do something on someone's account, you do it because you think they want you to: Please don't change your plans on my account.

On your own account = by yourself or for yourself: Carrie decided to do a little research on her own account.

On no account/not on any account - used when saying that someone must not, for any reason, do something:

On no account

must you disturb me.

By somebody`s own account = according to what you have said, especially when you have admitted doing
something wrong: Bentley was, by his own account, over-sensitive to criticism.

On that account / on this account = concerning a particular situation: There needn't be any more worries on that account.

Give a good / poor account of yourself = to do something or perform very well or very badly:
Kevin gave a good account of himself in today's game. Bring / call somebody to account = formal to force someone who is responsible for a mistake or a crime to explain publicly why they did it and punish them for it if necessary:

The people responsible for the accident have never been brought to account. Put / turn something to good account = formal to use something for a good purpose: Perhaps she could put some of her talents to good account by helping us. On no / little account = formal not important: As she grew up, her father was of no account to her.

activity

1 [countable usually plural] something that you do because you enjoy it: leisure/recreation/outdoor/cultural etc activities. E.g. : outdoor activities such as hiking or climbing 2 [uncountable and countable] things that people do in order to achieve a particular aim: political/economic/ business etc activity . E.g. : Everyone is free to engage in peaceful political activity. fund-raising activities = activitati de strangere de fonduri 3 [uncountable] a situation in which a lot of things are happening or a lot of things are being done: - the noise and activity of the city - There's an amazing level of activity in the town centre currently. - physical/mental activity : Regular physical activity helps to control your weight. - an opinion you give someone about what they should do - advice on/about: There's lots of advice in the book on baby care Could you give me some advice about buying a home? - legal/medical/financial etc advice: If I were you, I'd get some legal advice.

advice

- professional/expert advice (=advice from someone who knows a lot about a subject): I want to ask your advice
about where to stay - follow/take somebody's advice (=do what they advise you) : I followed my father's advice and sold the car. Take my advice and study something practical. - a piece/word of advice: Let me give you a piece of advice. Wear a blue suit to the interview.

agreement

- on somebody's advice : On her doctor's advice (=because her doctor advised her) Smith decided to take early retirement. ! Do not confuse the noun advice with the verb adviseHe gave me some useful advice. Can you advise me on college courses? 1 [countable] an arrangement or promise to do something, made by two or more people, companies, organizations etc: Does your employer have an agreement with a union? an agreement on arms reduction (= acord cu privire la ...) Failure to reach an agreement will result in a strike. Haydon came to an agreement with his creditors. Under the agreement, most agricultural prices would be frozen or cut. ( = n temeiul acordului) They had an agreement that she would give them any leftover food from her shop. They claimed the company had broken the terms of the agreement. 2 [uncountable] when people have the same opinion as each other [ disagreement] There is general agreement that copyright is a good idea. There is widespread agreement on the need for prison reform. A decision will not be made until everyone is in agreement (to be in agreement = a fi de acord) It is easier for two parties to reach agreement than for three. ( = a ajunge la un acord) 3 [uncountable] when someone says yes to an idea, plan, suggestion etc

aim

Agreement to do something: Would their discussion result in his agreement to visit his stepmother? Such arrangements cannot be altered without the agreement of the bank.

4 [countable]SCL an official document that people sign to show that they have agreed to something:

Please read the agreement and sign it. a hire purchase agreement ( = un acord de cumparare / inchiriere)

NOUN 1 [countable] something you hope to achieve by doing something Aim of The aim of the research is to find new food sources. The main aim of the course is to improve your writing.

With the aim of doing something - a campaign with the aim of helping victims of crime - Teamwork is required in order to achieve these aims. - a policy which sets out the school's aims and objectives

2 take aim to point a gun or weapon at someone or something you want to shoot: Alan took aim at the target. 3 take aim at somebody/something (American English) to criticize someone or something: Critics took aim at the President. 4 [uncountable] someone's ability to hit what they are aiming at when they throw or shoot something: Val's aim was very good. VERB 1 [intransitive] to try or intend to achieve something aim to do something - We aim to finish by Friday. (be) aimed at doing something - an initiative aimed at reducing road accidents Aim for - We're aiming for a big improvement.

2 aim something at somebody = to say or do something that is intended for a particular person or group of people (care vizeaz): a program that's aimed at teenagers The criticism wasn't aimed at you.
3 [intransitive and transitive] to choose the place, person etc that you want to hit or reach and point a weapon or another object towards them: Denver aimed his gun but did not shoot. The pilot was aiming for the runway but came down in a nearby field. analysis NOUN ( plural analyses) 1 [uncountable and countable] a) a careful examination of something in order to understand it better:

a detailed analysis of the week's news Further analysis of the data is needed

do/carry out/conduct an analysis: They were doing some type of statistical analysis. b) the way in which someone describes a situation or problem, and says what causes it to happen: Do you agree with Marx's analysis of the failure of free-market capitalism? 2 [uncountable and countable]

a careful examination of a substance to see what it is made of : analysis of genetic material Blood samples were sent for analysis. You'll get the results when the analysis is complete. 3 [uncountable] a process in which a doctor makes someone talk about their past experiences, relationships etc in order to help them with mental or emotional problems [= psychoanalysis; therapy]: In the final analysis, profit is the motive. VERB ((analyse, analyze) 1 to examine or think about something carefully, in order to understand it:

2 to examine a substance to see what it is made of: The cell samples are analyzed by a lab 3 to examine someone's mental or emotional problems by using psychoanalysis answer

She still needs to analyse the data. You need to sit down and analyse why you feel so upset. Joe had never tried to analyze their relationship.

NOUN
1 REPLY [uncountable and countable] something you say when you reply to a question that someone has asked you [= response]

give (somebody) an answer: You don't have to give them an answer now get/receive an answer wait for an answer: She's still waiting for an answer from the school. an honest/straight answer: The honest answer was that I didn't know. He was never able to get a straight answer about why it happened. a definite answer (=when you say definitely yes or no): It's impossible for me to give you a definite answer at this time. the short/simple answer is ... spoken: The short answer is that it can't be done in answer to somebody's question: In answer to your question, yes, you can go. the answer is yes/no spoken: If it's money you want, the answer is no!

2 TEST COMPETITION ETC [countable] something that you write or say in reply to a question in a test or competition: Did you ever get an answer to your letter? 3 INVITATION/LETTER ETC [countable] a written reply to a letter, invitation, advertisement etc Did you ever get an answer to your letter?

4 PROBLEM [countable] a way of dealing with a problem [= solution] simple/easy/obvious answer: There is no simple answer. Answer to: The police do not have an answer to rising crime. Some people think cars should be banned from the city, but I don't think that's the answer.

be the answer to somebody's problems/worries etc: If he could get a job it'd be the answer to all his worries.

5 ON THE PHONE [singular, uncountable usually in negative]TCT if you get an answer when you call someone on the phone, they pick up the phone and talk to you: I tried calling him all day but couldn't get an answer. 6 AT THE DOOR [singular, uncountable usually in negative] if you get an answer when you knock on a door, someone opens it and talks to you : I tried knocking on her door, but there was no answer. 7 have/know all the answers [informal] to be very sure that you know everything about a situation, especially when you do not: He acts like he has all the answers.

8.somebody's answer to something [written] someone or something that is considered to be just as good as a more famous
person or thing: The Space Needle is Seattle's answer to the Eiffel Tower.

VERB
1 REPLY [intransitive and transitive] to say something to someone as a reply when they have asked you a question, made a suggestion etc: She thought for a moment before answering. He still hadn't answered my question. 'Why don't you just leave?' 'I'd like to,' she answered, 'but I have nowhere else to go.' Answer that : When questioned, Hughes answered that he knew nothing about the robbery. How much was it? Come on, answer me. 2 TEST [intransitive and transitive] to write or say the answer to a question in a test or competition: Answer as many questions as possible in the time provided.

3 answer the phone/a call/the door to pick up the telephone and speak when it rings or open the door when someone knocks or rings the bell 4 LETTER [transitive] if you answer a letter or advertisement, you write a letter to the person who has written it: Simon got the job by answering an advert in the paper 5 answer criticism/charges/accusations etc to explain why you did something when people are criticizing you - used in news reports: How do you answer the criticism that your government has done nothing to help the homeless? 6 REACT TO SOMETHING [intransitive and transitive] to do something as a reaction to criticism or an attack [= respond]: The army answered by firing into the crowd. 7 DEAL WITH A PROBLEM [transitive] to be a way of dealing with or solving a problem: 'You can borrow my car if you like.' 'Well, that answers one problem.' 8 answer a need to provide something that is needed: Our transportation system is designed to answer the needs of the city's commuters. 9 answer a description if someone answers a description, they match that description: A man answering the police's description was seen entering the building.

answer back [phrasal verb] to reply in a rude way to someone that you are supposed to obey Don't answer me back young man! answer for somebody/something [phrasal verb] 1 to explain to people in authority why you did something wrong or why something happened, and be punished if necessary: Their coach must answer for the team's poor performance. 2 have a lot to answer for informal to be responsible for causing a lot of trouble 3 can't answer for somebody spoken used to say that you cannot make a decision for someone who is not there, or give their opinion: I'm sure John will help us - I can't really answer for the others.

answer to somebody/something [phrasal verb] 1 to give an explanation to someone, especially about something that you have done wrong: Phipps answers to me and me alone. 2 answer to the name of something to be called a particular name - used humorously: a well-dressed young woman answering to the name of Suzanne 1 WRITTEN REQUEST [uncountable and countable] a formal, usually written, request for something such as a job, place at university, or permission to do something application for: an application for a grant application from: The university welcomes applications from overseas students. (= cerere din partea) We receive hundreds of job applications each year. (= cereri de locuri de munca) I filled in the application form and sent it off. (= am completat formularul de cerere) You have to submit your application before the end of the month. I've put in an application for a transfer. He received a letter saying that his application had been rejected. (= cererea lui a fost respinsa) It can take a long time for your visa application to be processed. (=cerere prelucrata) The Council is currently reviewing the way it deals with planning applications. Thank you for your letter of application, which we received yesterday. 2 PRACTICAL USE [uncountable and countable] practical purpose for which a machine, idea etc can be used, or a situation when this is used application of/to/in: the applications of genetic engineering in agriculture The research has many practical applications. 3 COMPUTERS [countable] a piece of computer software which does a particular job: We received training on a number of spreadsheet and database applications. 4 PAINT/LIQUID [uncountable and countable] when you put something such as paint, liquid, medicine etc onto a surface application of : The application of fertilizer increased the size of the plants. 5 EFFORT [uncountable] attention or effort over a long period of time: Making your new business successful requires luck, patience, and application. NOUN METHOD [countable] a method of doing something or dealing with a problem

application

approach

approach to a new approach to teaching languages He decided to adopt a different approach and teach the Bible through story-telling. This book takes an unorthodox approach to art criticism. organizations which take a positive approach to creative thinking 2 ASK [countable] a request from someone, asking you to do something for them: They made a direct approach to the minister of education. 3 the approach of something - the approach of a particular time or event is the fact that it is getting closer: the approach of autumn It's a sign of the approach of middle age. 4 MOVEMENT TOWARDS [uncountable] movement towards or near to something: Our approach frightened the birds. 5 PATH / ROAD[countable] a road, path etc that leads to a place, and is the main way of reaching it: Soldiers were guarding the approaches to the city. an approach road 6 AIRCRAFT [countable] the final part of a plane's flight, before it lands at an airport: It was clear to land so we made our approach. VERB 1 MOVE TOWARDS [intransitive and transitive] to move towards or nearer to someone or something: As I approached the house, I noticed a light on upstairs. She heard footsteps approaching.

2 ASK [transitive] to ask someone for something, or ask them to do something, especially when you are asking them for the first time or when you are not sure if they will do it approach somebody for something: Students should be able to approach teachers for advice. approach somebody/something about (doing) something The charity approached several stores about giving food aid. I have already been approached by several other companies (=offered a job, work etc).

3 FUTURE EVENT [intransitive and transitive] if an event or a particular time approaches, or you approach it, it is coming nearer and will happen soon: She was then approaching the end of her career. The time is fast approaching when we will have to make a decision. With winter approaching, many animals are storing food. 4 DEAL WITH [transitive] to begin to deal with a situation or problem in a particular way or with a particular attitude approach a problem/task/matter etc : It might be possible to approach the problem in a different way. 5 ALMOST[ [intransitive and transitive] to be almost equal to something: temperatures approaching 35C He's never had anything approaching a normal life.
Approachable - friendly and easy to talk to [ unapproachable]:

The head teacher is very approachable.

background Unaproachable - seeming unfriendly and therefore difficult to talk to 1 [countable] someone's family, education, previous work etc have a background (in something) : Steve has a background in computer engineering. with a background (in something): Students with a background in chemistry will probably find the course easier. (be/come) from different backgrounds: It's important to understand other people, people from different backgrounds. social background: people from different ethnic and social backgrounds cultural background: Cultural background might account for some of the variations noted in the studies. educational background ethnic background: the educational background of top executives family background class background: They told me everything there was to know about the child's family background. deprived/disadvantaged background (=not having many advantages): a program that helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds privileged background (=having many advantages) working-class/middle-class background

2 [uncountable and countable] the situation or past events that explain why something happens in the way that it does background to: Without knowing the background to the case, I couldn't possibly comment. against a background of something: The peace talks are being held against a background of increasing violence. background information/details/data etc : The author included a new chapter of background material for the second edition of the book. 3 [countable usually singular] the area that is behind the main thing that you are looking at, especially in a picture: The background looks out of focus. in the background: In the background you can see my college friends. 4 [countable] the pattern or colour on top of which something has been drawn, printed etc: red lettering on a white background 5 in the background someone who keeps or stays in the background tries not to be noticed: The President's advisors are content to remain in the background. 6 [uncountable and countable] the sounds that you can hear apart from the main thing that you are listening to

beginning

in the background: In the background I could hear the sound of traffic. All of the background noise made it difficult to have a phone conversation.

1 the start or first part of an event, story, period of time etc since the beginning (of something): She's been here since the beginning of the year. at the beginning (of something): There's a short poem at the beginning of every chapter. from the beginning: From the beginning of my career as a journalist, I've been writing about gender issues. in the beginning: I thought he loved me; perhaps he did in the beginning. mark the beginning of something: That chance meeting marked the beginning of a long and happy relationship. herald/signal the beginning of something (=show that something is starting) be just/only the beginning (=used to emphasize that something will continue or develop): This is just the beginning of a new and different life for you. right at the beginning: I said he would cause trouble, right from the beginning. right from the beginning: the very beginning: I opposed it from the very beginning. from beginning to end: The whole trip was a disaster from beginning to end. a new beginning: I feel like I've been offered a new beginning.

start at the beginning (=start an activity or story at the point where it is meant to start): Could we start at the beginning? Tell me where you first met him.

2 beginnings [plural] the early signs or stages of something that later develops into something bigger or more important beginnings of : I think I have the beginnings of a cold. from humble/small beginnings : He rose from humble beginnings to great wealth.

3 the beginning of the end = the time when something good starts to end
belief 1 [singular, uncountable] the feeling that something is definitely true or definitely exists

a strong/firm belief: a strong belief in God a sincere/passionate belief: his passionate belief that technology is a tool to be used with imagination it is somebody's belief that: It is my belief that we will find a cure for cancer in the next ten years. a mistaken/false belief: Thieves broke into the building in the mistaken belief that there was expensive computer equipment inside. a widespread/common/widely held belief (=something that many people think): It is a widely held belief that violent crime is increasing. a deeply held/strongly held belief (=something you believe very much): a strongly held belief that stealing is wrong a growing belief: a growing belief that war was inevitable popular belief (=what most people think) contrary to popular belief (=despite what most people think): Contrary to popular belief, eating carrots does not improve your eyesight.

2 [singular] the feeling that something is good and can be trusted belief in: If you're selling, you have to have genuine belief in the product. When you get something wrong, it can shake your belief in yourself.

3 [countable] an idea that you believe to be true, especially one that forms part of a system of ideas: religious beliefs Several members hold very right-wing beliefs. 4 beyond belief - used to emphasize that something is so extreme that it is difficult to believe: What she did was stupid beyond belief. benefit NOUN

1 advantage [uncountable and countable] an advantage, improvement, or help that you get from something
be of benefit (to somebody) (=be useful to someone) have the benefit of something: I never had the benefit of a university education. get/gain/derive benefit (from something): We want him to get maximum benefit from the course. reap the benefits (of something) (=enjoy the advantages of something): We're just beginning to reap the benefits of all our hard work. the full benefit (of something): You need to spend at least a week there to get the full benefit. for somebody's benefit: Could you just explain again for Mark's benefit? be to the benefit of somebody: I hope that the decision taken today will be to the benefit of the whole nation. mutual benefit (=useful to two or more people): My proposition, I assure you, would be to our mutual benefit. with/without the benefit (of something) (=using/not using something): Most motorists manage without the benefit of four-wheel drive. economic/financial/social benefits: the airport's economic benefit to the region health benefits: the health benefits of moderate wine consumption something outweighs the benefits of something (=something is more important than the benefits): How does one decide whether the economic costs of regulation will outweigh the economic benefits? 2 MONEY FROM GOVERNMENT [uncountable and countable] British English money provided by the government to people who are sick, unemployed, or have little money [= welfare American English] unemployment/housing/child etc benefit : You might be entitled to housing benefit. on benefit:families on benefit those people eligible to claim benefit 3 EXTRA THINGS [countable usually plural] extra money or other advantages that you get as part of your job or from insurance that you have: We offer an excellent benefits package. medical benefits 4 give somebody the benefit of the doubt = to accept what someone tells you even though you think they may be wrong or lying, but you cannot be sure: The referee gave him the benefit of the doubt. 5 with the benefit of hindsight/experience - used to say it is easier to know the right thing to do after something has happened or if you have a lot of experience: He admitted that with the benefit of hindsight the original launch had not been large enough. 6 benefit concert/performance/match - a concert, performance etc arranged to make money for charity: a benefit concert

for famine relief

cost-benefit analysis/study/approach = technical a way of calculating the methods or plans that will bring you the most benefits (=advantages or help) for the smallest cost, especially in business sickness benefit [uncountable] British English = money paid by the government to someone who is too ill to work side benefit [countable] = an additional advantage or good result that comes from something, besides its main purpose: A side benefit to filming close-up shots is that your microphone will pick up clearer sound. fringe benefit [countable usually plural] - an additional service or advantage given with a job besides wages: A competitive salary with fringe benefits will be offered. state benefit [uncountable and countable] British English = money given by the government in Britain to people who are poor, without a job, ill etc unemployment benefit - British English; unemployment benefits/compensation - American English [uncountable] = money paid regularly by the government to people who have no job: on unemployment benefit (=be getting unemployment benefit) people on unemployment benefit VERB benefit [past tense and past participle] benefited,[ present participle] benefiting [intransitive and transitive] if you benefit from something or it benefits you, it gives you an advantage, improves your life, or helps you in some way: They are working together to benefit the whole community. benefit from/by Many thousands have benefited from the new treatment. They would benefit by reducing their labour costs. benefit greatly/enormously/considerably etc I'm sure you'll benefit greatly from the visit.

business

1 buying or selling goods or services [uncountable] the activity of making money by producing or buying and selling goods,

or providing services [ commerce, trade]:

Students on the course learn about all aspects of business. We do business with a number of Italian companies. Vanessa decided to go into business as an art-dealer.

set up/start up in business The scheme offers free advice to people wanting to set up in business. In order to stay in business, you must do better than your competitors. the advertising/music/fashion etc business Carl began in the music business by running a recording studio. business activities/interests etc He has a wide range of business interests. 2 COMPANY [countable] an organization such as a company, shop, or factory that produces or sells goods or provides a service: She now has her own $25 million home-shopping business. They don't know how to run a business. The company began as a small family business (=owned and controlled by one family). Owners of small businesses (=that employ only a few people) will be hit hardest by these tax changes. big business (=large and powerful companies in general) Does big business have more control over our everyday lives than our elected governments? the business community (=people who work in business generally) the international business community 3 how much work a company has [uncountable] the amount of work a company does or the amount of money it makes:

We're now doing twice as much business as we did last year. Exports account for 72% of overall business

business is good/bad/slow etc: Business is slow during the summer. drum up business (=try to get more work for you or your company) : Perot was in Europe, drumming up business for his new investment company.

4 for your job [uncountable] work that you do as part of your job: She's in New York this week on business (=for her work). Hi Maggie! Is this phone call business or pleasure? business trip/meeting etc We discussed the idea over a business lunch. useful business contacts 5 what someone should [uncountable] a) if something is not your business or none of your business, you should not be involved in it or ask about it: It was not her business, she decided, to ask where the money came from. It's none of your business how much I weigh. 'Who's that girl you were with?' ' Mind your own business (=Don't ask questions about something that does not concern you)!' Are you going out with Kate tonight? 'That's my business' (=it doesn't concern you, so don't ask me questions about it). b) if it is someone's business to do something, it is their duty or responsibility to do it it is the business of somebody to do something It is the business of government to listen to the various groups within society. 6 things to be dealt with [uncountable] things that need to be done or discussed: Okay, let's get down to business (=start doing or discussing something). 'Is there any other business?' the chairman asked. 7 matter [singular] a situation or activity, especially one that you have a particular opinion about or attitude towards a serious/strange/funny etc business Leon regards keeping fit as a serious business. Tanya found the whole business ridiculous. 8 be in business a) to be involved in business activities: The company has been in business for over thirty years. b) spoken to have all that you need to start doing something: I've just got to buy the paint and then we're in business. 9 (go) out of business - if a company goes out of business, or something puts it out of business, it stops operating, especially because of financial problems: Higher interest rates will drive small firms out of business. 10be back in business - to be working or operating in a normal way again:

The band are back in business after a long break.

11 somebody was (just) minding their own business - spoken used to say that someone was not doing anything unusual or wrong at the time when something unfair or bad happened to them: I was driving along, minding my own business, when the police stopped my car. 12 go about your business - to do the things that you normally do: The street was full of ordinary people going about their business. 13 make it your business to do something- to make a special effort to do something: Ruth made it her business to get to know the customers. 14 mean business [informal] to be serious about doing something even if it involves harming someone: The border is guarded by troops who mean business. 15unfinished business - something you need to discuss further with someone or a situation that has not yet reached a satisfactory solution: The sudden death of a loved one can often leave the bereaved with an agonising sense of unfinished business. 16business is business - spoken used to say that profit is the most important thing to consider: We can't afford to employ someone who isn't good at the job - business is business. 17 business as usual- when someone or something is still working or operating normally when you think they might not be: Despite last night's scare, it was business as usual in the White House today. 18 have no business doing something/have no business to do something - to do something you should not be doing: He was drunk and had no business driving. 19 not be in the business of doing something - to not be intending to do something because you think it is a bad idea: I'm not in the business of selling my best players. 20 and all that business - spoken informal and other things of the same general kind: She handles the publicity and all that business. 21 (it's) the business - British English informal used to say that something is very good or works well: Have you seen David's new car? It's the business! 22 do the business -British English informala) to do what you are expected to do or what people want you to do: Come on, then, and do the business. b) to have sex

call

business hours [plural] = the normal hours that shops and offices are open business park [countable] = an area where many companies and businesses have buildings and offices business person [plural] business people [countable] = a person who works in business business plan [countable] = a document which explains what a company wants to do in the future, and how it plans to do it business studies [uncountable] = a course of study on economic and financial subjects and managing a business business suit [countable] - American English = a suit that someone wears during the day at work show business also showbiz [uncountable] informal = the entertainment industry, for example television, films, popular theatre etc in show business Phyllis always wanted to be in show business. The restaurant is always full of show business personalities company Verb 1 TELEPHONE [intransitive and transitive] to telephone someone: She calls her father every couple of days; I'll call you soon; What time did Tony call? call a doctor/the police/a cab etc (=telephone someone and ask them to come to you): I think we should call a doctor.; I'm gonna call the cops! 2 describe [transitive] to use a word or name to describe someone or something in a particular way call somebody something: Are you calling me a liar? You may call it harmless fun, but I call it pornography. call somebody names (=use insulting names for someone): The other kids used to call me names, but I tried to ignore them. 3 have a name [transitive] to have a particular name or title, or use a particular name or title for someone or something be called something: Our son is called Matthew. The arrow that appears on the screen is called a cursor. call somebody something: My name's Virginia, but my friends call me Ginny. Do you want to be called Miss or Ms? call somebody by something: I prefer to be called by my middle name.

4a give somebody/something a name [transitive] especially British English to give someone or something the name they will be known by in the future [= name American English]: What are you going to call the new puppy? call somebody something: They've decided to call the baby Louise 5 ask/order by speaking [transitive] to ask or order someone to come to you call somebody into/over/across etc: Peter called the waitress over and ordered a large brandy. Marcie was called up to the principal's office. 6 arrange [transitive] to arrange for something to happen at a particular time call a meeting/strike/election etc: The Security Council has called an emergency session to discuss the crisis. According to the law, the election must be called within the next two months.

7 say/shout [intransitive and transitive] to say or shout something loudly so that someone can hear you: I heard someone calling in the distance. 'I'm coming!' she called down the stairs. Sheila was just sneaking out when her mother called her. She heard him call her name.

8 call yourself something to say that you are a particular type of person, although you do nothing to show this is true: How could Julian call himself a friend and then let me down so badly? 9 call the shots/tune [informal] to be in a position of authority so that you can give orders and make decisions: It was a job in which she was able to call the shots. 10 call it a day [informal] to decide to stop working, especially because you have done enough or you are tired: Come on, let's call it a day and go home. 11 call collect American English to make a telephone call that is paid for by the person who receives it [= reverse the charges British English] 12 read names [transitive] also call out to read names or numbers in a loud voice in order to get someone's attention: When I call your name, go and stand in line. 13 Court[transitive usually passive] to tell someone that they must come to a law court or official committee call somebody to do something: They were called to give evidence at the trial. 14 call (something) into question = to make people uncertain about whether something is right, good, or true: I feel that my competence is being called into question here. 15 be/feel called to do something = to feel strongly that you should do something: He felt called to write to all his fellow investors, warning them of the impending crisis. 16 call somebody/something to order [formal] = to tell people to obey the rules of a formal meeting 17 visit [intransitive] also call round British English to stop at a house or other place for a short time to see someone or do something: She called round for a chat. call on somebody: Let's call on James on the way home. call (in) at something: I regularly called in at his office for news. call into something : People often call into the library while they're out shopping. 18 call it 10/2 hours etc - spoken used to suggest a general figure rather than a more specific one, especially in order to make things simpler:

'I owe you 10.20.' 'Oh, call it 10!'

19 call it a draw - if two opponents in a game call it a draw, they agree that neither of them has won 20 call it/things even - spoken use this to say that someone who owes you something does not have to give you anything more than they have already given you 21 call (somebody's) attention to a) to ask people to pay attention to a particular subject or problem: May I call your attention to item seven on the agenda. b) to make someone notice someone or something: I wanted to shout out to Ken, but I didn't want to call attention to myself. 22 call something to mind a) to remind you of something: Don't those two call to mind the days when we were courting? b) to remember something: I couldn't call to mind where I'd seen him before. 23 call a huddle American English informal to make people come together to talk about something 24 call time (on somebody/something) = to say that it is time for something to finish or stop 25 trains/ships [intransitive] if a train, ship, bus etc calls at a place, it stops there for a short time [= stop]: This train calls at all stations to Broxbourne. 26 COIN [intransitive and transitive] to guess which side of a coin will land upwards when it is thrown in the air, in order to decide who will play first in a game: It's your turn to call 27 card game [intransitive and transitive] to risk the same amount of money as the player who plays before you in a poker game 1 call (somebody) back to telephone someone again, for example because they were not at home when you telephoned last time: I'll call back later. Can you ask John to call me back when he gets in? 2 [British English] to return to a place you went to earlier: You could call back to collect her at noon. call by [phrasal verb] to stop and visit someone when you are near the place where they live or work: I thought I'd call by and see how you were.

call down something [phrasal verb] - formal - to ask for someone, especially a god, to make something unpleasant happen to someone or something call down something on/upon: He called down vengeance on them. call for somebody/something phrasal verb 1 if a group of people calls for something, they ask publicly for something to be done:

Human Rights groups are calling for the release of political prisoners. 2 to need or deserve a particular type of behaviour or treatment: Dealing with children who are so damaged calls for immense tact and sensitivity. That kind of abuse is really not called for (=it is unnecessary and unwelcome).
Uncalled for = behaviour or remarks that are uncalled for are not fair or suitable

3 British English to meet someone at their home in order to take them somewhere: I'll call for you at 8 o'clock. 4 American English to say that a particular kind of weather is likely to happen [= predict]: The forecast calls for more rain.
call something forth [phrasal verb] formal - to produce a particular reaction:

Great works of classical music can

often call forth a mixture of responses from the listener.

call in

1 call somebody/something in to ask someone to come and help you with a difficult situation: The government then called in troops to deal with the disturbances. 2 to telephone somewhere, especially the place where you work, to tell them where you are, what you are doing etc: Rachael called in sick (=telephoned to say she was too ill to come to work). 3 to telephone a radio or television show to give your opinion or to ask a question: Over 2000 viewers called in with complaints about the bad language used in the programme.

4 call in a loan/debt to officially tell someone to pay back money you lent them: The bank can call in the loan at any time. 5 British English to visit a person or place while you are on your way to somewhere else call in on/at Could you call in on Mum on your way home? all somebody/something off [phrasal verb] 1 to decide that a planned event will not take place [= cancel]: The trip to Italy might be called off. 2 to officially decide that something should be stopped after it has already started: Rescuers had to call off the search because of worsening weather conditions. 3 to order an animal or person to stop attacking or threatening someone: Call your dog off. call on/upon somebody/something [phrasal verb] 1 to formally ask someone to do something call on somebody to do something The UN has called on both sides to observe the ceasefire. 2 to visit someone for a short time: Why don't you call on my sister when you're in Brighton? call out [phrasal verb] 1 to say something loudly call something out : 'Hi there!' I called out. call out to : The firemen called out to him. 2 call somebody out = to ask or order a person or an organization to help, especially in a difficult or dangerous situation: The army was called out to help fight fires. 3 call somebody/something out British English to order workers to go on strike: The transport workers were called aut

call up [phrasal verb] -informal -especially American English to telephone someone call somebody up

He called me up to tell me about it. I'm going to call up and cancel my subscription.

2 call something up - if you call up information on a computer, you make the computer show it to you: I called up their website, but it didn't have the information I was looking for. 3 call somebody up -British English - to officially order someone to join the army, navy, or air force [= draft American English] I was called up three months after war broke out. 4call somebody up to choose someone for a national sports team [ call-up]: Hurst was called up for the game against Mexico. 5 call something up = to produce something or make it appear: She can call up the spirits of the dead. NOUN 1 telephone [countable] when you speak to someone on the telephone

phone call: Were there any phone calls for me while I was out? Make a call: It's cheaper to make calls after 6pm give somebody a call: I'll give you a call at the weekend. get/receive a call: I got a call from Jane last week. take a call (=speak to someone on the phone when someone else has answered): I'll take the call in my office. return a call (=telephone someone who tried to telephone you earlier): Why haven't you returned any of my calls? local call: You can make a local call for under 2p a minute. long-distance call: I don't make many long-distance calls, so my phone bill's usually quite low. incoming call (=a call someone makes to you): This telephone only accepts incoming calls hoax/crank call (=a call intended to trick someone): Detectives are investigating a hoax call which led to the evacuation of an office block.

anonymous call (=from an unknown person): an anonymous call to a Sunday newspaper

2 be on call - if someone such as a doctor or engineer is on call, they are ready to go and help whenever they are needed as part of their job: Don't worry, there's a doctor on call 24 hours a day. 3 shout/cry [countable] a) a loud sound that a bird or animal makes [= cry] call of - the call of an owl b) a shout that you make to get someone's attention 4 visit [countable] a visit, especially for a particular reason: Sorry, Doctor Pugh is out on a call at the moment. pay/make a call (on somebody) (=visit someone) 5 request/order [countable] a request or order for something or for someone to do something: Members obediently answered the calls for funds. call for somebody to do something There have been calls for the secretary to resign. a call to arms (=an order for people to fight against an enemy) 6 decision a) [countable] the decision made by a referee in a sports game make a good/bad call There may have been a few bad calls, but they're making them for a reason. b) [singular] informal a decision: Don't just say what you think I would like. It's your call. make a call (=decide something) an easy/hard call (=an easy or difficult decision) judgement call (=a decision based on your personal judgement of a situation) 7 there isn't much call for something - used for saying that not many people want a particular thing: There isn't much call for black and white televisions these days. 8 there is no call for something - spoken used to tell someone that their behaviour is wrong and unnecessary:

There's no call for that kind of language!

9 at an airport [countable] a message announced at an airport that a particular plane will soon leave: This is the last call for flight BA872 to Moscow. 10 have first call on something a) to have the right to be the first person to use something b) to be the first person that you will help because they are important to you: Her children had first call on her time. 11 the call of something - literary the power that a place or way of life has to attract someone: the call of the sea 12 the call of nature = a need to urinate (=pass liquid from your body) - used especially humorously calling [countable] 1 a strong desire or feeling of duty to do a particular kind of work, especially religious work [= vocation]: It wasn't until Durant was in her thirties that she found her calling. 2 formal someone's profession or trade call option [countable] technical = the right to buy a particular number of shares at a special price within a particular period of time curtain call [countable] = the time at the end of a performance when the actors come to the front of the stage to receive applause house call [countable] = a visit that someone, especially a doctor, makes to a person in that person's home as part of their job last call [uncountable] -American English - the time when customers in a bar can order one more drink before the bar closes [= last orders British English] name-calling [uncountable] - when people use unpleasant words to describe someone in order to insult or upset them: playground teasing including name-calling port of call [plural] ports of call [countable usually singular] 1 informal one of a series of places that you visit: My first port of call will be the post office. 2 a port where a ship stops on a journey from one place to another roll-call [uncountable and countable] = the act of reading out an official list of names to check who is there so-called [only before noun]

1 used to describe someone or something that has been given a name that you think is wrong: The so-called experts couldn't tell us what was wrong. 2 used to show that something or someone is usually called a particular name: the health threats posed by so-called 'mad cow disease' wake-up call [countable] 1 an experience or event that shocks you and makes you realize that you must do something to change a situation: The success of extremist groups in the elections should be a wake-up call to all decent citizens. 2 a telephone call that someone makes to you, especially at a hotel, to wake you up in the morning [= alarm call] NOUN 1 a job or profession that you have been trained for, and which you do for a long period of your life career in: a career in journalism, a teaching career.He realized that his acting career was over. career development/advancement/progression etc: Career prospects within the company are excellent. a physiotherapist who wanted to make a dramatic career change by becoming an author Nurses want an improved career structure (=better opportunities to move upwards in their jobs). 2 career soldier/teacher etc = someone who intends to be a soldier, teacher etc for most of their life, not just for a particular period of time: - a career diplomat 3 the period of time in your life that you spend doing a particular activity: She had not had a very impressive school career up till then. My career as an English teacher didn't last long. Beating the defending champion has to be the highlight of my career. Your career is the type of work that you do or hope to do for most of your life: I'm interested in a career in television. His career is more important to him than his family. VERB

career

career [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] -British English - to move forwards quickly without control, making sudden sideways movements [= careen American English] career down/along/towards etc : The truck careered down the hill and into a tree. career break [countable] = a short period of time when you do not work in your usual job or profession, for example because you want to look after your children

career coach [countable] - someone whose job is to help people to plan their careers career woman [countable] = a woman whose career is very important to her, so that she may not want to get married or have children: independent career women careers officer also careers adviser [countable] - British English - someone whose job is to give people advice about what jobs and professional training might be suitable for them [= career counselor American English]
case NOUN 1 example [countable] an example of a particular situation or of something happening case of There were 16 cases of damage to cars in the area. in the case of something The amount of fruit in fruit juices must be 6% in the case of berries and 10% in the case of other fruits. in some/many/most etc cases In many cases standards have improved. Tom's career is a case in point (=a clear example of something that you are discussing or explaining). a classic case (=typical example) of poor design 2 situation [countable usually singular] a situation that exists, especially as it affects a particular person or group in somebody's case Like the others, he produced a written explanation, but in Scott's case this was a 30-page printed booklet. Changing men's and women's traditional roles is not easy, but in our case it has been helpful. it is the case (that) It may be the case that the scheme will need more money. We tend to think of these people as untrustworthy, but that is not the case. in this case In this case, several solutions could be tried. in which case He won't want to eat it unless he's really hungry, in which case he'll eat almost anything. (just) in case a) as a way of being safe from something that might happen or might be true: Take an umbrella, in case it rains. He had his camera ready, just in case he saw something that would make a good picture. b) American English if: In case I'm late, start without me. 4 in any case = whatever happens or happened:

I don't see why I couldn't do it. In any case, I'm going to try. He's too young to come and in any case I want him to spend the time with Mom.

5 in that case = if that is the situation: 'He didn't want to talk to Sally.' 'In that case why did he agree to meet her? 6 reason/argument [countable usually singular] - a set of reasons why something should happen or be done: Let me research the facts before I put forward a case. case for A group of us met to make our case for more women in the cabinet. There is a strong case (=very good set of reasons) for getting parents more involved in the school's activities. 7 law/crime [countable] a) a question or problem that will be dealt with by a law court: The case will be heard in the High Court. She is keen to avoid a court case. The lawyers will only be paid if they win the case. He lost the case. case against Marshall has dropped the case against us. b) all the reasons that one side in a legal argument can give against the other side: The evidence does not support the prosecution's case. The court ruled that we had a case (=had enough good arguments to go to a law court). c) an event or set of events that need to be dealt with by the police in order to find out if a crime has been committed and who committed it case of a case of armed robbery8 8 box/container [countable] a) a large box or container in which things can be stored or moved: a packing case a case of wine b) a special box used as a container for holding or protecting something: a jewellery case

 Jim put his violin back in its case. c) British English a suitcase: Polly carried her cases upstairs to the bedroom.
on the case Around 50 police officers are on the case. 9 it's a case of something - spoken used before describing a situation: Everyone can learn, it's just a case of practising. It's a case of too many people and not enough jobs.

10 Disease [countable] an example of a disease or a person who has a disease case of : There are thousands of new cases of AIDS in Africa every year.

11 in case of something - used to describe what you should do in a particular situation, especially on official notices: In case of fire, break the glass. 12 grammar [uncountable and countable] technical the way in which the form of a word changes, showing its relationship to other words in a sentence: case endings 13 be on somebody's case [informal] to be criticizing someone continuously: Dad's always on my case about something or other. 14 be on the case - spoken if someone says they are on the case, they know about a problem and are going to try to solve it 15 get off my case - spoken used to tell someone to stop criticizing you or complaining about you: OK, OK, just get off my case! 16 person [countable] - someone who is being dealt with by a doctor, a social worker, the police etc GRAMMAR : (just) in case in case is followed by the simple present, the simple past, or 'should'

Write it down in case you forget (NOT in case you will forget).

I had a snack, just in case there was no time (NOT in case there would be no time) to eat later. Here's a contact number, in case there should (NOT will/would) be a problem.

Do not use in this/that case to refer to a particular aspect of something. Use in this/that respect

VERB

He supports the death penalty, and in that respect (NOT in that case) I think he is wrong. Computers can search for information much more quickly than humans, and in this respect (NOT in this case) they are more efficient.

1 be cased in something = to be completely surrounded by a material or substance: The reactor will be cased in metal. 2 case the joint informal to look around a place that you intend to steal from in order to find out information casing [countable] = an outer layer of metal, rubber etc that covers and protects something such as a wire attach case [countable] = a thin case used for carrying business documents basket case [countable] 1 [informal] someone who you think is crazy [= nut case] 2 a country with many severe economic and social problems that are likely to continue for a long time case history [countable] = a detailed record of someone's past illnesses, problems etc that a doctor or social worker studies case law [uncountable] = law a type of law that is based on decisions judges have made in the past case study [countable] = a detailed account of the development of a particular person, group, or situation that has been studied over a period of time case work [uncountable] = work that a social worker does which is concerned with the problems of a particular person or family that needs help open-and-shut case [countable usually singular] = a legal case or other matter that is easy to prove or decide because the facts are very clear packing case [countable] = a large strong wooden box in which things are packed to be sent somewhere pillowcase [countable] = a cloth cover for a pillow test case [countable] = a legal case that establishes a particular principle, that is then used as a standard which other similar cases can be judged against vanity case [countable] = a small bag used by a woman for carrying make-up etc chance

1 possibility [uncountable and countable] = how possible or likely it is that something will happen, especially something you want; chance of: what are the team's chances of success?

there's a chance (that) (=it is possible that): There's always the chance that something will go wrong. there's every chance (that) (=it is very likely) some chance little chance: There is little chance of her being found alive. no chance a good/fair chance (=something is likely) a slight/slim/outside chance (=something is unlikely): The day will be cloudy with a slight chance of rain later tonight. a fifty-fifty chance (=the possibility of something happening or not happening is equal): He gave the show a fifty-fifty chance of survival. a million to one chance/a one in a million chance (=something is extremely unlikely to happen): It was a million to one chance, but it had happened lessen/minimize/reduce the chance(s) of something (=make it less likely): he operation is performed under local anaesthetic, which lessens the chances of infection. increase/improve the chance(s) of something (=make it more likely): How can we improve our chances of career development? chances are (=it is likely): Chances are they'll be out when we call.

2 opportunity [countable] a time or situation which you can use to do something that you want to do [= opportunity] chance to do something Ralph was waiting for a chance to introduce himself. chance of our only chance of escape have/get a chance (to do something) I never get a chance to relax these days. I'm sorry, I haven't had a chance to look at it yet. I can explain everything if you'll just give me a chance. You should take the chance (=use the opportunity) to travel while you're still young. grab the chance/jump at the chance (=eagerly and quickly use an opportunity) If someone invited me over to Florida, I'd jump at the chance. Denise never misses the chance of a free meal. a second chance/another chance He was given a second chance to prove his abilities. Friday is your last chance to see the show before it closes. I'll give you one last chance and if you don't bring it on Monday, you'll be in trouble. a chance of a lifetime/a chance in a million (=a chance that you are very unlikely to have again) I couldn't pass up going to Japan; it was a chance in a million.

Quick! Now's your chance to ask her, before she leaves. Rick could do really well, given half a chance (=if he were given even a small opportunity).

3 Risk take a chance to do something that involves risks: The rope might break, but that's a chance we'll have to take. After losing $20,000 on my last business venture, I'm not taking any chances this time. take a chance on He was taking a chance on a relatively new young actor. He decided to take his chances in the boat. 4 likely to succeed somebody's chances how likely it is that someone will succeed: Ryan will be a candidate in next month's elections, but his chances are not good. somebody's chances of doing something England's chances of winning the series have all but disappeared. not fancy/not rate somebody's chances British English (=think someone is unlikely to succeed) I don't fancy their chances against Brazil. 5 luck [uncountable] - the way some things happen without being planned or caused by people [ fate] by chance : I bumped into her quite by chance in Oxford Street. leave something to chance (=to not plan something but just hope that everything will happen as intended) Dave had thought of every possibility, he was leaving nothing to chance. pure/sheer/blind chance (=not at all planned) It was pure chance that they ended up working in the same office in the same town. As chance would have it, the one time I wanted to see her, she wasn't in. 6 stand/have a chance (of something/of doing something) - if someone or something stands a chance of doing something, it is possible that they will succeed: If we did move to London, I'd stand a much better chance of getting a job. Ireland have an outside chance (=slight chance) of qualifying for the World Cup. He has a sporting chance of promotion (=a fairly good chance). I've given myself a fighting chance of getting to the finals (=a small but real chance if a great effort can be made). 7 by any chance - spoken used to ask politely whether something is true: Are you Mrs Grant, by any chance? 8 any chance of ...? - spoken used to ask whether you can have something or whether something is possible: Any chance of a cup of coffee? Any chance of you coming to the party on Saturday? 9 be in with a chance if a competitor is in with a chance, it is possible that they will win:

 I think we're in with a good chance of beating them. 10 no chance!/fat chance! - spoken used to emphasize that you are sure something could never happen: 'Maybe your brother would lend you the money?' 'Huh, fat chance!' 11 on the off chance if you do something on the off chance, you do it hoping for a particular result, although you know it is not likely: I didn't really expect her to be at home. I just called on the off chance.
12 chance would be a fine thing! [British English] - spoken used to mean that the thing you want to happen is very unlikely: 'Do you think you'll get married?' 'Chance would be a fine thing!' VERB 1 [transitive] to do something that you know involves a risk: I wasn't sure if I'd got quite enough petrol to get me home, but I decided to chance it. We decided not to chance our luck in the storm. She'd never played before, but she was ready to chance her arm (=take a risk by doing something which may fail). chance doing something : I decided to stay where I was. I couldn't chance being seen. 2 [intransitive] literary to happen in a way which is not expected and not planned chance to do something She chanced to be passing when I came out of the house. It chanced that we both went to Paris that year. chance on/upon/across somebody/something [phrasal verb] to find something or meet someone when you are not expecting to: Henry chanced upon some valuable coins in the attic.

ADJECTIVE not planned or expected [= accidental] chance meeting/encounter/event etc

A chance meeting with a journalist changed everything. A chance remark by one of his colleagues got him thinking.

.
on the off-chance if you do something on the off-chance that something will happen, you do it hoping that it will happen although it is unlikely:

I just came to see you on the off-chance that Pippa might be here.

change

VERB 1 become different/make somethin [intransitive and transitive] to become different, or to make something become different: Susan has changed a lot since I last saw her. Changing your eating habits is the best way to lose weight. The rules won't change overnight (=change quickly). The leaves on trees change colour in the autumn. change (from something) to something : He changed from being a nice lad to being rude and unhelpful. change into : The hissing sound gradually changed into a low hum. change somebody/something into something : A witch had changed him into a mouse. change something to something : Mueller changed his name to Miller when he became a U.S. citizen. changing circumstances/attitudes/conditions etc change drastically/radically/profoundly etc : Attitudes towards sexuality have radically changed. 2 start doing/using something [intransitive and transitive] to stop doing or using one thing, and start doing or using something else instead [= switch]: She changed jobs in May. change (from something) to something The company has recently changed to a more powerful computer system. The ship changed course and headed south. The company has had to change direction because of developments in technology. Piper awkwardly tried to change the subject (=talk about something else). 3 replace something [transitive] to put or use something new or different in place of something else, especially because it is old, damaged, or broken: Three boys were changing a tyre by the side of the road. When I lost my keys, we had to change all the locks. change something (from something) to something The time of the meeting has been changed from 11 a.m. to 10:30. How often do you change cars (=buy a new car and sell the old one)? 4 change your mind - to change your decision, plan, or opinion about something: Her father tried to get her to change her mind. change your mind about If you change your mind about the job, just give me a call. 5 change sides = to leave one party, group etc and join an opposing party, group etc : It's quite rare for politicians to change sides.

6 clothes a) [intransitive and transitive] to take off your clothes and put on different ones:

Francis came in while Jay was changing. Change your dress - that one looks dirty. change into/out of Sara changed into her swimsuit and ran out for a quick swim. You'd better go and get changed. b) [transitive] to put a clean nappy on a baby, or to put clean clothes on a baby or small child: I bathed him and changed his diaper. Can you change the baby? 7 bed [transitive] to take the dirty sheets off a bed and put on clean ones 8 exchange goods [transitive] British English a) to take back to a shop something that you have bought and get something different instead, especially because there is something wrong with it [= exchange American English] change something for something I bought these gloves for my daughter, but they're too large. Can I change them for a smaller size? b) to give a customer something different instead of what they have bought, especially because there is something wrong with it [= exchange American English] I'm sure the shop will change them for you 9 exchange [transitive] a) to get smaller units of money that add up to the same value as a larger unit: Can you change a 20 note? b) to get money from one country for the same value of money from another country change something into/for something I want to change my dollars into pesos, please. 10 trains/buses/aircraft [intransitive and transitive] to get off one train, bus, or aircraft and into another in order to continue your journey change at : Passengers for Liverpool should change at Crewe. change trains/buses/planes etc : I had to change planes in Denver. all change! (=used to tell passengers to get off a train because it does not go any further) 11 change hands - if property changes hands, it starts to belong to someone else: The house has changed hands three times in the last two years. 12 change places (with somebody) a) to give someone your place and take their place:

Would you mind changing places with me so I can sit next to my friend?

b) to take someone else's social position or situation in life instead of yours: places with her.

She may be rich, but I wouldn't want to change

13 gear [intransitive and transitive] to put the engine of a vehicle into a higher or lower gear in order to go faster or slower change (into/out of) gear : Change into second gear as you approach the corner. change up/down British English : Change down before you get to the hill. 14 change your tune [informal] to start expressing a different attitude and reacting in a different way, after something has happened: The question is, will the president change his tune on taxes? 15 wind [intransitive] if the wind changes, it starts to blow in a different direction 16 change your spots = to change your character completely: US business has changed its spots in recent years.

change something around [phrasal verb] to move things into different positions: When we'd changed the furniture around, the room looked bigger. change over [phrasal verb] to stop doing or using one thing and start doing or using another:

Complete all the exercises on one leg, then change over

change over to : We hope to change over to the new software by next month. NOUN 1 things becoming different [uncountable and countable] the process or result of something or someone becoming different: I find it hard to cope with change. scientists worried about climatic change change in changes in the immigration laws A change in personality may mean your teenager has a drug problem. change of a change of temperature No major changes were made to the book. change for the better/worse (=a change that makes a situation better or worse) There was a change for the better in the patient's condition. social/political/economic etc change the sweeping political changes after the fall of communism She had a change of heart (=change in attitude) and decided to stay. Family life has undergone dramatic change in recent years.

2 from one thing [countable] the fact of one thing or person being replaced by another: The car needs an oil change. change of a change of government a change of address change from something to something the gradual change from grasslands to true desert The government has made some major policy changes. 3 pleasant new situation [singular] a situation or experience that is different from what happened before, and is usually interesting or enjoyable change from The morning was cool; a welcome change from the heat of the day before. for a change How about dinner out for a change? it/that makes a change (=used to say that something is better than and different from usual) 'Ron's buying the drinks.' 'That makes a change.' change of scene/air/pace etc (=when you go to a different place or do something different): The patients benefit greatly from a change of scenery. 4 money [uncountable] a) the money that you get back when you have paid for something with more money than it costs: Here's your change, sir. make change American English (=give someone change) Andy was making change for a customer. b) money in the form of coins, not paper money in change I have about a dollar in change. Matt emptied the loose change from his pockets. A beggar asked for some spare change (=coins that you do not need). c) coins or paper money that you give in exchange for the same amount of money in a larger unit change for 1/$10 Excuse me, have you got change for a pound? make change American English (=give someone change): Can you make change for $20? 5 small change a) coins you have that do not have a high value: I only had about a pound in small change. b) used to emphasize that something is a small amount of money when it is compared to a larger amount: The program costs $20 million a year, small change by Washington standards. 6 change of clothes/underwear etc = an additional set of clothes that you have with you, for example when you are travelling 7 train/bus/aircraft [countable] a situation in which you get off one train, bus, or aircraft and get on another in order to continue your journey: Even with a change of trains, the subway is quicker than a cab at rush hour.

choice

8 get no change out of somebody [British English] - spoken to get no useful information or help from someone: I wouldn't bother asking Richard - you'll get no change out of him. ADJECTIVE 1 a changed man/woman - someone who has become very different from what they were before, as a result of a very important experience: Since she stopped drinking, she's a changed woman 2 relating to a change in someone's situation: Businesses need to adapt to changed circumstances. ... bureau de change plural bureaux de change [countable] British English = a shop where you can change foreign money [ exchange] change purse [countable] = American English a small bag in which coins are kept [= purse British English] changing room [countable] British English = a room where people change their clothes when they play sports, go swimming etc [= locker room American English] changing table [countable] = a special piece of furniture that you put a baby on when you change its nappy pocket change [uncountable] American English 1 a small or unimportant amount of money: The money is nothing - pocket change to them. 2 coins that you carry in your pocket regime change [uncountable] = a change in the government of a country that happens because another country forces that government out of power [ revolution, coup d'etat] sea change [countable] = a very big change in something sea change in : a sea change in attitudes short-change [transitive] 1 to treat someone unfairly by not giving them what they deserve or hoped for: When the band only played for 15 minutes the fans felt they had been short-changed. 2 to give back too little money to a customer who has bought something and paid more than the exact amount for it step change [singular] British English = a big and important change in an organization or in society step change in: The new law marks a step change in our programme for reforming public services. NOUN 1 [uncountable and countable] if you have a choice, you can choose between several things [ choose] choice between : Voters have a choice between three main political parties. choice of You have a choice of hotel or self-catering accommodation. You have a choice - you can stay here on your own or you can come with us. She was faced with an agonizing choice. We must encourage children to exercise choice and make their own decisions. He has to make some important choices. The booklet is supposed to help parents make informed choices (=good choices because they have the right

information) for their children. They gave us no choice in the matter. We had no choice but to destroy the animal. You have left me with no choice.

2 [singular] the range of people or things that you can choose from: It was a small shop and there wasn't much choice. choice of There is a choice of four different colours. We offer a wide choice of wines and beers. Consumers these days are spoilt for choice (=have a lot of things to choose from). British English 3 [countable] the person or thing that someone chooses choice of I don't really like her choice of jewellery. I think London was a good choice as a venue. 4 by choice - if you do something by choice, you do it because you want to do it and not because you are forced to do it: She lives alone by choice. 5 the something of your choice = the person or thing of your choice is the one that you would most like to choose: My children cannot go to the school of their choice. 6 the something of choice = the thing of choice is the one that people prefer to use: It is the drug of choice for this type of illness. ADJECTIVE 1 [only before noun] formal choice food is of very good quality: - choice steak -We select only the choicest apples for our pies. 2 a few choice words/phrases - if you use a few choice words, you say exactly what you mean in an angry way:

He told us what he thought of the idea in a few choice words.

Hobson's choice = a situation in which there is only one thing you can do, so you do not really have any choice at all

life choice [countable] - an important decision which you make about your life, for example where you choose to live, what kind of job you do, whether you get married, or have children etc multiple choice - a multiple choice examination or question shows several possible answers, and you have to choose the correct one NOUN 1 [uncountable] the process by which people exchange information or express their thoughts and feelings: Good communication is vital in a large organization. Radio was the pilot's only means of communication 2 communications a) [plural] ways of sending information, especially using radio, telephone, or computers: Modern communications are enabling more people to work from home. b) [plural] roads, railways etc that are used for travelling and sending goods communications with : Paris has good communications with many European cities. c) [uncountable] the study of using radio, television, cinema etc to communicate: a diploma in communications 3 [uncountable] the way people express themselves so that other people will understand: a week's course in improving communication skills There has been a breakdown in communication (=failure). 4 be in communication with somebody [formal] - to talk or write to someone regularly 5 [countable] formal a letter, message, or telephone call: a communication from the Ministry of Defence communication cord [countable] [British English] - a chain that a passenger can pull to stop a train in an emergency (=a sudden dangerous situation) communications satellite [countable] - a satellite that is used to send radio, television, and telephone signals around the world NOUN 1 COMPARING [uncountable] the process of comparing two or more people or things [ compare, comparative] comparison with : Comparison with his previous movies shows how Lee has developed as a director. in comparison (with/to something) : - In comparison to other recent video games, this one isn't very exciting. - He was a loud friendly man. In comparison, his brother was rather shy. by comparison (with something) : - By comparison with other European countries, car prices in the UK are very high. - After months of living in a tropical climate, Spain seemed cool by comparison. for comparison (with something) -These figures are provided for comparison with the results of previous studies. -He showed us the original text for comparison. - Her paintings invite comparison with those of the early Impressionists (=they remind you of them). stand/bear comparison (=is as good as someone or something else) : - Irving's work bears comparison with the best of the modern novelists.

communicati on

comparison

on comparison British English (=after you have compared two things to see if they are similar or different) : - On comparison, the Renault was the more reliable of the two cars. 2 judgment [countable] a statement or examination of how similar or different two people or things are comparison of : a comparison of pollution levels in Chicago and Detroit comparison between : The article makes a comparison between the two poems.

3 be like something [countable] a statement that someone or something is like someone or something else (make/draw) a comparison between somebody/something (=show the similarities between two people or things) The writer draws comparisons between the two presidents. You can't make a comparison between American and Japanese schools - they're too different. 4 there's no comparison - spoken used when you think that someone or something is much better than someone or something else there's no comparison between : There's just no comparison between canned vegetables and fresh ones. 5 grammar [uncountable] = a word used in grammar meaning the way an adverb or adjective changes its form to show whether it is comparative or superlative VERB comparison-shop [intransitive] - to go to different shops in order to compare the prices of things, so that you can buy things for the cheapest possible price 1 [countable] something you decide after considering all the information you have [ conclude]: These are the report's main conclusions. come to a conclusion/reach a conclusion (=decide something): - I soon came to the conclusion that she was lying. - It is still too early to reach a conclusion on this point draw a conclusion (from something) (=decide something because of information you have): - There are perhaps two main conclusions to be drawn from the above discussion. lead to/point to/support the conclusion that (=make you decide that): - All the evidence pointed to the conclusion that he was guilty. jump to conclusions (=decide something too quickly, without knowing all the facts): - It's important not to jump to conclusions. logical conclusion firm conclusion inescapable conclusion (=the conclusion that you must come to): The police came to the inescapable conclusion that the children had been murdered.

conclusion

2 [countable] formal the end or final part of something [= end] conclusion of : At the conclusion of the meeting, little progress had been made. 3 in conclusion - used in a piece of writing or a speech to show that you are about to finish what you are saying [= finally]: In conclusion, I would like to say how much I have enjoyed myself today. 4 [uncountable] the final arrangement of an agreement, a business deal etc conclusion of : the conclusion of a peace treaty 5 be a foregone conclusion - if something is a foregone conclusion, its result is certain, even though it has not happened yet: The outcome of the battle was a foregone conclusion. NOUN 1 situation conditions [plural] - the situation in which people live or work, especially the physical things that affect the quality of their lives: Conditions in the prison were atrocious. living/working conditions an attempt to improve living conditions for the working classes Poor working conditions lead to demoralized and unproductive employees. in appalling/overcrowded/dreadful etc conditions These children work 70 metres below ground in appalling conditions. In May, staff went on strike, demanding better pay and conditions. 2 weather conditions [plural] - the weather at a particular time, especially when you are considering how this affects people: The conditions during the first half of the match were appalling. cold/windy/icy etc conditions - In cold conditions you'll need a sleeping bag with a hood. - the worsening weather conditions 3 things affecting conditions [plural] - all the things that affect the way something happens under ... conditions Under normal conditions, people will usually do what requires least effort. Under these conditions, the fire can be rapidly controlled. Profits increased by 1.5m, despite the difficult economic conditions. The combination of rain and greasy surfaces made driving conditions treacherous. 4 state [singular, uncountable] the state that something is in, especially how good or bad its physical state is in (a) good/poor/excellent/terrible etc condition The car has been well maintained and is in excellent condition. The house was in a terrible condition. condition of : The condition of nuclear plants is a matter of great concern

condition

5 health/fitness [singular, uncountable] how healthy or fit you are: She is being treated at Walton Hospital, where her condition is described as 'satisfactory'. in (a) critical/stable/satisfactory condition : One of the victims was in a critical condition after suffering severe burns. physical/mental condition If you are uncertain about your physical condition, check with your doctor before trying these exercises. 'I'm so out of condition (=unfit),' she panted. an athlete in peak condition in no condition to do something (=too drunk, ill, or upset to be able to do something) I was in no condition to cope with a train journey. Mark can't possibly drive home in that condition (=when he is so drunk, ill, or upset). 6 agreement/contract [countable] something that you must agree to in order for something to happen, especially when this is included in a contract

lay down/impose/set conditions (=say what must be done): She laid down only one condition: that her name not be revealed. strict condition: There were strict conditions for letting us use their information. meet/satisfy/fulfil a condition (=do what has been agreed): The bank agreed to extend the loan if certain conditions were met. terms and conditions (=what a contract says must be done): A statement of your terms and conditions of employment can be found in the Personnel Handbook. on condition that/on one condition (=only if a particular thing is agreed to): He was released on bail on condition that he did not go within half a mile of his mother's address. subject to conditions (=if particular things are agreed to): The application was approved, subject to certain conditions.

7 for something [countable] - something that must exist or happen first, before something else can happen condition for/of Our goal is to create the conditions for a lasting peace. Investment is a necessary condition of economic growth. 8 illness [countable] - an illness or health problem that affects you permanently or for a very long time: People suffering from this condition should not smoke. heart/lung etc condition She has a serious heart condition. Was he being treated for any medical condition?

9 situation of group [singular] [formal] - the situation or state of a particular group of people, especially when they have problems and difficulties: the condition of the poor in our cities All my paintings are ultimately about the human condition. 10 never on no condition never: On no condition should untrained personnel use the equipment. VERB 1 [transitive] to make a person or an animal think or behave in a certain way by influencing or training them over a period of time [ conditioning]: People are conditioned by society. condition somebody to do something : Many women are conditioned from birth to be accepting rather than questioning. 2 [transitive] formal to control or decide the way in which something can happen or exist [= determine]: What I buy is conditioned by the amount I earn. 3 [intransitive and transitive]DCB to keep hair or skin healthy by putting a special liquid on it [ conditioner]: a shampoo that washes and conditions all in one .. Conditioning = the process by which people or animals are trained to behave in a particular way when particular things happen: Social conditioning makes crying more difficult for men. air conditioning [uncountable] - a system that makes the air in a room or building cooler and drier 1 [uncountable and countable] a state of disagreement or argument between people, groups, countries etc conflict over conflicts over wage settlements conflict between the conflict between tradition and innovation in conflict (with somebody) normal kids who are in conflict with their parents political/social/industrial conflict social and political conflict in the 1930s the threat of industrial conflict in the coalfields Marx points out the potential conflicts below the surface of society. His views on the literal truth of the Bible brought him into conflict with other Christian leaders. Doctors exercise considerable power and often come into conflict with politicians. a lawyer specializing in conflict resolution

conflict

2 [uncountable and countable] fighting or a war armed/military/violent conflict For years the region has been torn apart by armed conflicts. UN troops intervened to avert a threat of violent conflict. efforts to resolve the conflict 3 [uncountable and countable] a situation in which you have to choose between two or more opposite needs, influences etc: As women increasingly went out to work, the possibility of a conflict of loyalties became stronger. conflict between a conflict between the demands of one's work and one's family in conflict (with something) The principles of democracy are sometimes in conflict with political reality. 4 [uncountable and countable] a situation in which you have two opposite feelings about something: a state of inner conflict 5 [countable] American English something that you have to do at the same time that someone wants you to do something else: I've got a conflict on Friday. Can we make it Monday? 6 conflict of interest/interests a) a situation in which you cannot do your job fairly because you will be affected by the decision you make: There is a growing conflict of interest between her position as a politician and her business activities. b) a situation in which different people want different things VERB if two ideas, beliefs, opinions etc conflict, they cannot exist together or both be true conflict with : new evidence which conflicts with previous findings conflicting opinions/demands/interests etc : I had been given a great deal of conflicting advice. There are conflicting views about what caused the accident. ADJECTIVE be/feel conflicted (about something) to be confused about what choice to make, especially when the decision involves strong beliefs or opinions: Many mothers today feel conflicted about working outside the home. NOUN 1 communication [uncountable] communication with a person, organization, country etc contact with/between There is very little contact between the two tribes. Few people have daily contact with mentally disabled people.

contact

be/get/stay/keep in contact (with somebody) We stay in contact by email. We'd like to make contact with other schools in the area. The children lost contact with their families (=they no longer see them because they do not know where to find them). the ship's failure to make radio contact She put me in contact with an expert in the field (=she gave me their name, telephone number etc). face-to-face/social/personal contact (=talking to someone who is with you) There is little personal contact with customers. staff who have direct contact with the patient The town is cut off from contact with the outside world. 2 touch [uncountable] when two people or things touch each other contact with/between Children need physical contact with a caring adult. The disease spreads by sexual contact between infected animals. in contact with something For a second, his hand was in contact with mine. When water comes into contact with air, carbon dioxide is released. on contact (with something) The bomb exploded on contact (=at the moment it touched something). 3 experience [uncountable] when you meet someone or experience a particular kind of thing: Everyone who came into contact with Di felt better for knowing her. Pat's job brings her into contact with the problems people face when they retire. 4 person [countable usually plural] a person you know who may be able to help or advise you: He has a lot of contacts in the media. a worldwide network of contacts 5 contacts [plural] - a situation in which you can communicate easily with a group, country etc contacts with/between We have good contacts with the local community. He goes to great lengths to maintain these contacts. the establishment of diplomatic contacts 6 point of contact a) a place you go to or a person you meet when you ask an organization for help first/initial point of contact

 Primary health care teams are the first point of contact for users of the service. b) a way in which two different things are related: finding a point of contact between theory and practice c) the part of something where another thing touches it: The sting causes swelling at the point of contact.
7 electrical [countable] - an electrical part that completes a circuit when it touches another part 8 eyes [countable] [informal] - a contact len VERB Contact [transitive] = to write to or telephone someone: Give the names of two people who can be contacted in an emergency. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any queries. contactable adjective [not before noun] A mobile phone makes you contactable wherever you are. ADJECTIVE 1 contact number/address/details = a telephone number or address where someone can be found if necessary: If you are babysitting, make sure you have a contact number for the parents. 2 contact explosives or chemicals become active when they touch something: contact poisons NOUN 1 [uncountable and countable] a difference between people, ideas, situations, things etc that are being compared: While there are similarities in the two cultures, there are also great contrasts. contrast between : the economic and social contrasts between the poor and the rich contrast with : The marble is smooth and polished, making a strong contrast with the worn stonework around it. by contrast (to/with) : The birth rate for older women has declined, but, by contrast, births to teenage mothers have increased. in contrast (to/with) : The stock lost 60 cents a share, in contrast to last year, when it gained 21 cents. (in) stark/marked/sharp etc contrast to something The winter heatwave in California is a stark contrast to the below-freezing temperatures on the East Coast. The spirited mood on Friday was in sharp contrast to the tense atmosphere last week. The approach to learning at this school stands in marked contrast to the traditional methods used at other schools nearby. 2 [countable] something that is very different from something else: The sauce is quite sweet, so add dried thyme as a contrast.

contrast

contrast to The red stems of this bush provide a contrast to the drab brown of the winter garden. 3 [uncountable]- the degree of difference between the light and dark parts of a television picture, X-ray, photocopy etc: This button adjusts the contrast. The chemical heightens contrast between different kinds of tissue in the breast. 4 [uncountable] - the differences in colour, or between light and dark, that an artist uses in paintings or photographs to make a particular effect: The artist has used contrast marvelously in his paintings. VERB 1 [intransitive] if two things contrast, the difference between them is very easy to see and is sometimes surprising contrast with : The snow was icy and white, contrasting with the brilliant blue sky. contrast sharply/strikingly with something (=be extremely different from something) These results contrast sharply with other medical tests carried out in Australia. 2 [transitive] to compare two things, ideas, people etc to show how different they are from each other contrast something with something In another passage, Melville again contrasts the land with the sea. an essay comparing and contrasting (=showing how two things are similar and different) Verdi and Wagner and their operas ADJECTIVE Contrasting - two or more things that are contrasting are different from each other, especially in a way that is interesting or attractive: a blue shirt with a contrasting collar NOUN

control

1 make somebody/[uncountable] the ability or power to make someone or something do what you want or make something happen in the way you want
The disease robs you of muscle control. have control (over/of something): Artists like to have some control over where their works are hung in a gallery. take/gain control (of/over something): Students are encouraged to take control of their own learning, rather than just depending on the teacher. fight/struggle for control (of/over something) lose control (of/over something): Excessive drinking can make you lose control of your own life be under control: Do you need any help?' 'No. It's under control, thanks.' keep something under control (=keep something happening in the way you want): Dogs are allowed on the trails if they are kept under control. get/go out of control (=stop happening in the way you want): The car spun out of control and hit a tree.

beyond/outside somebody's control (=impossible for someone to control): Flight delays do occur, for reasons that are outside our control. full/total control:

2 power [uncountable] the power to make the decisions about how a country, place, company etc is organized or what it does: The press was freed from political control. control of : Jordan asked for editorial control of the project. in control (of something) Anti-government forces are still in control of the area. By the end of the year, the rebels had control over the northern territories. The Johnson family has effective control of the company, owning almost 60% of the shares. China gained control of the island in 1683. His son is being trained to take control of the family business. The Democrats lost control of Congress in the last election. under the control of somebody The college was under the control of a group of trustees. The whole of this area came under Soviet control after World War II. The Conservatives are hoping to regain control of the city council. 3 way of limiting something [uncountable and countable] an action, method, or law that limits the amount or growth of something, especially something that is dangerous: pest control control of the control of inflation control on The authorities imposed strict controls on the movement of cattle. an agreement on arms control (=control of the amount of weapons a country has) under control Firefighters had the blaze under control by 9:44 p.m. Shea used diet and exercise to bring her weight under control. The Federal Reserve Bank raised interest rates to keep inflation under control. rent/price/wage etc controls Rent controls ensured that no one paid too much for housing. tight/rigid controls (=strict controls) the introduction of tighter controls on immigration Police used fire hoses and dogs for crowd control. 4 ability to stay calm [uncountable] the ability to remain calm even when you feel very angry, upset, or excited: There were sudden tears in his eyes and he paused, fighting for control.

Davidson lost control of himself and started yelling. Small children can't be expected to have the same self-control (=ability to control their emotions and behaviour) as an adult. under control Her voice is under control, but she is almost shaking with anger. in control I felt calm and in control. 5 machine/vehicle [countable]T the thing that you press or turn to make a machine, vehicle, television etc work: the TV remote control the volume control on the radio a car with manual controls at the controls (=controlling a vehicle or aircraft) Belton, at the controls, made a perfect landing. 6 people who organize [singular, uncountable]TTATTS the people who direct an activity or who check that something is done correctly, the place where this is done, or the process of doing it: air-traffic control Please stop at passport control. computers used for stock control 7 scientific test [countable] a) H a person, group etc against which you compare another person or group that is very similar, in order to see if a particular quality is caused by something or happens by chance control group/population/sample etc A control group of non-smoking women were compared to four groups of women smokers. b) H a thing that you already know the result for that is used in a scientific test, in order to show that your method is working correctly 8 computer also control key [singular]TD a particular button on a computer that allows you to do certain operations: Press control and F2 to exit. VERB 1 power to have the power to make the decisions about how a country, place, company etc is organized or what it does: The Democrats continued to control the Senate until last year. a huge company controlling half the world's coffee trade 2 limit to limit the amount or growth of something, especially something that is dangerous:

a chemical used to control weeds an economic plan to control inflation Development in areas of outstanding natural beauty is strictly controlled. Strict measures were taken to control the spread of foot and mouth disease.

3make somebody/something to make someone or something do what you want, or make something happen in the way that you want: Police had to be called in to control the crowds. a skilled rider controlling a spirited horse controlling parent 4 emotion - if you control your emotions, your voice, your expression etc, you succeed in behaving calmly and sensibly, even though you feel angry, upset, or excited: Sarah took a deep breath, trying to control her anger. He controlled the urge to laugh. control yourself Newman controlled himself with an effort. 5 machine/process to make a machine, process, or system work in a particular way: a radio-controlled toy car A thermostat controls the temperature in the building. control how/what/which etc The valves in the heart control how quickly the blood is pumped around the body. 6 check something to make sure that something is done correctly [= check, monitor]: quality of its products. The company strictly controls the

ADJECTIVE controlled 1 deliberately done in a particular way, or made to have particular qualities: a test held under controlled conditions a controlled explosion 2 limited by a law or rule: Access to the site is closely controlled. a police search for controlled drugs (=a drug that is illegal to have without permission from a doctor) 3 calm and not showing emotion, even if you feel angry, afraid etc: a controlled, authoritative voice

control freak [countable] [informal] - someone who is too concerned about controlling all the details in every situation they are involved in controlling interest [countable usually singular] - if you have a controlling interest in a company, you own enough shares to be able to make decisions about what happens to the company controlling interest in The firm paid over $10 million for a controlling interest in five hotels. course NOUN 1 of course a) used to show that what you are saying is expected or already known and so not surprising: You can pay by cheque, assuming of course you have a valid cheque card. Of course there are exceptions to every rule. b) also course informal spoken used to say yes or to give permission politely: 'Can I have a word with you?' 'Of course.' 'Can you give me a lift?' 'Course, no problem.' c) also course spoken used to emphasize that what you are saying is true or correct: Of course he'll come! well/but of course Well of course I love you. 2 of course not also course not spoken informal used to say very strongly that something is not true or correct: He asked his father if it was true. ' Of course not,' Jack said. 'You don't mind if I call her?' 'No, course not.' 3 education [countable] a) a series of lessons in a particular subject [= class American English] do a course British English take a course : Andy's doing a one-year journalism course. course on/in a course on architecture I'm taking a course in graphic design. 73 candidates enrolled on the course. For details, contact your course tutor. b) British English a period of study in a particular subject, especially at university [= program American English] take/follow a course Students following the Honours course are expected to study Islamic History. degree/postgraduate etc course entry qualifications for degree-level courses

taught course (=one which has formal lectures, rather than one in which a student studies alone) ! course is never followed by 'of': a course in English (NOT of English) 4 time [singular] a period of time or process during which something happens during/in/throughout/over the course of something During the course of our conversation, it emerged that Bob had been in prison. Over the course of the next few years, the steel industry was reorganized. in the course of doing something In the course of researching customer needs, we discovered how few families have adequate life insurance. 5 development [singular] the usual or natural way that something changes, develops, or is done course of forces that shape the course of evolution Meeting Sally changed the whole course of his life. in the normal/natural/ordinary course of events In the normal course of events, a son would inherit from his father. take/run its course (=develop in the usual way and reach a natural end) Relax and let nature take its course. It seems the boom in World Music has run its course. Gorbachev changed the course of Soviet history. 6 plans [singular, uncountable] the general plans someone has to achieve something or the general way something is happening: They will go to any lengths to get the White House to change course. He will steer a middle course between pacifism and revolution. As long as the economy stays on course, the future looks rosy. 7 actions [countable usually singular] an action or series of actions that you could take in order to deal with a particular situation: I agreed that this was the only sensible course of action. take/decide on a course The judge took the only course of action open to him. 8 direction [countable usually singular, uncountable]TTWTTA the planned direction taken by a boat or plane to reach a place: The plane changed course to avoid the storm. on/off course (=going in the right or wrong direction) The ship was blown off course. The aircraft was almost 10 miles off course. She tightened the mainsail while holding the course (=travelling in the same direction as planned). 9 on course - likely to achieve something because you have already had some success

on course for : If he wins today, he's on course for the Grand Slam. on course to do something : We're back on course to qualify for the championship. 10 meal [countable] - one of the separate parts of a meal three-course/five-course etc meal The ticket includes entry and a four-course meal. first/second/main etc course We had fish for the main course. 11 sport [countable]DS an area of land or water where races are held, or an area of land designed for playing golf: a particularly difficult course; an 18-hole course 12 medical treatment [countable] especially British English an amount of medicine or medical treatment that you have regularly for a specific period of time: course of injections/drugs/treatment etc 13 in (the) course of time - after some or enough time has passed [= eventually]: She'll get used to school in the course of time. 14 river [countable]SG the direction a river moves in: The course of the water was shown by a line of trees. 15 WALL [countable]TBC a layer of bricks, stone etc in a wall: a damp-proof course VERB 1 [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] literary if a liquid or electricity courses somewhere, it flows there quickly: Tears coursed down his cheeks. 2 [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] literary if a feeling courses through you, you feel it suddenly and strongly: His smile sent waves of excitement coursing through her. 3 [intransitive and transitive] to chase rabbits with dogs as a sport ADVERB 1 used to show that other people probably already know what you are saying is true, or expect to hear it: Well, she won, of course. You should of course keep copies of all your correspondence. Of course there will be some difficult times ahead. 2 spoken also course informal used to emphasize that you are saying 'yes' when someone asks your permission to do something:

'Can I ring you back in a minute?' 'Yes, of course.' 'Is it OK if I have another cup of coffee?' 'Course, help yourself.'

3 spoken also course informal used to emphasize that what you are saying to someone is true or correct: 'Do you really believe her?' 'Of course I do!' 'I hope this idea of yours works.' 'Course it'll work.' 4 spoken used to show that you accept or agree with what someone has just said: 'Don't get angry. She's only thirteen.' 'Of course.' 'The correct answer is 83.' 'Oh, yes, of course.' 5 of course not/course not - spoken used to emphasize that you are saying 'no' to something: 'Have you been reading my e-mail?' 'Of course not!' 'Do you mind if I bring a friend?' 'No, of course not.' .. access course [countable] [British English] - an educational course for adults which prepares them for study at a university or college assault course [countable] [British English] - an area of land with special equipment to climb, jump over, run through etc that is used for developing physical strength, especially by soldiers [= obstacle course American English] conversion course [countable] British English - a course for students who have some knowledge of a subject, but who need slightly different or more knowledge in order to do something: A qualified pilot would still need a conversion course to fly microlight aircraft. correspondence course [countable] - a course of lessons in which the student works at home and sends completed work to their teacher by post: I'm taking a correspondence course in business studies crash course [countable] - a course in which you learn a lot about a particular subject in a very short period of time crash course in : a crash course in Spanish damp course [countable] [British English] a layer of material which is put into the bottom of a wall to prevent water rising through it foundation course [countable] British English = a general course of study that introduces students to a subject, and is taught in the first year at some universities in Britain main course [countable] = the main part of a meal: -What are you going to have for your main course? - starter, main course and dessert obstacle course [countable] 1 a line of objects which people have to jump over, climb through etc in a race 2 a series of difficulties which must be dealt with to achieve a particular aim 3 an area of land with special equipment that soldiers must run through, climb over etc, as part of their training [= assault course British English] refresher course also refresher [countable] = a training course, usually a short one, that teaches you about new developments in a particular subject or skill, especially one that you need for your job

danger

sandwich course [countable] British English = a course of study at a British college or university that includes periods spent working in industry or business survey course [countable] [American English] = a university course that gives an introduction to a subject for people who have not studied it before NOUN 1 [uncountable] the possibility that someone or something will be harmed, destroyed, or killed: Danger! No boats beyond this point. in danger The refugees believe that their lives are in danger. I don't want to put you in danger. danger of The danger of a fire in the home increases during the holidays. be in danger of (doing) something The bridge was in danger of collapsing. grave/great/real/serious etc danger The condor was in grave danger of extinction. danger from The public was not aware of the danger from nuclear tests in Nevada. out of danger The patient is now out of danger. Pedestrians on this road face constant danger from cars. 2 [uncountable and countable] the possibility that something bad will happen be in danger of (doing) something : The party is in danger of being defeated in the next election. danger that : There is a danger that museums will attempt to entertain rather than educate. the danger of (doing) something : to guard against the danger of becoming isolated 3 [countable] something or someone that may harm or kill you: the dangers that abound in the region danger of : the dangers of drug use be a danger to somebody/something : The wreck is a danger to other ships. 4 there's no danger of something - used to say that something will not happen: There's no danger of Darren ever getting up early. 5 be on the danger list [British English] to be so ill that you may die .. danger money [British English]; danger pay [American English] [uncountable] = additional money that you are paid for doing

deadline

decision

dangerous work = a date or time by which you have to do or complete something deadline for : The deadline for applications is May 27th. deadline of : It has to be in before the deadline of July 1st. meet/miss a deadline (=have or not have something finished on time) : working under pressure to meet a deadline set/impose a deadline : They've set a deadline of Nov 5. tight/strict deadline (=a deadline that is difficult) 1 [countable] a choice or judgment that you make after a period of discussion or thought make a decision: Do you ever wonder if you made the right decision? take a decision (=make an important decision, especially after considering carefully): No final decision has been taken, but it seems likely that the two companies could merge in the near future. reach/come to a decision: We finally came to a firm decision on the matter. a big/major decision: I need to think about it. It's a big decision. a difficult/hard/tough etc decision: All managers face tough decisions at one time or another decision to do something: She refused to discuss her decision to quit the group the right/wrong decision: reverse/overturn a decision (=officially change an earlier decision): The Supreme Court has overturned the lower court's decision somebody's decision is final (=it cannot be changed): The judges' decision is final a snap decision (=one made extremely quickly): She made a snap decision, which was to have fatal consequences. 2 [uncountable] the quality someone has that makes them able to make choices or judgments quickly and confidently [ indecision]: the ability to act with speed and decision 3 [uncountable] the act of deciding something: The Court has the ultimate power of decision. . decision-maker [countable usually plural] - a person in a large organization who is responsible for making important decisions: the corporation's key decision-makers decision-making [uncountable] - the process of making important decisions: attempts to involve workers in decision-making Miranda decision, the - a 1966 decision by the US supreme court that said it was necessary for police, when arresting people, to tell them about their legal rights 1 [countable] written abbreviation deg.TM a unit for measuring temperature. It can be shown as a symbol after a number. For example, 70 means 70 degrees: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. 20 degrees Celsius/70 degrees Fahrenheit/1 degree Centigrade etc: The temperature dropped to five degrees Centigrade. 2 [countable] written abbreviation deg. a unit for measuring the size of an angle. It can be shown as a symbol after a number. For

degree

example, 18 means 18 degrees: Then the cylinder is rotated 180 degrees. 3 [uncountable and countable] the level or amount of something degree of 1960s Britain was characterised by a greater degree of freedom than before. Newspapers vary in the degree to which they emphasize propaganda rather than information. 4 to a degree - also to some degree/to a certain degree partly: To a degree, it is possible to educate oneself. We're all willing to support him to some degree. 5 [countable] a course of study at a university or college, or the qualification that is given to you when you have successfully completed the course degree in a degree in Economics Applicants must have a degree in Engineering. an Honours degree 6 by degrees very slowly [= gradually]: By degrees, Huy forced himself into a sitting position. first degree 1 [countable usually singular] British English used to talk about a university degree such as a BA or a BSc, obtained by people who do not already have a degree 2 murder in the first degree [American English] = first-degree murder first-degree adjective - [only before noun] 1 first-degree burn- a burn that is not very serious 2 first-degree murder [American English] - murder of the most serious type, in which someone deliberately kills someone else [ manslaughter] 1 [uncountable and countable] a situation in which people express different opinions about something and sometimes argue [ agreement]: We've had a few disagreements, but we're still good friends. disagreement about/over/as to/on : disagreements about who will be allowed to vote disagreement among/between : There were disagreements among doctors about the best way to treat the disease. disagreement with: Connor's disagreements with school administrators sharp/fundamental/profound etc disagreement (=serious disagreement) be in disagreement (=disagree): Scientists are in disagreement about the significance of the data. 2 [uncountable] differences between two statements, reports, numbers etc that ought to be similar [ agreement]

disagreemen t

dispute

disagreement between: There is disagreement between these two estimates. NOUN 1 a serious argument or disagreement be involved in a dispute: The firm is involved in a legal dispute with a rival company. get into a dispute (=become involved): He got into a dispute over a taxi fare. settle/resolve a dispute bitter dispute: Every effort was made to settle the dispute, but without success. long-running dispute (=one that lasts a long time): A long-running pay dispute is disrupting rail services. political/legal dispute: pay dispute: A long-running pay dispute is disrupting rail services. industrial dispute [British English] labor dispute [American English] (=between workers and employers): The coal industry was plagued by industrial disputes. territorial dispute (=about land) domestic dispute (=between a couple who live together): The police don't usually like to intervene in domestic disputes. be in dispute with somebody (=be involved in a dispute): The miners were in dispute with their employers over pay. a dispute arises (=it starts): A dispute arose over who was to be the next king.
2 be beyond dispute - if something is beyond dispute, everyone agrees that it is true or that it really happened: It is beyond dispute that advances in medicine have enabled people to live longer. 3 be open to dispute - if something is open to dispute, it is not completely certain and not everyone agrees about it: His interpretation of the poem is open to dispute. 4 be in dispute - if something is in dispute, people are arguing about it: The facts of the case are still in dispute. VERB 1 [transitive] to say that something such as a fact or idea is not correct or true: The main facts of the book have never been disputed. dispute that : Few would dispute that travel broadens the mind. 2 [intransitive and transitive] formal to argue or disagree with someone dispute (something) with somebody Hazlitt, though much younger, was soon disputing with Wordsworth on equal terms. What happened next is hotly disputed. 3 [transitive] to try to get control of something or win something: Soviet forces disputed every inch of ground.

duty

NOUN

1 something right [= obligation]

you

[uncountable and countable] something that you have to do because it is morally or legally

do your duty: I promise I will do my duty. it is somebody's duty to do something: We feel it is our duty to help her. have a duty to do something: Local authorities have a duty to keep the streets clean. have a duty to somebody/owe somebody a duty: You have a duty to your husband and to your children. sense of duty: She has a strong sense of moral duty. moral duty: legal duty fail in your duty (=fail to do something that you should do for someone): The unions have failed in their duty to female workers. be duty-bound to do something formal (=have a duty to do something): In the traditional Hindu family, the son is duty-bound to look after his mother.

2 work [countable usually plural, uncountable] something you have to do as part of your job duties Martin's duties included cleaning the cars. She works for her father doing part-time secretarial duties. He will soon be fit enough to carry out his duties (=do his job). He can only do light duties . When Juliet reported for duty (=arrived and said she was ready to start work) she was sent to check on a new patient. A teacher may be fired for neglect of duty (=failing to do their job properly). He did three tours of duty in Vietnam (=three periods working in a foreign country as a soldier, government officer etc). 3 be on/off duty to be working or not working at a particular time, especially when you are doing a job which people take turns to do, so that someone is always doing it: He's on night duty . Mary goes on duty (=starts working) tonight at half past ten. What time do you go off duty (=finish work)? 4 tax [uncountable and countable] a tax you pay on something you buy duty on : the duty on cigarettes customs duty (=tax paid on goods coming into the country)

effect

5 do duty as something to be used as something [= serve as something]: The living room also does duty as a home office. ........... double duty -do double duty= to do more than one job or be useful for more than one thing at the same time do double duty as: The sofa does double duty as a guest bedduty-free 1. (adjective) duty-free goods can be brought into a country without paying tax on them: duty-free cigarettes, the duty-free shop _2. (noun) alcohol, cigarettes etc that you can bring into a country without having to pay tax on them heavy-duty 1 heavy-duty materials are strong and thick and not easily damaged: heavy-duty canvas 2 heavy-duty machines or equipment are designed to be used for very hard work 3 informal especially American English very complicated, serious, or extreme: Today, she was going to do some heavy-duty cleaning. night duty [uncountable] = work that is done during the night on night duty: She is on night duty at the hospital. off-duty- if someone such as a policeman, nurse, or soldier is off-duty, they are not working: an off-duty guard; I shall be offduty on Thursday. stamp duty [uncountable] a tax that must be paid in Britain on particular legal documents that have to be officially checked, especially when buying a house tour of duty plural tours of duty [countable] - a period of time when you are working in a particular place or job, especially abroad while you are in the army etc NOUN

1 change/result [uncountable and countable] the way in which an event, action, or person changes someone or something
have an effect (on somebody/something): My parents' divorce had a big effect on me. big/major/profound/significant/dramatic effect: the harmful effects of modern farming practices bad/harmful/negative/damaging/detrimental/adverse effect beneficial/positive effect long-term effect: the long-term effects of the drug. feel the effect (of something): I could feel the effects of the thin mountain air. knock-on-effect British English (=an effect caused by the thing that happened before): A system failure has a knock-on effect throughout the whole hotel. cumulative effect (=the effect of many things happening one after another: the cumulative effect of human activities on the global environment the desired effect (=the effect you wanted): A much lower dose of the painkiller can still produce the desired effect. cause and effect (=one thing directly causing the other): In mental illness, there is a complex relationship

between cause and effect. 2 put/bring something into effect - to make a plan or idea happen: It won't be easy to put the changes into effect. 3 take effect - to start to produce results: The morphine was starting to take effect and the pain eased. 4 law/rule a) take effect/come into effect - if a law, rule, or system takes effect or comes into effect, it officially starts b) be in effect - if a law, rule, or system is in effect, it is being used now 5 with immediate effect/with effect from -formal - starting to happen immediately, or from a particular date: Hoskins is appointed manager, with immediate effect. 6 in effect used when you are describing what you see as the real facts of a situation: In effect, we'll be earning less than we were last year. 7 to good/great/no etc effect used to show how successful an action is: We tried to wake him, but to no effect. 8 to this/that/the effect - used when you are giving the general meaning of something, rather than the exact words: Jim told me to go away, or words to that effect. The letter said something to the effect that she was no longer needed. 9 idea/feeling[countable usually singular] an idea or feeling that an artist, speaker, book etc tries to make you think of or to feel effect of : Turner's paintings give an effect of light. 10 for effect - if someone does something for effect, they do it in order to make people notice: She paused for effect, then carried on speaking. 11 personal possessions effects [plural] formal - the things that someone owns [= belongings]: Don's few personal effects were in a suitcase under the bed. 12 film [countable usually plural] - an unusual or impressive sound or image that is artificially produced for a film, play, or radio programme VERB [transitive] [formal] - to make something happen: Many parents lack confidence in their ability to effect change in their children's behaviour. ! Do not confuse with the verb affect (=to have an effect on something). .

effort

after-effect [British English] , after effect [American English] [countable usually plural] - a bad effect that continues for a long time after the thing that caused it the after-effects (of something) : the after-effects of his illness side effect [countable] 1 an effect that a drug has on your body in addition to curing pain or illness harmful/serious/adverse etc side effect : a natural remedy with no harmful side effect side effect of :the side effects of the medication 2 an unexpected or unplanned result of a situation or event: These policy changes could have beneficial side effects for the whole economy. trickle-down effect [singular] a belief that additional wealth gained by the richest people in society will have a good economic effect on the lives of everyone because the rich people will put the extra money into businesses, investments etc 1 physical/mental energy [uncountable] the physical or mental energy that is needed to do something: Lou lifted the box easily, without using much effort. make the effort (to do something) : He made the effort to say something pleasant. it takes effort (to do something) It takes a lot of time and effort to get an exhibition ready. An automatic car takes all the effort out of driving (=it makes driving very easy). Frank put a lot of effort into the party. Visit the cathedral when you're there. It's well worth the effort (=it is definitely worth doing). 2 attempt [uncountable and countable] an attempt to do something, especially when this involves a lot of hard work or determination make an effort (to do something) I know you don't like her, but please make an effort to be polite. Jack has made a concerted effort (=tried hard over a long time) to improve his behaviour. We make every effort to satisfy clients' wishes. They made no effort to include us in the negotiations. somebody's effort(s) to do something Tom's determined efforts to stop smoking haven't been very successful. Church leaders are prepared to meet the terrorists in an effort to (=in order to try to) find peace. effort at : Further efforts at negotiation have broken down. through somebody's efforts (=because of their efforts) The money was raised largely through the efforts of parents. The meal was a joint effort (=it was done by two people together). despite somebody's efforts Despite all our efforts we lost the game 1 With a supreme effort of will Isabel forced back the tears. 3 be an effort to be difficult or painful to do: I was so weak that even standing up was an effort.

4 particular situation [countable] work that people do to achieve something in a particular situation: the fundraising effort the international relief effort Everyone did what they could to support the war effort. 5 good/bad/poor etc effort - something that has been done well, badly etc: Not a bad effort for a beginner! war effort [singular] - things done by all the people in a country to help when that country is at war 1 [countable] formalSE a spoken or written test of knowledge, especially an important one [= exam]: The examination results will be announced in September. He's already taken the entrance examination. 2 [uncountable and countable] the process of looking at something carefully in order to see what it is like examination of - a detailed examination of population statistics under examination The proposals are still under examination. The issues need further examination. on examination : On closer examination the vases were seen to be cracked. 3 [countable] a set of medical tests: All patients had a complete physical examination. A post-mortem examination (=an examination on a dead body) showed that he died from head injuries. 4 [uncountable and countable] lawSCL the process of asking questions to get specific information, especially in a court of law self-examination [uncountable] 1 careful thought about whether your actions and your reasons for them are right or wrong 2 the practice of checking parts of your body for early signs of some illnesses 1 to ... extent - used to say how true something is or how great an effect or change is to a certain extent/to some extent/to an extent (=partly) We all to some extent remember the good times and forget the bad. I do agree with him to an extent. to a great/large extent : Its success will depend to a large extent on local attitudes. to a lesser/greater extent (=less or more) It will affect farmers in Spain and to a lesser extent in France. They examined the extent to which (=how much) age affected language-learning ability. To what extent (=how much) did she influence his decision? to such an extent that/to the extent that (=so much that) : Violence increased to the extent that residents were afraid to leave their homes. 2 [uncountable] how large, important, or serious something is, especially something such as a problem or injury extent of

examination

extent

fact

Considering the extent of his injuries, he's lucky to be alive. It's too early to assess the full extent of the damage. 3 [uncountable] the length or size of something: They opened out the nets to their full extent. in extent : The region is over 10,000 square kilometres in extent. 1 true information [countable] a piece of information that is known to be true: Newspapers have a duty to provide readers with the facts. fact about : The book is full of interesting facts about the World Cup. fact of : First of all, we need to establish the facts of the case. it's a fact/that's a fact (=used to emphasize that something is definitely true or that something definitely happened) : The divorce rate is twice as high as in the 1950s - that's a fact. is that a fact? (=used to reply to a statement that you find surprising, interesting, or difficult to believe) : 'She used to be a professional singer.' 'Is that a fact?' it's a (well-known/little-known etc) fact that It's a fact that most deaths from lung cancer are caused by smoking. I know for a fact that (=used to say that something is definitely true) she earns more than I do. get your facts right/straight (=make sure you are right about something) Mr Craig should get his facts straight before making false allegations. Your ability to write and argue is of little use if you get your facts wrong (=are wrong about something). stick to the facts (=only say what you know is true) hard facts (=information that is definitely true and can be proven) : We need hard facts not just interesting theories. the bare facts (=the basic details of a situation or story) 2 the fact (that) - used when talking about a situation and saying that it is true: Our decision to build the museum in Hartlepool was influenced by the fact that there were no national museums in the North East. He refused to help me, despite the fact that I asked him several times. given the fact (that)/in view of the fact (that) (=used when saying that a particular fact influences your judgement about something or someone): Given the fact that this is their first game, I think they did pretty well. due to the fact (that)/owing to the fact (that) (=because) The school's poor exam record is largely due to the fact that it is chronically underfunded. The fact we didn't win when we were so close is very disappointing. 3 in (actual) fact a) used when you are adding something, especially something surprising, to emphasize what you have just said: I know the mayor really well. In fact, I had dinner with her last week. b) used to emphasize that the truth about a situation is the opposite of what has been mentioned: They told me it would be cheap but in fact it cost me nearly $500. Her teachers said she was a slow learner, whereas in actual fact she was partially deaf.

4 the fact (of the matter) is - spoken used when you are telling someone what is actually true in a particular situation, especially when this may be difficult to accept, or different from what people believe: The fact of the matter is that he's just not up to the job. 5 the fact remains - used to emphasize that what you are saying about a situation is true and people must realize this: The fact remains that the number of homeless people is rising daily. 6 real events/not a story [uncountable] situations, events etc that really happened and have not been invented [ fiction]: Much of the novel is based on fact. It's a news reporter's job to separate fact from fiction. 7facts and figures [plural] the basic details, numbers etc concerning a particular situation or subject: Here are a few facts and figures about the country. 8 the facts speak for themselves - used to say that the things that have happened or the things someone has done show clearly that something is true 9 after the fact - after something has happened or been done, especially after a mistake has been made . act of life [plural] facts of life [countable] 1 an unpleasant situation that exists and that must be accepted: Mass unemployment seems to be a fact of life nowadays. Persuading others to accept the hard financial facts of life is not a very popular job. 2 the facts of life - the details about sex and how babies are born: - Mum told me the facts of life when I was twelve. fact sheet [countable]- a piece of paper giving all the most important information about something fact-finding trip/visit/mission etc - an official trip, visit etc during which you try to find out facts and information about something for your organization, government etc matter-of-fact - showing no emotion when you are talking about something exciting, frightening, upsetting etc matter-of-fact about : Jan was surprisingly matter-of-fact about her divorce. matter-of-fact voice/tone : Use a matter-of-fact tone when disciplining your children. 1lack of success [uncountable and countable] a lack of success in achieving or doing something [ success]: Winston is not someone who accepts failure easily. failure to do something : the conference's failure to reach an agreement end/result in failure : Harry's plans ended in failure. 2 unsuccessful person/t[countable] someone or something that is not successful [ success]: I always felt a bit of a failure at school. a total/complete failure : The advertising campaign was a total failure.

failure

3 failure to do something an act of not doing something which should be done or which people expect you to do: Failure to produce proof of identity could result in prosecution. 4 business [uncountable and countable]BBBF a situation in which a business has to close because of a lack of money: Business failures in Scotland rose 10% last year. 5 machine/body part[uncountable and countable]THB an occasion when a machine or part of your body stops working properly: The cause of the crash was engine failure. heart/kidney/liver etc failure : He died from kidney failure. failure in : a failure in the computer system 6 crops [uncountable and countable] an occasion when crops do not grow or produce food, for example because of bad weather: a series of crop failures .. heart failure [uncountable] - a serious medical condition in which someone's heart stops working properly, often resulting in death [= heart attack] power failure [countable] - a period of time when there is no electricity supply NOUN 1 military a) [countable usually plural] a group of people who have been trained to do military work for a government or other organization government/military/defence etc forces The riots were suppressed by government forces. He strengthened US forces in the Gulf. a plan to disarm the rebel forces (=those fighting against the government) b) the forces [ British English] the army, navy, and air force in the forces : Both her sons are in the forces. c) nuclear/conventional forces nuclear weapons or ordinary weapons: short-range nuclear forces 2 military action [uncountable] military action used as a way of achieving your aims: Peace cannot be imposed by force. The UN will allow the use of force against aircraft violating the zone. 3 violence [uncountable] violent physical action used to get what you want: The police used force to overpower the demonstrators. by force : In the end he had to be thrown out of the house by force. They kicked the door down using sheer brute force. 4 physical power[uncountable] the amount of physical power with which something moves or hits another thing [ strength] force of : The force of the explosion blew out all the windows.

force

with great/considerable/increasing etc force : He raised his hand and struck her with terrifying force. 5 natural power [uncountable and countable] a natural power or event: the force of gravity; powerful natural forces such as earthquakes, floods, and drought; the forces of nature 6 organized group[countable usually singular] a group of people who have been trained and organized to do a particular job: the company's sales force; the quality of the teaching force 7 strong influence [countable] something or someone who is powerful and has a lot of influence on the way things happen the driving force (behind something/somebody) (=the person or thing that makes something happen) Betty Coward was the driving force behind the project. a force for change/peace/democracy etc (=someone or something that makes change, peace etc more likely to happen) Healthy competition is a force for innovation. He's a quick and decisive player - a force to be reckoned with (=a person, team, company etc that influences what happens). The fall in prices was due to forces beyond their control. 8powerful effect [uncountable] the powerful effect that something has on you: Even after 30 years, the play has lost none of its force. the force of his personality 9 join/combine forces (with somebody/something) - to work together so that you can deal with a problem, be more powerful etc join forces to do something : Local schools have joined forces with each other to share facilities. 10 in force a) if a law, rule etc is in force, it already exists: The trade embargo has been in force for a year. b) in a large group, especially in order to protest about something [= in large numbers]: Villagers turned out in force to protest about the new road. 11 come into force/bring something into force - if a new law, rule, change etc comes or is brought into force, it starts to exist: Parking restrictions in the town centre came into force last month. 12 by/through/out of force of habit because you have always done a particular thing and it is difficult to change: I get up at 6 o'clock every day from force of habit. 13 by/through force of circumstance(s) [British English] if something happens by force of circumstance, events outside your control make it happen 14 wind

a) force 8/9/10 etc - a unit for measuring the strength of the wind b) gale/hurricane force wind - extremely strong wind that does a lot of damage 15 police the force - a word meaning the police force, used especially by police officers 16 the forces of good/evil etc literary people or things that increase the amount of good or bad in the world: the battle against the forces of evil VERB 1 make somebody do something - to make someone do something they do not want to do [ persuade] force somebody/yourself to do something Government troops have forced the rebels to surrender. Due to the high cost of borrowing, many companies have been forced to close. I had to force myself to get up this morning. force somebody/something into (doing) something women who are forced into arranged marriages Bad health forced him into taking early retirement. 2 make somebody/something move [always + adverb/preposition] to make someone or something move in a particular direction or into a different position, especially through or using great strength [= push]: Westerly gales forced the ship off course. Firemen entering the building were forced back by flames. She tried to keep the door shut but the man forced it open. 3 force your way through/into etc something - also force your way in/out/past etc to push very hard in order to get somewhere: The doctor forced his way through the crowd. Demonstrators forced their way past. 4 make something happen to make something happen or change, especially more quickly than planned or expected: the unfortunate events that forced his resignation We need to force the pace on alternative energy policies. force prices/interest rates etc down/up : The effect will be to increase unemployment and force down wages. 5 force a door/lock/window to open a door etc using physical strength, often causing damage: I forced the lock on the cupboard to see what was inside. 6 force the issue to do something that makes it necessary for someone to make decisions or take action, instead of waiting to

see what happens: Polly decided to force the issue by demanding an explanation. 7 force somebody's hand - to make someone do something unwillingly or earlier than they had intended: They're reluctant to sell the house yet but the right offer could force their hand. 8 force a smile/laugh etc - to make yourself smile, laugh etc even though you feel upset or annoyed force something back [phrasal verb] to stop yourself from showing that you are upset or frightened, especially with difficulty: Janet forced back her tears. force something down [phrasal verb] 1 to make yourself eat or drink something, although you do not want it: I forced down a piece of stale bread. 2 to make a plane land by threatening to attack it: The hijacked plane was forced down by military jets. force something on/upon somebody [phrasal verb] to make someone do or accept something even though they do not want to:

It's no good trying to force a diet on someone. people who try to force their own views on you

force something out of somebody [phrasal verb] - to make someone tell you something by asking them many times, threatening them etc: I wasn't going to tell Matt but he forced it out of me. ADJECTIVE forced 1 a forced smile, laugh etc is not natural or sincere: 'Oh, hello,' said Eileen, with forced brightness. 2 [only before noun] done suddenly and quickly because the situation makes it necessary, not because it was planned or wanted: The plane had to make a forced landing in a field. the forced repatriation of thousands of refugees .. market forces [plural] =the way that the behaviour of buyers and sellers affects the levels of prices and wages, without any influence from the government form

NOUN
1 type[countable] a particular type of something that exists in many different varieties

form of a severe form of cancer The bicycle is an environment-friendly form of transport. the art forms of the twentieth century 2way something is/appears[countable] the way something is or appears to be: We oppose racism in all its forms. in the form of something People are bombarded with information in the form of TV advertising. Vitamin C can be taken in capsule or tablet form. A typical training programme takes the form of a series of workshops. 3 shape[countable] a shape form of : the shadowy forms of the divers swimming below the boat in the form of something The main staircase was in the form of a big 'S'. The female form is a thing of beauty. 4 document [countable] an official document with spaces where you write information, especially about yourself: Application forms are available from the college. Just complete the entry form (=write the answers to the questions on a form) and return it. fill in/out a form (=write the answers to the questions on a form) : Fill in the form and send it back with your cheque. 5 art/literature [uncountable]A the structure of a work of art or piece of writing, rather than the ideas it expresses, events it describes etc: the distinction between form and content 6 performance [uncountable] how well a sports person, team, musician etc is performing, or has performed recently: I have been greatly encouraged by the team's recent form. on present/current/past etc form : On current form he's one of the top three players in the country. in good/fine/great form He's been in good form all this season. He had no qualms about dropping players he thought were off form (=not performing well). 7school [countable] British English a class in a school first/second/sixth etc form : examinations taken in the fourth form 8 grammar[countable] a way of writing or saying a word that shows its number, tense etc. For example, 'was' is a past form of the verb 'to be'. 9 criminal record [uncountable] British English informal if someone has form, they are known to the police because they have

committed crimes in the past 10 bad form - old-fashioned behaviour that is considered to be socially unacceptable [= bad manners]: It used to be considered bad form to talk about money. 11 form of words - a way of expressing something official [= wording]: The precise form of words has been agreed by the 12 heads of government. 12 be in good/fine/great etc form - also be on good/fine/great etc form British English to be full of confidence and energy, so that you do something well or talk in an interesting or amusing way: Michelle was in great form at last week's conference. 13 take form a) to begin to exist or develop: The womb represents the very first place in which life takes form. b) to start to become a particular shape: As the men worked, I watched the ship's hull take form. VERB 1establish [transitive] to establish an organization, committee, government etc: The winning party will form the government. CARE was formed in 1946 and helps the poor in 38 countries. 2 be part of something [linking verb] to be the thing, or one of the things, that is part of something else, often having a particular use: Love and trust should form the basis of a marriage. The project forms part of a larger project investigating the history of the cinema. The river formed a natural boundary between the two countries. 3start to exist [intransitive,transitive ] to start to exist, or make something start to exist, especially as the result of a natural process: The rocks were formed more than 4000 million years ago. By midnight ice was already forming on the roads. Sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxide combine to form acid rain. 4 make/produce[transitive] to make something by combining two or more parts: In English the past tense of a verb is usually formed by adding 'ed'. 5 shape/line[intransitive and transitive] to come together in a particular shape or line, or to make something have a particular shape [= make]: Film-goers began to form a line outside the cinema.

Cut off the corners of the square to form a diamond.

6relationship [transitive] to establish and develop a relationship with someone: She seemed incapable of forming any relationships. On returning to Boston, she formed a close friendship with her aunt. 7 form an opinion/impression/idea - to use available information to develop or reach an opinion or idea: She formed the opinion that one of the pupils was bullying the other. 8influence [transitive] to have a strong influence on how someone's character develops and the type of person they become [= mould]: Events in early childhood often help to form our personalities in later life. 1 something that you hope to achieve in the future [= aim]: His ultimate goal was to set up his own business. achieve/reach a goal : They achieved their goal of increasing sales by five percent. set (yourself/somebody) a goal (=decide what you or someone else should try to achieve) long-term goal/short-term goal (=that you hope to achieve after a long or short time) 2 the area between two posts where the ball must go in order to score in games such as football or hockey be in goal/keep goal British English (=be the goalkeeper) impact 3 the action of making the ball go into a goal, or the score gained by doing this: I scored the first goal. NOUN 1 [countable] the effect or influence that an event, situation etc has on someone or something impact on/upon : We need to assess the impact on climate change. major/significant/profound etc impact: Higher mortgage rates have already had a major impact on spending. impact of : an international meeting to consider the environmental impacts of global warming ! Do not say 'cause an impact' on something. Say have an impact on something. 2 [uncountable and countable] the force of one object hitting another: The force of the impact knocked the breath out of her. 3 on impact - at the moment when one thing hits another: The plane's wing was damaged on impact. VERB impact [intransitive and transitive] especially American English - to have an important or noticeable effect on someone or something impact on/upon : The Food Safety Act will progressively impact on the way food businesses operate. ADJECTIVE impacted - a tooth that is impacted is growing under another tooth so that it cannot develop properly 1 [uncountable and countable] the opinion or feeling you have about someone or something because of the way they seem give/create/convey an impression: Arriving late won't create a very favourable impression.

goal

impression

leave somebody with an impression: We were left with the impression that the contract was ours if we wanted it. leave an impression (on somebody) have/get the impression (that): I get the distinct impression that we're not wanted here make an impression (on somebody) (=make someone admire or remember you): It was their first meeting and Richard was determined to make an impression. first/initial impression (=the impression you get when you see someone or something for the first time): When it comes to job interviews, first impressions are important. good/favourable impression bad impression: Canceling the conference will make a very bad impression. false/wrong/misleading impression: The final score gives a false impression of the game. lasting/indelible impression: How you greet a customer can leave a lasting impression. overall/general impression: The overall impression was one of chaos. the distinct impression (that) 2 be under the impression (that) - to believe that something is true when it is not: I'm sorry, I was under the impression that you were the manager. 3 [countable] when someone copies the speech or behaviour of a famous person in order to make people laugh [= imitation]: Jean does a great impression of Madonna. 4 [countable] a picture or drawing of what someone or something might look like, or what something will look like in the future impression of : an artist's impression of the new building 5 [countable] a mark left by pressing something into a soft surface: Some of the fallen trees had left a clear impression in the hardened mud. influence 6 [countable] all the copies of a book printed at one time NOUN 1 [uncountable and countable] the power to affect the way someone or something develops, behaves, or thinks without using direct force or orders: There is no doubt that Bohr's influence was immense. influence on/over : the unions' influence over local politics under somebody's influence/under the influence of somebody/something : They had come under the influence of a strange religious sect. have/exert/exercise influence The Council had influence over many government decisions. They were accused of exerting undue influence (=too much influence) on voters. 2 [countable] someone or something that has an influence on other people or things

bad/good/positive etc influence (on somebody) Gayle's mother said I was a bad influence on her daughter. For centuries the country remained untouched by outside influences. 3 under the influence (of alcohol/drink/drugs etc) -drunk or feeling the effects of a drug VERB -to affect the way someone or something develops, behaves, thinks etc without directly forcing or ordering them: Marx was strongly influenced by the historian Niebuhr. influence a decision/outcome/choice etc: Several factors are likely to influence this decision. influence somebody to do something : What influenced you to take up nursing? 1 [countable] a sudden clear understanding of something or part of something, especially a complicated situation or idea insight into The article gives us a real insight into the causes of the present economic crisis. The research provides new insights into the way we process language. 2 [uncountable] the ability to understand and realize what people or situations are really like: a woman of great insight 1 [singular, uncountable] if you have an interest in something or someone, you want to know or learn more about them have an interest in something: I'd recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in jazz. show interest (in something): Ben has shown an interest in learning French. express (an) interest (in something) (=say that you are interested in something or want to buy it): My mother had never expressed any interest in the garden. take an interest (in something) (=be interested in something): Babies soon begin to take an interest in the world around them. have no interest in something: John appeared to have no interest in girls. lose interest (in something) (=stop being interested): I watched the first few episodes, but soon lost interest. arouse/generate/attract interest (=make people interested): The last round of bidding aroused considerable interest. pique somebody's interest American English (=make someone interested) great/keen interest: I read your article with great interest. abiding interest (=an interest you have had for a long time) lack of interest: Our survey reveals a disturbing lack of interest in teacher training. with interest: I read your article with great interest. 2 [countable usually plural] an activity that you enjoy doing or a subject that you enjoy studying: His interests include walking and golf. As a biologist, my main interest has been human genetics.

insight

interest

Her outside interests (=interests that are not part of her work) were numerous.

3 [uncountable] a quality or feature of something that attracts your attention or makes you want to know more about it: A Persian rug will add colour and interest to your hallway. be of (no) interest (to somebody) (=be interesting or not interesting to someone) It's a book that will be of interest to a wide range of readers. What you do in your private life is of no interest to me. art galleries, museums and other places of interest topics of general interest (=that everyone wants to know about) 4 [uncountable] a) the extra money that you must pay back when you borrow money interest on The interest on the loan is 16 % per year. How much are the monthly interest payments? b) money paid to you by a bank or financial institution when you keep money in an account there: an account that pays higher interest The more you save, the more interest you'll earn. 5 [countable usually plural, uncountable] the things that bring advantages to someone or something protect/look after/safeguard somebody's interests : The regulations were introduced in order to safeguard the interests of local fishing communities. be in somebody's (best) interest(s) (to do something) (=be the best thing for someone) : The court decided that it was in the girl's best interests to remain with her grandparents. have somebody's (best) interests at heart (=care about someone and want to do what is best for them) He has your best interests at heart, you know. We've got to balance economic interests and environmental interests. 6 be in the national/public interest - to be good or necessary for the safety or success of a country and its people: I believe it is in the public interest that these facts are made known. 7 in the interest(s) of justice/safety/efficiency etc - in order to make a situation or system fair, safe etc: The race was postponed in the interests of safety. 8 (just) out of interest/as a matter of interest spoken used to say that you are asking a question only because you are interested and not because you need to know: Just out of interest, how much did they offer you? 9 [countable] if you have an interest in a particular company or industry, you own shares in it: The company is believed to be keen to sell its extensive brewing interests.

 His business interests are spread throughout Europe. controlling interest (=enough shares to control what decisions are taken) : In 1986 GM acquired a controlling interest in the sports car maker Lotus.
10 [countable usually plural] a group of people in the same business who share aims or ideas: Farming interests now dominate many of the National Park committees. The majority of Brazil's huge commercial interests support the measure. the need to reduce the influence of special interests (=groups who are concerned about particular subjects) 11 have no interest in doing something to not want to do something: I have no interest in continuing this conversation. 12 declare an interest (in something) = to officially state that you are connected with something or someone, and so cannot be completely fair and independent when making a decision involving them 13 human interest/love interest = the part of a story, film, or event which is interesting because it shows things about people's lives or romantic relationships: As a trainee reporter, she spent most of her time on human interest stories. VERB 1 to make someone want to pay attention to something and find out more about it: Here's an article which might interest you. What interests me is all the history of these places. It may interest you to know that a number of scholarships are available. 2 interest yourself in something formal- to give something a lot of attention because you want to find out more about it: He had always interested himself in foreign affairs. 3 to try to persuade someone to buy, do, or eat something interest somebody in something : The salesman tried to interest me in the higher-priced model. Could I interest you in a drink/dessert etc? (=used as a polite way of offering someone a drink etc) ADJECTIVE interested 1 giving a lot of attention to something because you want to find out more about it or because you enjoy it [ uninterested, bored] interested in I've always been interested in music. All she's interested in is clothes. I wasn't sure if he was really interested or if he was just being polite. interested to hear/know/see etc : I'd be very interested to hear your opinion.

2 if you are interested in doing or having something, you want to do it or have it: I've got a spare ticket for the opera if you're interested. interested in (doing) something Sheila's interested in starting her own business. Would you be interested in a second-hand car? 3interested party/group - a person or group that is directly or personally concerned with a situation and is likely to be affected by its results [ disinterested]: All interested parties are invited to attend the meeting. interesting = if something is interesting, you give it your attention because it seems unusual or exciting or provides information that you did not know about [ uninteresting, boring]: That's an interesting question; a really interesting TV programme find something interesting I found his talk very interesting. Did you meet any interesting people? it is interesting to see/know etc It will be interesting to see what happens when he gets a bit older. It's interesting that no one remembers seeing the car. ! Do not confuse interested, which describes a feeling, and interesting, which describes something that makes you feel interested: Are you interested in ballet? | an interesting talk on photography ....................................................................................................................................................... compound interest [uncountable] = interest that is calculated on both the sum of money lent or borrowed and on the unpaid interest already earned or charged [ simple interest] controlling interest [countable usually singular] - if you have a controlling interest in a company, you own enough shares to be able to make decisions about what happens to the company controlling interest in : The firm paid over $10 million for a controlling interest in five hotels. interest group [countable] - a group of people who join together to try to influence the government in order to protect their own particular rights, advantages etc interest rate [countable] = the percentage amount charged by a bank etc when you borrow money or paid to you by a bank when you keep money in an account there interest-free = an interest-free loan has no interest charged on it: interest-free credit self-interest [uncountable] - when you only care about what is best for you, and do not care about what is best for other people: His offer was motivated solely by self-interest. special interest group [countable] = a group of people who share the same political or business aims, and who try to influence the government to help them with those aims special interests [plural] - special interest groups in general: Special interests donate millions of dollars to political campaigns.

issue

NOUN 1 subject/problem [countable] a subject or problem that is often discussed or argued about, especially a social or political matter that affects the interests of a lot of people

the issue of something raise an issue (=say that an issue should be discussed): We should raise the issue of discrimination with the council address an issue (=discuss or deal with an issue): Dillon addressed the issue of child abuse in his speech. resolve an issue: How the issue is resolved is crucial avoid/dodge/duck/evade an issue (=avoid discussing an issue): When asked about the bill, the senator tried to duck the issue. confuse/cloud an issue (=make an issue more difficult by talking about things not related to it): They're clouding the issue with uninformed judgements. important/key/major/big issue: The key issue is whether workers should be classified as 'employees'. thorny/vexed issue (=difficult issue): the thorny issue of creating a single European currency complex issue sensitive issue political/social/economic/environmental issues: Economic issues should get more attention. something is not the issue spoken (=used to say that something is not the important part of what you are discussing): Unemployment is not the issue - the real problem is the decline in public morality.

2magazine [countable] a magazine or newspaper printed for a particular day, week, or month issue of : the January issue of Newsweek the current/latest issue : Have you seen the latest issue? 3 take issue with somebody/something - to disagree or argue with someone about something: It is difficult to take issue with his analysis. take issue with somebody over something : I must take issue with you over what you said yesterday. 4 make an issue (out) of something = to argue about something, especially in a way that annoys other people because they do not think it is important: I was upset by Eleanor's remarks, but didn't make an issue of it. 5 have issues (with somebody/something) [informal] a) to have problems dealing with something because of something that happened in the past: There's a self-help group for people who have issues with money. b) if you have issues with someone or something, you do not agree with or approve of them: I have a few issues with Marc. 6 at issue - [formal] the problem or subject at issue is the most important part of what you are discussing or considering:

At issue here is the extent to which exam results reflect a student's ability.

7 act of giving something [singular] the act of officially giving people something to use: the issue of identity cards to all nonresidents 8 set of things for sale [countable] a new set of something such as shares or stamps, made available for people to buy: We launched the share issue on March 1. a new issue of bonds 9 die without issue [old use] to die without having any children VERB 1 to officially make a statement, give an order, warning etc: Silva issued a statement denying all knowledge of the affair. a warning issued by the Surgeon General 2 if an organization or someone in an official position issues something such as documents or equipment, they give these things to people who need them issue a passport/permit/visa etc : The US State department issues millions of passports each year. issue somebody with something : All the workers were issued with protective clothing. issue something to somebody : The policy document will be issued to all employees. 3 to officially produce something such as new stamps, coins, or shares and make them available to buy issue forth [phrasal verb] - if something issues forth, it comes out of a place or thing issue forth from : A low grunt issued forth from his throat. issue from something [phrasal verb] - if something issues from a place or thing, it comes out of it: Smoke issued from the factory chimneys. ....................................................................................................................................................... rights issue [countable] -British English technical - an offer of company shares at a cheaper price than usual, to people who own some already side issue [countable] a subject or problem that is not as important as the main one, and may take people's attention away from the main subject: The tax proposal is really a side issue with us. standard-issue - a standard-issue thing is the common or usual type of that thing

job

- included as an ordinary part of military equipment 1work [countable] the regular paid work that you do for an employer

apply for a job: I've applied for a job at the university. offer somebody a job: Well, Miss Taylor, we'd like to offer you the job. get/find a job (as something): Eventually, Mary got a job as a waitress land a job informal (=get a job) take a job (=accept a job that you are offered): I was so desperate that I took the first job that came along. hold down a job (=keep a job when this is difficult): He had never been able to hold down a job. lose a job: At least there's no danger of you losing your job. leave/quit a job: Oh Rick, you didn't quit your job did you? be out of a job (=not have a job): If the project fails, we're all out of a job. temporary job: It's a temporary job, but I'm hoping it will be made permanent. permanent job part-time job: the pet shop where he had a part-time job full-time job steady job (=a job that is likely to continue): I haven't had a steady job since last March. job satisfaction (=the enjoyment you get from your job): Levels of job satisfaction vary between departments. job security (=how permanent your job is likely to be): I didn't see the point of moving my family to London without any job security.

2 duty [singular] something that you are responsible for doing: Raising kids can be a difficult job. It's my job to make sure that the work is finished on time. the job of somebody/something : The job of the jury is to assess the credibility of the witness. the job of doing something : I was given the job of making sure that everyone had enough to drink. All too often councils fall down on the job (=not do what they should) of keeping the streets clean. 3something you must do [countable] a particular thing you have to do, considered as work [= task]: My parents were always finding little jobs for me to do. Filleting fish can be quite a fiddly job. Tiling the bathroom is going to be a big job. Sam does odd jobs (=small jobs in the house or garden) for friends and neighbours. the job of doing something :The job of choosing the right computer for you is made easy by this magazine. We need to get on with the job of finding someone to replace him. do a good/great/marvellous etc job : Whoever did the plastering did a brilliant job.

make a good/bad etc job of (doing) something : She hates doing the cleaning, but she always makes a good job of it. 4 on the job a) while you are doing a particular job: Most clerical training is done on the job. b) doing a particular job: We've got some of our best people on the job. c) British English spoken informal having sex 5 I'm only/just doing my job - spoken used to say that it is not your fault if you have to do something in your work that other people do not like 6 it's more than my job's worth [British English spoken] used to tell someone that you cannot do what they want because you would lose your job if you did - often used humorously 7 do the job - spoken to have the effect or produce the result that you want: A little more glue should do the job. 8 have a job doing something/have a job to do something [British English spoken] to have difficulty doing something: I think we might have a job parking in town. 9 do a job on somebody/something - informal especially American English to have a damaging effect on someone or something: The sun does quite a job on people's skin. 10 computer [countable]TD an action done by a computer: a print job 11 crime [countable] informalSCC a crime in which money is stolen from a bank, company etc: a bank job; Police believe it was an inside job (=done by someone who works for the company where the crime happens). 12 a nose/boob job [informal] - an operation to improve the appearance of your nose or breasts: She looks completely different in this photo - she must have had a nose job. 13 just the job [British English spoken] exactly what is needed for a particular purpose or situation: This bag is just the job for carrying your sports gear. 14 type of thing [singular] spoken used to say that something is of a particular type: Jack's got a new car - a red two-seater job. 15 jobs for the boys [British English] when someone in an important position gives work to their friends, especially when this gives the friends an unfair advantage: The council chief was suspended over allegations of jobs for the boys. 16 job of work [British English] something that you have to do even if you do not enjoy it 17 job lot [British English] a mixed group of things that are sold together: a job lot of furniture

knowledge

day job [countable] your normal job which you earn most of your money from doing, especially as opposed to another interest: I'd love to be a professional writer, but I'm not giving up my day job just yet. demolition job [countable] 1 an act of criticizing someone severely or telling other people things about them which may be unfair or untrue, in order to harm them or to cause people to have a bad opinion of them: He accused opposition leaders of doing a demolition job on the President. 2 an event, especially a sports event, in which one person or team defeats the other one very easily demolition job against Currie led the team with 55 points in the demolition job against Ireland. desk job [countable] = a job that involves working mostly at a desk in an office hatchet job [countable] -British English informal- a newspaper article, television programme etc that criticizes someone severely and unfairly hatchet job on : They were afraid I was going to do a hatchet job on them. job centre [countable] = a place run by the British government where jobs are advertised and training courses are provided for people who are looking for work job description [countable] = an official list of the work and responsibilities that you have in your job odd jobs [plural] = small jobs of different types: I've got a few odd jobs to do this weekend. odd-job man [countable] British English = a man who does various jobs in people's houses or gardens paint job [singular] informal if a car has a paint job, it is painted again: old cars that are given a quick paint job before being sold put-up job [countable usually singular] informal an event that seems real but has actually been arranged in order to deceive someone: It's been suggested the kidnapping was a put-up job snow job [singular] -American English informal = an act of making someone believe something that is not true 1 the information, skills, and understanding that you have gained through learning or experience have knowledge: He did not have much knowledge of American history. acquire/gain knowledge (=learn something) technical/scientific knowledge: salesmen with good technical knowledge of what they are selling in-depth knowledge: An in-depth knowledge of accounting is not necessary as training will be given. detailed knowledge: specialist knowledge (=knowledge about a particular subject): The equipment is complex and requires specialist knowledge to be repaired. first-hand/personal knowledge (=knowledge from experiencing something for yourself): The year studying in the US gives students personal knowledge of American culture. background knowledge (=knowledge you need to understand or do something): someone with a background knowledge of engineering general knowledge (=knowledge about a lot of different subjects): a general knowledge quiz a thirst for knowledge (=when you want very much to learn things) ! Do not say that you 'learn knowledge' or 'get knowledge'. Say that you learn a lot or learn a great deal: You can learn a lot through travel.

2 when you know about a particular situation or event, or the information you have about it: Evans denied all knowledge of the robbery. I had no knowledge of this whatsoever until The Times contacted me. (secure/safe) in the knowledge that : Kay smiled, secure in the knowledge that she was right. be common/public knowledge (=be known about by everyone) : Their affair is public knowledge. to (the best of) somebody's knowledge (=used to say that someone may not know the true facts) To the best of my knowledge the new project will be starting in June. To our knowledge, this is the first time it's happened. 'Is it true that she's leaving the company?' ' Not to my knowledge (=I do not think so).' without somebody's knowledge He was annoyed to find the contract had been signed without his knowledge. She acted with the full knowledge of her boss (=her boss knew about her action). ..

self-knowledge [uncountable] = an understanding of your own character and behaviour

lack NOUN lack [singular, uncountable] = when there is not enough of something, or none of it [= shortage] new parents suffering from lack of sleep Too many teachers are treated with a lack of respect.

VERB 1 [transitive] to not have something that you need, or not have enough of it: Alex's real problem is that he lacks confidence. ! Do not use the verb lack before 'in' or 'of': We lack ideas (NOT We lack in/of ideas). However, you can use the phrases be lacking in and a lack: We are lacking in ideas OR We have a lack of ideas. 2 not lack for something [formal] = to have a lot of something: He does not lack for critics ADJECTIVE. lacking [not before noun]

a complete/total lack of something: comments based on a total lack of information an apparent lack of something: Does their apparent lack of progress mean they are not doing their job properly? for lack of something (=because something is not present or does not exist): tours that are cancelled for lack of bookings a distinct/marked lack of something: no lack of something (=plenty of something): There was no lack of willing helpers. a relative/comparative lack of something: health problems linked to poor diet and a relative lack of exercise no lack of something (=plenty of something)

level

1 not having enough of something or any of it lacking in He was lacking in confidence. She seems to be entirely lacking in intelligence. The new designs have all been found lacking in some important way. 2 if something that you need or want is lacking, it does not exist: Financial backing for the project is still lacking. These qualities are sadly lacking today. NOUN] 1 amount the amount or degree of something, compared to another amount or degree level of : Increased supplies are needed to meet the level of demand. high/low level - Dolphins show a high level of intelligence. - Inflation dropped to its lowest level in 30 years. - At the moment, public interest is at a high level. price/income etc levels - the high salary levels of top executives - Special attention was paid to minimising noise levels. -Try to reduce your stress levels. -the downward trend in annual pollution levels 2 standard a particular standard of skill or ability, for example in education or sport at ... level - Students at this level may have problems with basic grammar. -What level do you think you're at? beginner/advanced/national etc level -Few athletes can compete at international level. - an advanced-level coursebook 3 height the height of something in relation to the ground or to another object at ... level : Your arms should be at the same level as your desk. eye/knee/shoulder etc level (=the same height as your eyes etc) : Skirts this year are just above knee level. water/oil etc level (=the height of the water etc from the ground or the bottom of a container) : Check the water level in the car radiator. 4 floor/ground = a floor or area of ground that is at a particular height, especially when you can go up or down to other floors or areas on ... level - Didn't we park the car on Level 2? The town is built on different levels.

The medical center is on one level (=so that you do not have to go up or down).

5 rank of job a particular position in a system that has different ranks of importance at ... level : Training is offered at each level in the department. at board/management/senior etc level : Further talks at ministerial level were held. 6 way of understanding = a way of considering or understanding something on ... level : The story can be understood on many different levels. on a personal/practical/superficial etc level : I agree with you, but only on a theoretical level. 7 at local/state/national etc level happening within a small area or the whole area of a state, country etc: These changes are taking place at regional level. 8 a level playing field = a situation in which different people, companies, countries, etc can all compete fairly because no one has special advantages: Small businesses want to compete on a level playing field with larger ones. 9 be on the level [informal] to be honest and legal: This is all on the level, right? 10 descend/sink to somebody's level to behave as badly as someone: If you hit him back, you'll only be descending to his level. 11 tool = a tool used for checking that a surface is flat [= spirit-level] ADJECTIVE 1 flat and not sloping in any direction: -The floors in the old house were not completely level. -a level surface suitable for wheelchairs 2 a) two things that are level are at the same height as each other level with -Your eyes should be level with the top of the screen. -The curtains aren't quite level. b) [British English] two sports teams, competitors etc that are level have the same number of points level with -Before the weekend, Madrid was level with Barcelona. -They finished level, with ten points each. c) having the same value or position as something or someone else level with -Borrowing rates rose to over 8%, roughly level with those in America. - He cycled along beside her, keeping level. 3 do your level best (to do something) = to try as hard as possible to do something: I'll do my level best to help you. 4 a level voice/look/gaze = a steady voice, look etc, that shows you are calm or determined

5 level teaspoon/cup etc (of something) = an amount of a substance that fills a spoon, cup etc to the top but no more, used as a measure in cooking: Add one level teaspoon of salt. VERB level -past tense and past participle- levelled,-present participle- levelling British English, -past tense and past participle -leveled,present participle- leveling [American English] 1 [transitive] also level something off/out to make something flat and smooth: Workers leveled the wet concrete with a piece of wood. Cover with a layer of sand and level it off. 2 [transitive] to knock down or destroy a building or area completely: Bombs levelled a large part of the town. 3 [intransitive and transitive] [British English] to make the score in a game or competition equal: He slipped the ball into the net to level the score at 1/1. United went ahead but the visitors levelled in the 73rd minute. 4 level criticism/charges/accusations etc at/against somebody to aim criticism etc at a particular person, country etc, especially publicly - the criticism levelled at the United States - Serious allegations were levelled against the minister. level something at somebody/something [phrasal verb] = to aim something such as a weapon at someone or something: Slowly he levelled his gun at the tiger. level off/out [phrasal verb] 1 to stop going up or down and continue at the same height: - After climbing steeply, the path levelled off.

- The plane levelled out at 30,000 feet. 2 to stop rising or falling and become steady: Inflation has begun to level off. 3 level something off/out = to make something flat and smooth level with somebody [phrasal verb] to speak honestly to someone, after hiding some unpleasant facts from them:

She decided to level with him and tell him how she felt.

leveller [British English] ; leveler [American English] [countable] = something, especially death or illness, that makes people of all classes and ranks seem equal

entry level product/model/computer etc = a product etc that is the most basic or simple of its kind, making it suitable for people who do not have much money to spend or who do not have experience using the product eye level [uncountable] = a height equal to the level of your eyes at/above/below eye level - Your screen should be at eye level. -an eye-level grill ground level [singular] = the same level as the surface of the earth, rather than above it or below it: The flats are set around a courtyard with shops at ground level. high-level [only before noun] 1 in a powerful position or job, or involving people who are in powerful positions or jobs: high-level executives high-level meetings/talks/negotiations etc a high-level conference on arms control 2 at a high degree or strength: The virus has shown high-level resistance to penicillin 3 involving very technical or complicated ideas 4 a high-level computer language is similar to human language rather than machine language level-headed= calm and sensible in making judgments or decisions be level-pegging [British English] - if competitors in a race, election etc are level-pegging, they are equal and it is difficult to know who will win low-level 1 close to the ground: low-level bombing attacks on military targets 2 relating to people who are not in powerful positions or jobs [ high-level]: routine, low-level, clerical tasks 3 at a low degree or strength [ high-level]: a low-level tension headache 4 a low-level computer language is used to give instructions to a computer and is similar to the language that the computer operates in [ high-level] sea level [uncountable] the average height of the sea, used as a standard for measuring other heights and depths, such as the height of a mountain above/below sea level 1000m above sea level, changes in sea level spirit level [countable] especially British English= a tool used for testing whether a surface is level (poloboc) split-level=a split-level house, room, or building has floors at different heights in different parts top-level [only before noun] involving the most powerful people in a country, organization etc: top-level meetings between EU leaders 1 on paper/on the ground [countable] a long thin mark on a piece of paper, the ground, or another surface: Draw a straight line across the top of the page. Sign your name on the dotted line (=line made up of a series of dots). The edges of the pitch are marked by white lines. The goalkeeper just managed to stop the ball going over the line. He raced towards the finishing line.

line

2 between two areas [countable] an imaginary line on the surface of the earth, for example showing where one country or area of land stops and another begins county/state line [American English] : He was born in a small town just across the state line. line of latitude/longitude : They were still travelling along the same line of longitude. 3 of people/things [countable] a) a row of people or things next to each other line of There was a line of fir trees on either side of the road. The four men were standing in a line on the other side of the table. A couple of the posts were out of line (=not in a straight row). b) especially American English a row of people, cars etc that are waiting one behind the other [= queue] [British English I looked in despair at the long line in front of the ticket office. line of I joined the line of vehicles waiting to get into the car park. The kids were standing in line waiting for their teacher. The woman next in line began to mutter to herself. He tried to cut in line (=go in front of other people who are waiting). 4 direction [countable] the direction or imaginary line along which something travels between two places: Light travels in a straight line. A boat came into my line of vision (=direction I was looking in). Line of fire/attack/movement etc (=the direction in which someone shoots, attacks, moves etc) I was directly in the animal's line of attack. They knew they needed to block their enemy's supply lines (=direction used for carrying supplies of food etc). 5 on your face [countable] a line on the skin of someone's face [ wrinkle]: She frowned, and deep lines appeared between her eyebrows. There were fine lines around her eyes. No one can avoid lines and wrinkles as they get older. 6 phone [countable]TCT a telephone wire or connection: I'm sorry, the line is busy (=someone is already using it). There seems to be a fault on the line. There was a click, then the line went dead (=suddenly stopped working completely). Henry is on the line (=on the phone) from New York.

I got on the line to (=phoned) the hospital as soon as I heard about the accident. I wished he would just get off the line. I'm sorry, it's a bad line and I can't hear you. Hold the line (=wait on the phone), please, and I'll put you through to our sales department. Do you have a separate line for your modem?

7 for trains [countable]TTT a track that a train travels along: We were delayed because of a problem further along the line. When you get to central London, take the Victoria Line to Finsbury Park. railway line; railroad line [American English] : The trail follows a disused railroad line along the edge of the valley. 8 between two types of thing[countable usually singular] the point at which one type of thing can be considered to be something else or at which it becomes a particular thing line between There is a fine line between superstition and religion. The dividing line between luxuries and necessities is constantly changing. Sometimes he found it hard to draw the line between work and pleasure. Her remarks did not quite cross the line into rudeness. Large numbers of families are living on or near the poverty line (=the point at which people are considered to be very poor). 9 shape/edge [countable usually plural] the outer shape of something long or tall: She was wearing a loose dress which softened the lines of her body. a modern building with clean, elegant lines. 10 words [countable] a) a line of written words, for example in a poem or a document: He quoted a few lines from Shakespeare. Scroll down to line 29. b) a remark: He liked to introduce himself with a witty opening line. This was one of his favourite chat-up lines (=remark for impressing someone you want to attract). c) [usually plural] words that someone has to learn and say as part of a play or performance: Paul often messed up his lines. It always took me ages to learn my lines. 11 opinion/attitude [singular] an opinion or attitude, especially one that someone states publicly and that influences their

actions line on I can't agree with the government's line on immigration. Journalists are often too willing to accept the official line (=the opinion that a government states officially). He found it hard to accept the party line (=the official opinion of a political party) on every issue. take a tough/firm/hard line on something : The school takes a very tough line on drugs. 12 way of doing something [countable] a particular way of doing something or of thinking about something line of argument/reasoning/inquiry etc It seemed useless to pursue this line of questioning. Opposition parties soon realized they would have to try a different line of attack. The police are following several different lines of enquiry. We were both thinking along the same lines (=in the same way). In South Africa, the press developed along very different lines (=in a very different way). More groups will now be set up on these lines (=this way). The company's rapid success means it's definitely on the right lines (=doing something the right way). 13 series of events [countable usually singular] a series of events that follow each other line of : This is the latest in a long line of political scandals. 14 in a war [countable]PM the edge of an area that is controlled by an army, where soldiers stay and try to prevent their enemy from moving forward: They finally broke through the German line. young soldiers who were sent to the front line to fight One regiment was trapped behind enemy lines. Reinforcements were available just behind the lines. 15 in a company/organization [countable] a series of levels of authority within an organization: Decisions are taken by senior officers and fed down through the line of command to the ordinary soldiers. There should be more direct discussion between managers and workers lower down the line. 16 of rope/wire [countable]DHC a piece of strong string, rope, or wire used for a particular purpose: She hung the clothes out on the washing line (=line for hanging wet clothes on to dry). The fishing line (=line for catching fish) snapped and the fish got away. 17 product [countable]BBT a type of goods for sale in a shop: The company has just launched a new line of small, lowpriced computers.

18 along these/those lines - also along the lines of something similar to something else: We usually start with general questions along the lines of, 'How do you feel?' They're trying to organize a trip to the beach or something along those lines. 19 along religious/ethnic/party etc lines if people divide along religious, party etc lines they divide according to the religion, political party, or other group they belong to: The committee was split along party lines. The community remains divided along religious lines. 20 on line a) using a computer to get information or to communicate with people: You can book tickets on line. Most of our sales staff now work on line. b) working properly as planned: a new nuclear reactor which should be on line by 2005 If there is a power failure, the emergency generators should come on line within 15 minutes. 21 drop somebody a line informal to write a short letter or email to someone: Drop me a line and let me know how you're getting on. 22 don't give me that line -spoken used to say that you do not believe someone's excuse: I know for a fact you weren't sick yesterday, so don't give me that line. 23 fall into line/bring somebody into line [informal] = to start to do what someone else wants you to do, or to make someone do this: Now that France and Germany have signed up, other countries will soon fall into line. The few party rebels were soon brought into line. 24 in line with something - if something changes in line with something else, it changes in the same way and at the same rate as it: Pensions will be increased in line with inflation. 25 bring something into line with something to change a system so that it works according to a particular set of rules, laws etc: UK immigration procedures will have to be changed to bring them into line with the latest European ruling. 26 be out of line [informal] a) to say or do something that is not acceptable in a particular situation: You just keep quiet! You're way out of line. b) to not obey someone, or to do something that you should not do get/step put of line : Anybody who steps out of line will be in deep trouble.

27 be in line for something/be in line to do something to be very likely to get or be given something: I should be in line for promotion soon. first/second/next etc in line for : He must be first in line for the editor's job. 28 be first/second/next etc in line to the throne to be the person who has a right to become a future king or queen: As the oldest son, he was next in line to the throne. 29 be on the line if something important is on the line, there is a risk that you might lose it or something bad could happen to it: From now on, all our jobs are on the line. She knew that her whole future was on the line. put yourself/your neck on the line (for somebody) (=risk something bad happening to you): I've already put myself on the line for you once, and I'm not going to do it again.

30 be in somebody's line- [informal] = to be the type of thing that someone is interested in or good at: Acting's not really in my line, I'm afraid.

31 get a line on somebody/something [informal] - especially American English- to get information about someone or something: We need to get some kind of a line on these guys. 32 somewhere along the line [informal] - at some time during an activity or period of time: Somewhere along the line, Errol seemed to have lost interest in her. 33 down the line [informal] later, after an activity or situation has been continuing for a period of time: There may be more costs further down the line. Now, three years down the line, we're beginning to see the problems with the treatment. 34 in the line of duty - happening or done as part of your job: firefighters dying in the line of duty 35 be in the firing line/in the line of fire a) to be one of the people who could be criticized or blamed for something: As one of the President's chief advisers, he's bound to be in the firing line. b) to be in a place where a bullet etc might hit you: A couple of civilians were caught in the firing line. 36 punishment lines [plural] -British English-a punishment given to school children that consists of writing the same thing a lot of times: He got 50 lines for being cheeky to a teacher. 37 family [singular] your family, considered as the people you are related to who lived before you and the people who will live after you: She comes from a long line of actors. It looks as if Joe might be the last of the line (=the last in his family). the male/female line : This particular gene is passed down through the male line.

line of succession (=the system by which an important position or property is passed from a parent to their children, and then to their children etc): Henry the Eighth wanted a male heir to ensure the Tudor line of succession. 38 job [countable usually singular] the type of work someone does line of work/business : What line of business is he in? in the building/retail etc line : She's keen to do something in the fashion line.

39 transport [countable]TT a company that provides transport for moving goods by sea, air, road etc: He runs a transatlantic shipping line. 40 drug [countable] [informal] an amount of an illegal drug in powder form, arranged in a line so it can be breathed in through the nose VERB line [transitive] 1 to sew a piece of material onto the inside or back of another piece to make it stronger or warmer: Are those curtains lined? line something with something : a leather coat lined with silk 2 to form a layer over the inner surface of something: The birds use small leaves for lining their nests. line something with something : The cage should be lined with straw. 3 to form rows along the sides of something: Crowds lined the route to the palace. be lined with something : The street was lined with small shops. a tree-lined avenue 4 line your own pockets = to make yourself richer, especially by doing something dishonest - used to show disapproval line up [phrasal verb] 1 if people line up, or if you line them up, they stand in a row or line, or you make them do this: Line up, everybody! line somebody up : He lined us all up in the corridor. 2 line something up = to arrange things in a row: I lined the bottles up on the sideboard. 3 line something up =to move one thing so that it is in the correct position in relation to something else line something up with : The windows should be lined up with the door frame. 4 line somebody/something up =to arrange for something to happen or for someone to be available for an event: We've lined up some excellent speakers for tonight.

He's already got a new job lined up.

ADJECTIVE lined 1 a coat, skirt etc that is lined has a piece of thin material covering the inside [ lining]: a fleece-lined jacket 2 paper that is lined has straight lines printed or drawn across it 3 skin that is lined has wrinkles on it lining [uncountable and countable] 1 a piece of material that covers the inside of something, especially a piece of clothing [ lined]: a jacket with a silk lining 2 a substance or material that covers the inside of part of the body: the lining of the womb assembly line [countable]= a system for making things in a factory in which the products move past a line of workers who each make or check one part bottom line [singular] 1the bottom line used to tell someone what the most important part of a situation is, or what the most important thing to consider is: In radio you have to keep the listener listening. That's the bottom line. 2 the profit or the amount of money that a business makes or loses 3 the least amount of money that you are willing to accept in a business deal by-line [countable] = a line at the beginning of an article in a newspaper or magazine that gives the writer's name dividing line [countable usually singular] =the difference between two similar things dividing line between : What's the dividing line between normal drinking and addiction? color line [singular] American English the set of laws or social customs in some places that prevents people of different races from going to the same places or taking part in the same activities [= colour bar British English] firing line (be) in the firing line =to be in a position or situation in which you can be attacked or blamed for something, often unfairly laughter lines [plural] [British English] = lines on your skin around your eyes, which can be seen when you laugh [= laugh lines American English] ledger line [countable] = a line on which you write musical notes that are too high or low to be shown on a stave line management [uncountable] British English - a system of management in which information and instructions are passed from one person to someone immediately higher or lower than them in rank line manager [countable] British English 1 a manager in a company who is responsible for the main activities of production, sales etc 2somebody's line manager = someone who is one level higher in rank than you in a company and is in charge of

your work
matter NOUN 1 SUBJECT/SITUATION [countable] a subject or situation that you have to think about or deal with a serious/important matter: There are more important matters we need to discuss. a personal/private matter: It was a personal matter, and she had no intention of talking to any journalist about it. a simple/easy matter (=something that is easy to do): It will be a simple matter to find her. financial/legal/political/religious matters: She held strong views on religious matters. a matter of importance: He consulted her on all matters of importance. a matter of/for concern: Safety standards in the industry have been a matter of concern. a matter for discussion/negotiation/consideration etc: The legal arrangements for the sale are matters for negotiation. be a matter for somebody (to decide) (=be something that a particular person should deal with): This is a matter for the German people to decide. be no laughing matter (=something very serious): he whole situation seems funny now, but it was no laughing matter at the time. the heart/crux of the matter (=the most important part of something): He no longer loved her. That was the crux of the matter. raise a matter with somebody (=discuss something with someone): I decided to raise the matter with my boss. let the matter rest/drop (=decide to stop worrying about something): He was too curious to let the matter drop. matters arising from/out of something (=things that come from or are connected with a particular event): There are a number of matters arising out of this. the matter at hand/in hand (=the thing you are dealing with now): We need to concentrate on the matter in hand. 2 matters [plural] a situation that you are in or have been describing: Maybe some of these suggestions will help to improve matters. Matters can be more easily sorted out once you get to the resort. His long absences didn't help matters (=made the situation worse). to make matters worse (=used to say that something makes a bad situation worse) : The team has lost the last two games and, to make matters worse, two of its best players are injured. to complicate matters further (=used to say that something makes a complicated situation more complicated) : To complicate matters further, the law on this issue has been changed. 3 MATERIAL[uncountable] a) HP the material that everything in the universe is made of, including solids, liquids, and gases: particles of matter

b) waste/solid/organic/vegetable etc matter = a substance that consists of waste material, solid material etc c) a yellow or white substance in wounds or next to your eye 4 as a matter of fact = spoken used when adding more details about what you have just said: 'Have you had many visitors yet?' 'No, as a matter of fact you're the first.' I knew him when we were in college - as a matter of fact we were on the same course. 5 what's the matter?/something's the matter/nothing's the matter etc -spoken used to ask or talk about why someone seems worried, unhappy, or ill, why something about a situation seems wrong, or why a machine seems not to be working properly: What's the matter? You look as though you've been crying. 'Is something the matter?' 'Just a headache - I'll be fine in a minute.' You look worried. Is there anything the matter? What's the matter with Bill? What's the matter with your eye? It looks red. I know something's the matter. You're frightened of something. Nothing's the matter, honestly, I'm fine. There was nothing the matter with it (=it was all right) when I lent it to him. She had something the matter with her back. 6 the truth/fact of the matter is (that) - spoken used when saying what you think is really true concerning a situation: The truth of the matter is that we don't know exactly how the disease is spread. 7 for that matter used to say that what you are saying about one thing is also true about something else: Ben never touched beer, or any kind of alcohol for that matter. He's an artist who has never been as well-known here, or for that matter as well-respected, as he has been in the USA. 8be (quite) a different matter -also be (quite) another matter especially British English used to say that a situation or action is very different from the one you have just mentioned, and may not be as easy, pleasant etc: She didn't mind seeing him in a group but an intimate dinner in a restaurant was another matter altogether. 9 take matters into your own hands = to deal with a problem yourself because other people have failed to deal with it: Local people took matters into their own hands and hired their own security guards. 10 it's only/just a matter of time - used to say that something will definitely happen in the future: It can only be a matter of time before someone is seriously injured. 11 a matter of life and/or death = a situation that is extremely serious or important, especially one in which someone could

die:

The quality of the ambulance service is a matter of life and death. Can't it wait? It's hardly a matter of life or death, is it?

12 be a matter of opinion - used to say that people have different opinions about something, especially when you yourself have a negative opinion: Whether or not he is any good as a manager is a matter of opinion. 13 be a matter of (personal) taste/choice/preference used to say that different people like different things: I can't say which wine is best - it's a matter of personal taste. 14 be a matter of principle to be something that you feel you must or must not do, because of your moral principles: She couldn't take the money. It was a matter of principle. 15 be a matter of doing something - used to say that an action involves doing something be simply/largely/merely etc a matter of doing something Reducing the number of road deaths is not simply a matter of improving roads. 16 a matter of seconds/weeks/hours etc = only a few seconds, weeks etc: The ambulance arrived in a matter of minutes. The bullet missed his head by a matter of inches. 17 as a matter of something = because of a particular belief or quality: He invited her as a matter of courtesy. As a matter of fairness, he should be allowed to give his version of events. 18 as a matter of interest [British English] spoken used when you ask or tell someone something that interests you but is not important: Just as a matter of interest, which school did you go to? 19 as a matter of urgency - if something is done or should be done as a matter of urgency, it is done or should be done very soon: That procedure should be streamlined as a matter of urgency. 20 as a matter of course/routine -if something is done as a matter of course or routine, it is the correct and usual thing to do in a particular situation: We will contact your former employer as a matter of course. 21 no matter how/whether/what etc also no matter the ... used to say that something is true or that something happens whatever the situation is: Feeding a baby is a messy job no matter how careful you are. I'm determined to visit Japan no matter what it costs. He visited her every day no matter the weather.

22 no matter what - spoken used to say that you will definitely do something: I'll call you tonight, no matter what. 23no matter - spoken formal or old-fashioned used to say that something is not important and will not affect a situation: 'I'm afraid I forgot to bring a towel.' 'No matter, I've got one you can borrow.' 24 it's a matter of fact (that) -used to say that something is a fact: It's a matter of fact that the team have not performed as well this season. 25 the little/small matter of something - spoken something that is not important or not difficult - used when you really think something is important or difficult: He seemed unworried by the small matter of the war that was in progress. There's the small matter of tonight's game if we are to reach the finals. 26 no matter that -used to say that something is not important and will not affect a situation: I would always be an outsider here - no matter that I spoke fluent Spanish. 27 reading/printed etc matter = things that are written for people to read: As well as textbooks and other printed matter, courses may include video and audio cassettes. VERB 1 [intransitive not in progressive] to be important, especially to be important to you, or to have an effect on what happens it doesn't etc matter if :Will it matter if I'm a little late? If I have to stay late at work tonight, it won't matter because we can go out another night. it doesn't etc matter who/why/what etc : It doesn't matter what you wear, as long as you look neat and tidy. Does it matter what I think? it doesn't etc matter that: It does not matter that the gun was in fact unloaded. Do you think it matters that the cups and saucers don't match? it doesn't matter about something: Just give me $5 ; it doesn't matter about the rest. matter to : He had lost many of the people who mattered to him. matter a lot/a great deal : It mattered a great deal to her what other people thought of her. not matter much/matter little : I don't think it matters much what you study, campaigning on issues that really matter

all that matters/the only thing that matters All that matters is that you're safe. Money was the only thing that mattered to him. I don't care what it looks like - what matters is that it works. At last she was with the man she loved and nothing else mattered. She said very little during the meal. Not that it mattered (=it was not important). 2 it doesn't matter spoken a) used to tell someone that you are not angry or upset about something, especially something that they have done: 'I've spilled some coffee on the carpet.' 'It doesn't matter.' b) used to say that you do not mind which one of two things you have: 'Red or white wine?' 'Oh, either. It doesn't matter.' 3 what does it matter? spoken used to say that something is not important: It all happened so long ago now, what does it matter? What does it matter how old I am?

............................................................................................................................................................................................ ....... front matter [uncountable] = all the pages at the very beginning of a book, including the page with the title on it subject matter [uncountable] =what is being talked about in speech or writing, or represented in art: The movie has been rated 'R' due to adult subject matter.
measure VERB 1 [transitive] to find the size, length, or amount of something, using standard units such as inches, metres etc: The rainfall was measured over a three-month period. measure somebody for something (=measure someone in order to make clothes for them): She was being measured for her wedding dress. measure something in something: We can measure the energy that food provides in calories. measuring jug/cup/tape (=one used for measuring) 2 [transitive] to judge the importance, value, or true nature of something [= assess]: Doctors say it is too early to measure the effectiveness of the drug. measure something by something: Education shouldn't be measured purely by examination results. 3 [linking verb] to be a particular size, length, or amount: The room measures 6x6 metres. The earthquake measured 6.5 on the Richter scale.

4 [transitive] if a piece of equipment measures something, it shows or records a particular kind of measurement: An odometer measures the number of miles your car travels. measure somebody/something against somebody/something [phrasal verb] =to judge someone or something by comparing them with another person or thing:

Bridget did not think she had to measure herself against some ideal standard. Measured against our budget last year, $2.7 million seems small.

measure something off [phrasal verb]= to measure a particular length or distance, and make a mark so that you can see the beginning and end: He measured off three yards of rope. measure something out [phrasal verb] =to take a specific amount of liquid, powder etc from a larger amount:

Measure out 100 grams of flour.

measure up [phrasal verb] 1 to be good enough to do a particular job or to reach a particular standard: We'll give you a week's trial in the job to see how you measure up. measure up to : How will the Secretary General measure up to his new responsibilities? 2 to measure something before you do something, for example before you put in new furniture, cupboards etc: I'd better measure up before I start laying the carpet. measure something up : Measure up any items that you want to keep in the kitchen.

NOUN 1 action = an action, especially an official one, that is intended to deal with a particular problem [= step]: Measures are being
taken to reduce crime in the city. drastic/tough/extreme etc measures drastic measures to reduce traffic problems New safety measures were being demanded after last night's horrific train crash. The new bridge was erected as a temporary measure to replace the one which was destroyed by floods. precautionary/preventative measure (=something done to stop something bad from happening) : He was kept in hospital overnight as a precautionary measure. 2 half measures =things done to deal with a difficult situation that are not effective or firm enough: This was no time for half

measures and compromises. 3 sign/proof be a measure of something [formal] be a sign of the importance, strength etc of something, or a way of testing or judging something: The flowers and tears at the funeral were a measure of the people's love for her. Exam results are not necessarily a true measure of a student's abilities. 4 amount a measure of something =an amount of something good or something that you want, for example success or freedom: The new law gives local governments a significant measure of control over their own finances. I met a number of sportsmen who had achieved a measure of success (=some success). 5 unit of measurement a) an amount or unit in a measuring system: a table of weights and measures b) a standard amount of an alcoholic drink 6 in large measure/in some measure =a lot or quite a lot - used when talking about the reason or cause of something: The improvements are due in large measure to his leadership. 7 in equal measure- used when the amount of one thing is the same as the amount of another thing: I was angry and embarrassed in equal measure. 8 for good measure = in addition to what you have already done, given, or included: Why don't you try phoning them one more time, for good measure? 9 beyond measure = very much or very great - used when you want to emphasize what you are saying: Her work has improved beyond measure. 10 the full measure of something [formal] the whole of something: Ralph received the full measure of his mother's devotion. 11 in full measure [formal] if someone gives something back in full measure, they give back as much as they received: They returned our hospitality in full measure. 12 have/get the measure of something = to become familiar with something, so that you can control or deal with it 13have/get the measure of somebody [British English] to know what someone's strengths and weaknesses are, so that you are able to deal with them or defeat them: She soon got the measure of her opponent. 14 thing used for measuring something used for measuring, for example a piece of wood or a container

money

15 music =a group of notes and rests, separated from other groups by vertical lines, into which a piece of music is divided [= bar British English] ....................................................................................................................................................... measured (adjective) = if you do something in a measured way, you do it in a careful and controlled way, not in an excited or sudden way: a measured response to the problem She spoke in measured tones. measuring jug [British English]; measuring cup American English [countable] =a container used for measuring liquids in cooking tape measure [countable]= a long narrow band of cloth or steel, marked with centimetres, feet etc, used for measuring something 1 what you earn by working and can use to buy things. Money can be in the form of notes and coins or cheques, and can be kept in a bank Don't spend all your money on the first day of your holiday! She doesn't earn very much money. He's working for a finance company now, and making loads of money. (=make a profit) At last the business is starting to make money. (=not make a profit, so that a business owes more than it earns) The company is losing money and may have to close down. The repairs will cost quite a lot of money. We're not going on holiday this year because we're trying to save money. Could you lend me some money? I don't want to borrow money from the bank unless I really have to. They charge huge amounts of money for their services. We're trying to raise money to help children with cancer. If you are not completely satisfied with our products, we will give you your money back. He was left a large sum of money. You can earn good money as a computer programmer. (=not make a profit, so that a business owes more than it earns) 2 money in the form of coins or notes that you can carry around with you [= cash]: You'll find some money in my purse. I didn't have any money on me (=I was not carrying any money). Swiss/Japanese/Turkish etc money Don't forget to get some Swiss money before you leave. We can change some money at the airport (=change it into the money of another country).

3 someone's wealth, including all the property and other things they own: The family made their money in the woollen trade. He had lost all his money gambling. 4the money[informal] the amount of money that you earn for doing a job: It sounds quite an interesting job, but I don't know what the money's like yet. You have to work long hours and the money's terrible! 5pay good money for something [spoken] to spend a lot of money on something: Don't let the children jump around on the sofa. I paid good money for that. 6 put/pump/pour money into something to give money to a company or business so that it will become successful and you will earn money from it in the future: No one's going to put money into the company while the market is so unstable. 7 there's money (to be made) in something [spoken] used to say that you can earn a lot of money from doing a particular job or type of business: There's a lot of money in sport these days. Teaching can be very rewarding, but there's no money in it. 8 I'm not made of money spoken used to say that you cannot afford something when someone asks you to pay for it. 9 have money to burn = to have more money than you need, so that you spend it on unnecessary things: Unless you've got money to burn, these expensive guitars are probably not for you. 10 get your money's worth to get something worth the price that you paid: At that price, you want to make sure you get your money's worth. 11 be in the money [informal] to have a lot of money suddenly, or when you did not expect to 12 money is no object [informal] used to say that someone can spend as much money as they want to on something 13 for my money - spoken used when giving your opinion about something to emphasize that you believe it strongly: For my money, he's one of the best TV comedians ever. 14 put (your) money on something =to risk money on the result of a race or competition 15 I'd put (my) money on something - spoken used to say that you feel sure that something will happen 16 my money's on somebody/something also the smart money's on somebody/something spoken used to say that you feel sure someone will win a race or competition, or that something will happen

17 money for old rope [British English] - spoken money that you earn very easily by doing a job that is not difficult 18 put your money where your mouth is [informal] = to show by your actions that you really believe what you say 19 money talks - spoken used to say that people with money have power and can get what they want 20 be (right) on the money [American English] spoken to be completely correct or right: You were right on the money when you said that he would have to resign. 21 marry (into) money =to marry someone whose family is rich . monies , moneys [plural] law money: If we are no longer able to provide the holiday you booked, we will return to you all monies paid. funny money [uncountable] [informal] = money that has been printed illegally [ counterfeit] hush money [uncountable] = money that is paid to someone not to tell other people about something embarrassing mad money [uncountable] American English- informal =money that you have saved so that you can spend it when you see something you want money laundering [uncountable] when money that has been obtained illegally is put into legal businesses or bank accounts in different countries, so that it is difficult for people to discover where it came from: The country is a major centre for money laundering. He will now face trial on money laundering charges. money order [countable] =an official document that you buy in a post office or a bank and send to someone so that they can exchange it for money in a bank [ postal order] money supply [singular] technicalPEC all the money that exists in a country's economic system at a particular time: his policy of controlling the money supply and cutting public spending new money [uncountable] 1 people who have become rich by working, rather than by getting money from their families 2 money that makes someone rich and that is recently earned, rather than from their families old money [uncountable] =people who come from families that have had a lot of money for a long time, which gives them a high social position: He invited both the smart set and Perth's old money a moral or legal duty to do something have an obligation (to do something): Employers have an obligation to treat all employees equally. be under an obligation (to do something) (=have an obligation): Parents are under a legal obligation to educate their children. be under no obligation (to do something): You are under no obligation to buy any more books. meet/fulfil an obligation (=do something that is your duty): Greater resources are needed to meet these obligations. honour an obligation formal (=meet an obligation) impose an obligation formal (=make someone have an obligation): the rights and obligations imposed on

obligation

opinion

them by treaties. owe somebody an obligation formal (=feel that you must do something for someone): The government must pay for health care for war veterans - it is an obligation we owe to them. moral/legal/social obligation: a moral obligation to help the poor contractual obligation (=something that a contract says you must do) a sense of obligation: He stayed with the team out of a sense of obligation. 1 [uncountable and countable] your ideas or beliefs about a particular subject in somebody's opinion: It's a terrible shame, in my opinion, that the building was knocked down. general/popular opinion (=what most people think about something): The general opinion is that the new law is a good thing. public opinion (=what ordinary people think about something): Politicians should listen to popular opinion. somebody's personal opinion: These are just my own personal opinions. difference of opinion a matter of opinion: Whether or not this is useful is a matter of opinion. ask (for) somebody's opinion express/give/state an opinion: Everyone has the right to express an opinion. strong opinion keep your opinions to yourself (=not say what you really think): Jody is a person with very strong opinions. contrary to popular opinion (=despite what most people think): Contrary to popular opinion, chocolate is quite good for you. ! Do not say 'according to someone's opinion'. Say either according to someone or in someone's opinion. 2 [countable] judgement or advice from a professional person about something: When choosing an insurance policy it's best to get an independent opinion. My doctor says I need an operation, but I've asked for a second opinion (=advice from a second doctor to make sure that the first advice is right). They took the painting to get an expert opinion (=an opinion from someone who knows a lot). 3 have a high/low/good/bad etc opinion of somebody/something = to think that someone or something is very good or very bad: They have a very high opinion of Paula's work. 4 be of the opinion (that) = to think that something is true: I was firmly of the opinion that we should not give Jackson any more money. .. opinion poll [countable]= the process of asking a large group of people the same questions in order to find out what most people think about something: An opinion poll showed that 70% of adults were against legalizing drugs. opinion-makers [plural] =people such as politicians or journalists who have a lot of influence on the way other people think public opinion [uncountable] = the opinions or beliefs that ordinary people have about a particular subject:

order

Public opinion is shifting in favor of the new law. the pressure of public opinion 1 for a purpose a) in order to do something for the purpose of doing something: Samuel trained every day in order to improve his performance. In order to understand how the human body works, you need to have some knowledge of chemistry. b) in order for/that [formal] = so that something can happen or so that someone can do something: Sunlight is needed in order for the process of photosynthesis to take place in plants. 2 arrangement [uncountable and countable] the way that things or events are arranged in relation to each other, for example showing whether something is first, second, third etc [= sequence] in ( ... ) order The photographs can be viewed in any order. Make a list of what you have to do, and put them in order with the most important at the top. in order of importance/priority/preference etc : Students learn the verbs in order of difficulty. do something in order (=do things one after another, according to a plan) Then they call out our names in order and we answer yes or no. Your paragraphs are not arranged in a logical order. My files are in alphabetical order. in the right/correct order: Replace all the pieces in the correct order. out of order/in the wrong order Be careful not to get the cards in the wrong order. He always shaves his face in the same order, right side, then left. in reverse order (=in the opposite order to what is usual) in descending/ascending order (=starting with the highest or lowest number) : The leaflet gives details of all the hotels in the area in descending order of price.

instruction [countable usually plural] an instruction to do something that is given by someone in authority

an/the order to do something give/issue an order: The captain had to give the order to abandon ship. follow/obey orders: I followed your orders to the letter (=I did exactly what you ordered). take orders from somebody: I'm not taking orders from him! receive an order: He received a direct order from the President. have (strict) orders to do something/be under (strict) orders to do: She is under strict orders to have a complete rest. something (=have been told to do something) court order: he government obtained a court order requiring the editor to reveal his source.

doctor's orders (=when the doctor says you must do something): I've got to take it easy - doctor's orders. by order of somebody/on the orders of somebody: The company cannot be identified by order of the court.

controlled situation [uncountable] a situation in which rules are obeyed and authority is respected:
the breakdown of law and order The riots are a threat to public order. order/keep somebody in order (=stop people from behaving badly) The physics teacher couldn't keep order in any class. She had trouble keeping her teenage sons in order. The army was called in to restore order.

keep

5 well-organized state [uncountable] a situation in which everything is controlled, well organized, and correctly arranged: Let's have some order in here. You need to put your financial affairs in order. She keeps her room in good order. 6for food or drink[countable] a) a request for food or drink in a restaurant or bar: The waiter took our orders. last orders British English (=the last time you can order a drink before a bar closes) : Last orders now please! b) the food or drink you have asked for in a restaurant or bar: When our order finally arrived we were very hungry indeed. 7 for goods [countable] a) a request by a customer for a company to supply goods: Goods will be sent within 24 hours of receiving your order. You can always cancel your order if you change your mind. The government has placed an order for (=asked a company to supply) new weapons. Please complete the enclosed order form. on order (=asked for, but not yet received) : My bicycle is on order. make/supply something to order (=produce something especially for a particular customer): They make handmade shoes to order.
b) goods that you have ordered from a company: Your order has arrived - you can collect it from the store any time.

8 be out of order a) if a machine or piece of equipment is out of order, it is not working: The phone is out of order again. b) British English informal if someone's behaviour is out of order, it is unacceptable [= out of line American English] c) to be breaking the rules in a committee, court, parliament etc: The MP's remarks were ruled out of order. 9 be in order a) if something is in order, it is correct or right: Everything is in order. b) to be a suitable thing to do or say on a particular occasion: I hear congratulations are in order. c) if an official document is in order, it is legal and correct: Is your passport in order? d) if something that you do is in order, it is allowed by the rules in a committee, court, parliament etc 10 be in (good) working/running order in good condition or working well: She keeps her bicycle in good working order. 11 social/economic situation [singular]PSS the political, social, or economic situation at a particular time social/political order He called the rioters a threat to the social order. The people of South Africa wanted a new order. He dared to challenge the established (=traditional) order. 12 be the order of the day a) to be suitable for a particular occasion or situation: Casual clothes are the order of the day. b) to be very common at a particular time - used especially when you disapprove of something: Sexual explicitness is the order of the day. 13 the order of things the way that life and the world are organized and intended to be: People accepted the class system as part of the natural order of things. 14 of a high order/of the highest order also of the first order of a very good kind or of the best kind: an achievement of the highest order 15 withdraw/retreat in good order to move away from the enemy in war in an organized way 16 in the order of something/of the order of something also on the order of something American English a little more or a little less than a particular amount, especially a high amount [= approximately]: a figure in the order of $7 million 17 religious group [countable]RR a society of monks or nuns (=people who live a holy life according to religious rules): the Benedictine Order order of the order of Jesuits

18 take (holy) orders = to become a priest 19 secret society [countable] an organization or society whose members meet for secret ceremonies 20official honour countable]PGO a group of people who have received a special official reward from a king, president etc for their services or achievements: he Order of the Garter 21money countable] = an official piece of paper that can be exchanged for money 22 he lower orders-British English- old-fashioned people who belong to the lowest social class 23 animals/plants [countable] technical- a group of animals or plants that are considered together because they evolved from the same plant or animal 24 computer [countable] American English a list of jobs that a computer has to do in a particular order [= queue British English] 25 Order! Order! -spoken used to ask people to stop talking in a meeting or parliament VERB Order 1 ask for food/drink [intransitive and transitive] to ask for food or a drink in a restaurant, bar etc: Anne ordered another glass of wine. Are you ready to order? He sat down and ordered a meal. 2 ask for goods [intransitive and transitive] to ask for goods or services to be supplied: I've ordered a new computer from the supplier. order somebody something: I'll order you a taxi. 3 tell somebody to do something [transitive] to tell someone that they must do something, especially using your official power or authority: The court ordered his release from prison. 'Stay right there,' she ordered. order somebody to do something Tom was ordered to pay 300 as compensation. Her doctor had ordered her to rest for a week. be ordered back to something : The soldiers were ordered back to their units. order that : He ordered that the house be sold. 4 arrange [transitive] to arrange something in an order: The list is ordered alphabetically.

order somebody around [phrasal verb] to give someone orders in an annoying or threatening way: How dare he order her about like that? order somebody out [phrasal verb] =to order soldiers or police to go somewhere to stop violent behaviour by a crowd: The governor decided to order out the National Guard. .. ordered also well-ordered =well arranged or controlled: an ordered existence; a well-ordered household ordering [uncountable and countable]:the way in which something is arranged, or the act of arranging something: a different ordering gag order [countable] =an order made by the court to prevent any public reporting of a case which is still being considered by a court of law money order [countable] =an official document that you buy in a post office or a bank and send to someone so that they can exchange it for money in a bank [ postal order] order book [countable usually plural] especially British English =a record of how many goods or services a company has been asked to provide, which shows how successful it is financially: Our order books are full at the moment. order paper [countable] =a list of subjects to be discussed in the British Parliament pecking order [singular]=a social system within a group of people or animals in which each member knows who has a higher or lower rank than themselves: Nobody wants to be at the bottom of the pecking order. postal order [countable]British English- an official document that you buy in a post office and send to someone so that they can then exchange it for money [= money order American English] restraining order [countable] =an official legal document that prevents someone from doing something standing order [uncountable and countable] British English =an arrangement by which a bank pays a fixed amount of money from your account every month, year etc [ direct debit] outcome [countable] =the final result of a meeting, discussion, war etc - used especially when no one knows what it will be until it actually happens [= result] outcome of It was impossible to predict the outcome of the election. People who had heard the evidence at the trial were surprised at the outcome. NOUN place [countable] 1 area/space/building etca space or area, for example a particular point on a surface or a room, building, town, city etc: Make sure you keep the key in a safe place. I've spent the day dashing about from place to place. The place was full of screaming children. He was threatening to burn the place down.

outcome

place

She had never been back to the place where the accident happened. The theatre bar was our usual meeting place. We were living then in a place called Alberiga. The wall was quite damp in places (=in some places). place for : This is a great place for a holiday. a place to do something I couldn't find a place to park. Did the accident happen at your place of work (=the place where you work)? The Great Mosque has been a place of worship for Muslims for centuries. 2 home [informal] = a house or apartment where someone lives: They've got quite a big place on the outskirts of Leeds. somebody's place Do you want to come back to my place for coffee? It took us ages to find a place to live. He's staying with us until he can find a place of his own. 3 take place =to happen, especially after being planned or arranged: The next meeting will take place on Thursday. Talks between the two sides are still taking place. Major changes are taking place in society. 4 space to sit or put something =a space where someone can sit, or a space where you can put something: I might arrive a bit late, so could you save me a place? There are still a few places left on the coach. Make sure you put everything back in its proper place. place for : Can you find a good place for this vase? 5 point in book/speech =a point that you have reached in a book or a speech: This would be a good place to stop and answer any questions that people have. I used a bookmark so that I wouldn't lose my place (=forget the point that I had reached). 6 opportunity to do somethingif someone has a place somewhere, they have the opportunity to go there or join in an activity place in If you don't come to training you might lose your place in the team. We've been trying to find her a place in a residential home. place on He was offered a place on the management committee.

 There are still a couple of places left on the course. place at : I've been offered a place at York University.
7 role/position =the role or important position that someone or something has in a situation or in society somebody's place : the old idea that a woman's place is in the home place in He finally reached the summit of Everest and secured his place in history. Working has a very important place in all our lives. 8 in place a) in the correct position: The chairs for the concert were nearly all in place. The glass was held in place by a few pieces of sellotape. b) existing and ready to be used: Funding arrangements are already in place. 9 in place of somebody/something -also in somebody's/something's place instead of someone or something else: In place of our advertised programme, we will have live coverage of the special memorial service. The company flag had been taken down and in its place hung the Union Jack. If I refused to go, they would send someone else in my place. 10 take the place of somebody/something -also take somebody's/something's place to exist or be used instead of someone or something else [= replace]: Natural methods of pest control are now taking the place of chemicals. I had to find someone to take Jenny's place. 11 in somebody's place -used to talk about what you would do if you were in someone else's situation: What would you do in my place? Try to put yourself in my place and think how you would feel. 12 be no place for somebody -to be a completely unsuitable place for someone: This is no place for a child. 13 first/second/third etc place first, second etc position in a race or competition: He took second place in the long jump. in first/second etc place : I finished in third place. 14 in the first place a) used to introduce a series of points in an argument, discussion etc: In the first place, I'm too busy, and in the second I don't really want to go. b) used to talk about what someone did or should have done at the start of a situation: I wish I'd never got involved in the first place!

15 take second place (to somebody/something) to be less important than someone or something else: She wasn't prepared to take second place in his life. 16 take your places used to tell people to go to the correct place or position that they need to be in for an activity: If you would like to take your places, the food will be served shortly. 17 all over the place [Informal] a) everywhere: There was blood all over the place. b) in a very untidy state: She came in with her hair all over the place. 18 put somebody in their place =to show someone that they are not as clever or important as they think they are: I soon put him in his place. 19 out of place a) not suitable for a particular situation or occasion: He never seemed to feel out of place at social functions. The paintings looked strangely out of place. b) not in the correct or usual position: The kitchen was spotlessly clean, with nothing out of place. 20 it is not somebody's place (to do something) if it is not your place to do something, you do not have the duty or right to do it: It's not your place to criticize me! 21 have no place [formal] = to be completely unacceptable have no place in : Capital punishment has no place in a modern society. 22 fall into place a) if things fall into place in your mind, you suddenly realize and understand what is really happening: Things were beginning to fall into place in my mind. Everything suddenly fell into place. b) if plans or events fall into place, they start to happen in the way that you hoped they would: Eventually I got a job, and my life began to fall into place. 23 be going places [Informal] to start becoming successful in your life: William is a young man who is definitely going places. 24 be in a good/bad etc place[American English] informal - to be in a good, bad etc situation VERB 1 position [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to put something somewhere, especially with care [= put]: She poured the doctor a cup of tea and placed it on the table. He carefully placed the folder back in his desk drawer.

2 situation [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to put someone or something in a particular situation [= put]: The government is being placed under pressure to give financial help to farmers. Children must not be placed at risk. Some areas of the city have been placed under curfew. This places me in a very difficult position. 3 in a job/home[transitive] formalBE to find a suitable job or home for someone: Some unemployed people can be very difficult to place. He was later placed with a foster family. 4 arrange something [transitive]DGG to arrange for something to be done: He placed an advertisement in the local paper. You can place orders by telephone. I had no idea which horse I should place a bet on. 5 how good/important [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to say how good or important you think someone or something is: I would place health quite high on my list of priorities. places somebody/something above/before somebody/something : Some museums seem to place profit above education.

6 place value/importance/emphasis etc on something = to decide that something is important: Most people place too much value on money. The company places a lot of emphasis on training.

7 can't place somebody =to recognize someone, but be unable to remember where you have met them before: I've seen her somewhere before, but I can't quite place her. 8 be well/ideally etc placed a) to be in a good situation where you have the ability or opportunity to do something be well/ideally placed to do something : The company is now well placed to compete in Europe. b) British English to be in a good place or position be well/ideally etc placed for : The hotel is well placed for most of London's theatres. 9 racesbe placed first/second etc=to be first, second etc in a race or competition .......................................................................................................................................................... placing [countable] British English - the position of someone or something in a competition or ordered list: Hancock and Smith took the top two placings. NOUN 1 idea [countable] a single fact, idea, or opinion that is part of an argument or discussion: That's a very interesting point.

point

point

That's a good point. There are three important points we must bear in mind. This brings me to my next point. about I agree with John's point about keeping the costs down. I'd like to make one final point before I stop. Some simple examples will illustrate the point. He showed me some of the original documents to prove his point. I can see your point (=I understand it) and in general I agree with you. You have a point there (=I agree with your idea or opinion). I take your point (=understand it) about waiting until the spring. OK, Sam, point taken (=I understand your idea or opinion). They spent the evening discussing the finer points of (=the small details of) world politics.

2 main meaning/idea the point =the most important fact or idea: The point is, at least we're all safely back home. Nobody knows exactly how it works. That's the whole point. He may not have stolen the money himself, but that's not the point. I wish you'd get to the point (=talk about the most important thing). I'll come straight to the point (=talk about the most important thing first). I need to find out who killed Alf, and more to the point (=what is more important) I need to do it before anyone else gets killed. We all like him, but that's beside the point (=not the most important thing). I think you've missed the point (=you have not understood the most important thing). 3 purpose [uncountable] the purpose or aim of something: I suppose we could save one or two of the trees, but what's the point? point of What's the point of this meeting anyway? The whole point of this legislation is to protect children. There's no point in worrying. We're going to lose anyway, so I can't see the point of playing. I didn't see the point in moving to London. 4 place [countable] a particular place or position: The accident happened at the point where the A15 joins the M1.

No cars are allowed beyond this point. a border crossing point Cairo is a convenient departure point for tours. Dover is a point of entry into Britain.

5 in time/development [countable] an exact moment, time, or stage in the development of something: I had reached a point in my career where I needed to decide which way to go. She had got to the point where she felt that she could not take any more. Their win over old rivals Manchester United was the high point (=best part) in their season. Sales reached a low point in 1996. We will take last week's riots as a starting point for our discussion. At one point, I thought he was going to burst into tears. Maybe at this point we should move onto some of the practical experiments. At that point, I was still living at home and had no job. You will probably sell the car at some point in the future. It is impossible to give a definite answer at this point in time. Some children are bullied to the point of suicide (=until they reach this stage). 6 quality/feature [countable usually plural] a particular quality or feature that something or someone has somebody's/something's good/bad points Sometimes she had to remind herself of his good points. point of They would spend hours discussing the finer points (=small details about qualities and features) of various cars. The low price is one of its main selling points (=features that will help to sell it). Driving was not one of Baxter's strong points. One of the club's plus points is that it is central. There were some weak points in his argument. 7 games/sport [countable]DSDG one of the marks or numbers that shows your score in a game or sport: He is three points behind the leader. Leeds United are now six points clear at the top of the table. She had to win this point. You get three points for a win and one point for a draw. You lose a point if you do not complete the puzzle on time. The fight went the full fifteen rounds, and in the end the American won on points. 8 sharp end [countable] - a sharp end of something: the sharp point of a spear

9 boiling point/freezing point/melting point etc =the temperature at which something boils, freezes, melts etc: Heat the water until it reaches boiling point. 10 the point of no return =a stage in a process or activity when it becomes impossible to stop it or do something different reach/pass the point of no return: I was aware that we had passed the point of no return. 11 point of departure =an idea which you use to start a discussion: He takes the idea of personal freedom as his point of departure. 12 be on the point of (doing) something = to be going to do something very soon: I was on the point of giving up the search when something caught my eye in the bushes. The country's economy is on the point of collapse. 13 up to a point = partly, but not completely: I agree with you up to a point. That is true, but only up to a point. 14 to the point =dealing only with the important subject or idea, and not including any unnecessary discussions: Her comments were brief and to the point. 15 make a point of doing something =to do something deliberately, even when it involves making a special effort: He made a point of spending Saturdays with his children. I always make a point of being early. 16 when/if it comes to the point [British English] - used to talk about what happens when someone is in a difficult situation and has to make a difficult decision: I'm sure that if it came to the point, he would do what is expected of him. 17 in point of fact [formal] - used when saying that something is true, although it may seem unlikely: We were assured that the prisoners were being well treated, when in point of fact they were living in terrible conditions. 18 not to put too fine a point on it =especially British English used when you are saying something in a very direct way: She's lying, not to put too fine a point on it. 19 numbers [countable] a sign (. ) used to separate a whole number from any decimals that follow it 20 measure on a scale [countable] a mark or measure on a scale: The stock market has fallen by over 200 points in the last week. 21 small spot[countable] a very small spot of light or colour: The stars shone like points of light in the sky.

22 direction [countable] one of the marks on a compass that shows direction: Soldiers were advancing on us from all points of the compass. 23 piece of land [countable] -a long thin piece of land that stretches out into the sea: We sailed round the point into a small, sheltered bay. 24 electricity [countable] British EnglishTEE a piece of plastic with holes in it which is attached to a wall and to which electrical equipment can be connected: a telephone point; an electrical point 25 railways points [plural] British EnglishTTT a piece of railway track that can be moved to allow a train to cross over from one track to another: The train rattled over the points. VERB point 1 show something with your finger [intransitive and transitive] to show something to someone by holding up one of your fingers or a thin object towards it: 'Look!' she said and pointed. point at : I could see him pointing at me and telling the other guests what I had said. point to/towards :She was pointing to a small boat that was approaching the shore. point with The driver pointed with his whip. She pointed in the direction of the car park. He stood up and pointed his finger at me. 2 aim something [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to hold something so that it is aimed towards a person or thing point something at somebody/something He stood up and pointed his gun at the prisoner. She produced a camera and pointed it at me. 3 face in one direction [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] to face or be aimed in a particular direction: The arrow always points north. There were flashlights all around us, pointing in all directions. point at: There were TV cameras pointing at us. point to/towards The hands of the clock pointed to a quarter past one. We found footprints pointing towards the back door. 4 show somebody where to go [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to show someone which direction they should go in: She pointed me towards an armchair. Could you point me in the direction of the bathroom, please?

5 suggest what somebody should do [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to suggest what someone should do: My teachers were all pointing me towards university. A financial adviser should be able to point you in the right direction. 6suggest that something is true[intransitive always + adverb/preposition] to suggest that something is true: Everything seemed to point in one direction. point to/towards All the evidence pointed towards Blake as the murderer. Everything points to her having died from a drugs overdose. 7 walls/buildings [transitive] British EnglishTBB to put new cement between the bricks of a wall 8 point your toes= to stretch the ends of your feet downwards 9 point the/a finger at somebody =to blame someone or say that they have done something wrong: I knew that they would point the finger at me. I don't want to point a finger of blame at anyone. 10 point the way a) to show the direction that something is in point the way to/towards : An old-fashioned signpost pointed the way to the restaurant. b) to show how something could change or develop successfully point the way forward/forwards : This report points the way forward for the water industry. point the way to/towards : a government paper which points the way towards reform point something out [phrasal verb] 1 to tell someone something that they did not already know or had not thought about: He was always very keen to point out my mistakes. The murder was obviously well planned, as the inspector had pointed out. point out that : Some economists have pointed out that low inflation is not necessarily a good thing. point something out to somebody : Thank you for pointing this out to me. 2 to show something to someone by pointing at it: Luke pointed out two large birds by the water's edge. point somebody/something out to somebody : I'll point him out to you if we see him. point to something [phrasal verb] to mention something because you think it is important: Many politicians have pointed to

the need for a written constitution. point something up [phrasal verb] =to make something seem more important or more noticeable: These cases point up the complete incompetence of some government departments. ....................................................................................................................................................... pointed [usually before noun] 1having a point at the end: a pointed beard 2 a pointed question/look/remark =a direct question, look etc that deliberately shows that you are annoyed, bored, or disapprove of something: a pointed remark about my being late win/earn/score etc brownie points [informal] to get praise for something you have done after trying to make someone have a good opinion of you: I'm not doing it just to get brownie points. bullet point [countable] = a thing in a list that consists of a word or short phrase, with a small printed symbol in front of it vantage point also vantage [countable] 1 a good position from which you can see something: From my vantage point on the hill, I could see the whole procession. 2 a way of thinking about things that comes from your own particular situation or experiences [= point of view]: The whole dispute looked silly from my vantage point. turning point [countable] =the time when an important change starts, especially one that improves the situation turning point in : Meeting her was the turning point in my life. NOUN 1 way of standing/sitting etc [countable] the way someone is standing, sitting, or lying: Lie in a comfortable position. Frankie shifted his position so that his knees would not become cramped. sitting/kneeling/standing position : I struggled up into a sitting position. 2situation [countable usually singular] the situation that someone is in, especially when this affects what they can and cannot do in somebody's position: I'm not sure what I would do if I were in your position. in the same/a similar position in a good/strong position (to do something): We're in a strong position, but we mustn't take victory for granted. in an enviable position (=in a situation that other people would like to be in): She is in the enviable position of having three job offers. in a difficult/awkward/impossible position: You're putting me in rather a difficult position. a position of strength (=a situation in which you can get what you want): We must negotiate from a position of strength . financial/legal position: the company's precarious financial position

position

strengthen/weaken somebody's position (=put someone in a better or worse situation)

3 place where somebody/something is [countable] the place where someone or something is, especially in relation to other objects and places position of the position of the sun in the sky Our hotel was in a superb central position near St Mark's Square. the strategic position (=useful or important position) of Egypt in relation to the Arabian peninsula 4 correct place [uncountable and countable] the place where someone or something is needed or supposed to be into position : He pulled the ladder into position. in/out of position : All parking signs have now been placed in position. 5 direction [countable] the direction in which an object is pointing vertical/upright/horizontal position Make sure the container remains in an upright position. She turned the switch to the 'on' position. 6 opinion [countable] an opinion or judgment on a particular subject, especially the official opinion of a government, a political party, or someone in authority [= attitude] position on What's the party's position on tax reform? The principal took the position that the students didn't need music classes. I hope you'll reconsider your position. 7 job [countable] formal a job somebody's position as something : Bill took up his new position as Works Director in October. position of She has held the position of Chief Financial Officer since 1992. Bruce is thinking of applying for the position. I'm sorry, the position has been filled (=someone has been found to do the job). 8 level/rank [uncountable and countable] someone's or something's level, authority, or importance in a society or organization the position of somebody : the position of women in society position of power/authority/influence etc Many of his supporters used their positions of power for personal advantage. As a priest, he was in a position of trust. abuse your position as something (=use your authority wrongly)

9 be in a position to do something =to be able to do something because you have the ability, money, or power to do it: When I know all the facts, I'll be in a position to advise you. 10 be in no position to do something to be unable to do something because you do not have the ability, money, or power to do it: You're unemployed and in no position to support a family. Ned says I'm always late? He's in no position to talk (=should not criticize because he does the same thing). 11 race/competition [uncountable and countable]DS the place of someone or something in a race or competition in relation to the other people or things (in) 2nd/3rd/4th etc position : Alesi finished in third position. 12 sports [countable]DS the area where someone plays in a sport, or the type of actions they are responsible for doing: What position do you play? 13 jockey/manoeuvre/jostle for position =to try to get an advantage over other people who are all trying to succeed in doing the same thing: Firms adopt different strategies as they jockey for position. 14 army [countable usually plural]PMA a place where an army has put soldiers, guns etc: an attack on the enemy positions

practice

VERB position [transitive always + adverb/preposition] =to carefully put something in a particular position: Position the cursor before the letter you want to delete. position yourself : I positioned myself where I could see the door. NOUN 1 a skill [uncountable and countable] when you do a particular thing, often regularly, in order to improve your skill at it: It takes hours of practice to learn to play the guitar. With a little more practice you should be able to pass your test. We have choir practice on Tuesday evening. in practice for something : Schumacher crashed out in practice for the Australian grand prix. football/rugby/basketball etc practice John's at baseball practice. ! In British English the verb is always spelled practise (>see separate entry). In American English both noun and verb are spelled practice. 2 in practice = used when saying what really happens rather than what should happen or what people think happens: In practice women receive much lower wages than their male colleagues. The journey should only take about 30 minutes, but in practice it usually takes more like an hour.

3 something done often [uncountable and countable] something that people do often, especially a particular way of doing something or a social or religious custom: religious beliefs and practices dangerous working practices the practice of doing something : the practice of dumping waste into the sea 4 doctor/lawyer [countable]BBC the work of a doctor or lawyer, or the place where they work medical/legal practice: Mary Beth had a busy legal practice in Los Angeles. 5 be common/standard/normal practice = to be the usual and accepted way of doing something: It's common practice in many countries for pupils to repeat a year if their grades are low. It's standard practice to seek parents' permission wherever possible. 6 good/best/bad practice = an example of a good or bad way of doing something, especially in a particular job: It's not considered good practice to reveal clients' names. 7 put something into practice - if you put an idea, plan etc into practice, you start to use it and see if it is effective: It gave him the chance to put his ideas into practice. 8 be out of practice = to have not done something for a long time, so that you are not able to do it well 9 practice makes perfect - used to say that if you do an activity regularly, you will become very good at it VERB Practise [British English] ; practice [American English] 1 [intransitive and transitive] to do an activity, often regularly, in order to improve your skill or to prepare for a test: They moved the furniture back to practise their dance routine. It gives students the opportunity to practice their speaking skills. practise doing something : Today we're going to practise parking. practise for : She's practicing for her piano recital. practise something on somebody : Everybody wants to practise their English on me. 2 [transitive] to use a particular method or custom: a technique not widely practised in Europe 3 [intransitive and transitive] to work as a doctor or lawyer: medical graduates who intend to practise in the UK practise as : Gemma is now practising as a dentist. 4 [transitive]- if you practise a religion, system of ideas etc, you live your life according to its rules: They are free to practice their religion openly.

probability

5 practise what you preach =to do the things that you advise other people to do: She didn't always practise what she preached. .. best practice [uncountable and countable] = a description of the best way of performing a particular activity, especially in business, that can be used by other people or companies as a set of rules to follow family practice [uncountable] = a part of medical practice in the US in which doctors learn to treat general health problems of people of all ages group practice [uncountable and countable] =a group of several doctors who all work in the same building private practice [uncountable and countable] 1 the business of a professional person that is independent of a bigger or government-controlled organization: Richard set up in private practice. 2 [American English] the business of a professional person, especially a doctor, who works alone rather than with others restrictive practices [plural] 1 unreasonable rules that are used by a trade union to limit the kind of work that members of other trade unions are allowed to do for a company 2 an unfair trade agreement between companies that limits the amount of competition there is 1 [uncountable and countable] how likely something is, sometimes calculated in a mathematical way [= likelihood, chance] the probability of (doing) something The probability of winning the lottery is really very low. There's a high probability that the children will follow a different career. probability that There is a 95% probability that she will not have the disease. You must decide whether, on the balance of probabilities, he committed the crime. 2 [singular] what is likely or something that is likely: The probability is that smaller businesses will not have to pay the tax. A peace agreement now seems a probability rather than a possibility. high/strong probability: projects that have a high probability of making profits

progress

3 in all probability = very probably: Mistakes could and, in all probability, would occur. NOUN 1 the process of getting better at doing something, or getting closer to finishing or achieving something make progress: I'm afraid we're not making much progress. progress in (doing) something slow/steady progress: They say they are making steady progress towards a peace settlement; the slow progress of the investigation good/significant/substantial/rapid progress: There has been significant progress in understanding the HIV infection.

follow/chart/monitor/keep track of somebody's progress: tests designed to monitor the student's progress hinder somebody/something's progress (=make it slower): At school his academic progress was hindered by a series of health problems. economic/technological/scientific progress: The country has made huge economic progress in recent years.

2 slow or steady movement somewhere: We made good progress despite the snow. progress through : ey watched the ship's slow progress through the heavy seas. 3 change which is thought to lead to a better society, because of developments in science or fairer methods of social organization: Mankind is destroying the planet, all in the name of progress (=because people want progress). Under communism, nothing was allowed to get in the way of the great march of progress. 4 in progress [formal] happening now, and not yet finished: A lecture was in progress in the main hall. work/research in progress : They looked in periodically to check the work in progress. ! progress is an uncountable noun. Do not say 'a progress' or 'progresses'. VERB progress 1 [intransitive] to improve, develop, or achieve things so that you are then at a more advanced stage [ regress]: I asked the nurse how my son was progressing. progress to : She started with a cleaning job, and progressed to running the company. progress towards : We must progress towards full integration of Catholic and Protestant pupils in Ireland. progress beyond :Last year the team didn't progress beyond the opening round. 2 [intransitive and transitive] - if an activity such as work or a project progresses, or you progress it, it continues: Work on the ship progressed quickly. We're hoping to progress the Lane project more quickly next week. 3 [intransitive] if time or an event progresses, time passes: As the meeting progressed, Nina grew more and more bored. Time is progressing, so I'll be brief. 4 [intransitive] to move forward slowly: Our taxi seemed to be progressing very slowly. progress report [countable] = a statement about how something, especially work, is developing 1 [countable usually singular] the purpose of something is what it is intended to achieve purpose of The purpose of this meeting is to elect a new chairman. What is the purpose of your visit?

purpose

the purpose of doing something : The purpose of conducting a business is to make money. for/with the purpose of doing something Troops were sent solely for the purpose of assisting refugees. He came here with the purpose of carrying out the attack. sole/primary/main etc purpose: The protection of children is the primary purpose of this legislation. 2 purposes [plural] the reasons that explain why something is needed or why it is considered in a particular way: Several of the items had religious purposes. for medical/political/decorative etc purposes It should be legitimate to use cannabis for medical purposes. For tax purposes, you will be treated as a married couple. The details are, for the present purposes, irrelevant. for the purposes of something : For the purposes of this book, America is taken to include the continent north of Mexico. 3 [countable] a plan or aim: Nick had no particular purpose in mind when he started. somebody's purpose in doing something : Attending the race was not my purpose in coming to Indianapolis. serve a purpose (=achieve a particular aim) : It would serve no useful purpose to re-open the investigation. 4 on purpose = deliberately do something on purpose : You make it sound as if I did it on purpose! 5 feeling [uncountable] a feeling of determination to achieve things in life: It's so important to have a sense of purpose that it underlies human happiness. My football career was over and I had no purpose in life. He possessed great strength of purpose. 6 for all practical purposes - also to all intents and purposes used to say that something is so close to the truth that it can be considered to be the truth: The war, to all intents and purposes, was over. We have a Secretary of State for Scotland who is for all practical purposes a Scottish Prime Minister. 7 serve its purpose - if something has served its purpose, it has done what you needed it to do: We delete the data once it has served its purpose. 8 defeat the purpose = to fail to achieve the result you want: Anxiety will cause tension, which defeats the purpose of the exercise (=the activity or plan). 9 to no purpose [formal] = without any useful results: She called after them, but to no purpose.

10 to the purpose = old-fashioned useful or helpful . all-purpose [only before noun] =able to be used in any situation: an all-purpose cleaner at cross-purposes - if two people are at cross-purposes, they do not understand each other because they are talking about different things but fail to realize this: I think we're talking at cross-purposes. general-purpose [only before noun] =suitable for most situations or jobs, or having a wide range of uses: a general-purpose computer purpose-built [British English] = designed and made for a particular purpose: purpose-built toilets for disabled people. question NOUN 1 asking for information [countable] a sentence or phrase that is used to ask for information or to test someone's knowledge [ answer]

ask (somebody) a question: Can I ask you a question? answer a question: I'm afraid I can't answer that question. Did you answer all the questions in the test? have a question (=want to ask a question): Does anyone have any questions? put a question to somebody (=ask someone a question in a formal situation) difficult/awkward/tricky question: They asked me quite a lot of difficult questions about my job. avoid/evade/sidestep a question (=avoid giving a clear direct answer): Stop trying to avoid the question! set a question (=invent a question for a test) exam/test question: The exam questions are set by a team of experts. pose a question formal (=ask a question): the answer to the question posed at the beginning of this chapter searching/probing question (=one that tries to get a full and thoughtful answer from someone) bombard somebody with questions (=ask someone a lot of questions): Journalists bombarded the couple with questions. rephrase a question (=ask it in a different way): Perhaps I should rephrase the question rhetorical question (=one you ask without expecting an answer, as a way of making a point in a discussion) in answer to your question (=used for referring back to a question you are going to answer): In answer to your last question, 'Yes'.

2 subject/problem [countable] a subject or problem that needs to be discussed or dealt with [= issue] question of We discussed the question of confidentiality. This raises the question of government funding. an urgent need to address the question of crime

Several questions have still not been resolved. The question is should I take the job in Japan, or should I stay here? Some important questions remain unanswered (=still have not been dealt with or explained).

3 doubt [uncountable] if there is some question about something, there is doubt about it, or people feel uncertain about it: The exact cause of death is still open to question (=not certain). call/bring/throw something into question (=make people doubt something) This has called into question people's right to retire at 60. He's by far the best candidate, there's no question about it (=it is completely certain). There is no question that (=it is completely certain that) the government knew about the deal. beyond question (=completely certain or definite): Her efficiency and intelligence are beyond question. 4 without question a) used to emphasize that what you are saying is true or correct: Marilyn was, without question, a very beautiful woman. b) if you accept or obey something without question, you do it without expressing any doubt about whether it is correct or necessary: Clara accepted his decision without question. 5 there is no question of something happening/somebody doing something used to say that there is no possibility of something happening: There is no question of the project being postponed. 6 in question a) the things, people etc in question are the ones that are being discussed: Where were you during the evening in question? b) if something is in question, there is doubt about it: I'm afraid his honesty is now in question. 7 be a question of something - used to say what the most important fact, part, or feature of something is: Dance is a question of control and creative expression. I would love to come, but it's a question of time. 8 it's just/only/simply a question of doing something - spoken used to say that what needs doing is easy or not complicated: It's just a question of putting in a couple of screws. 9 be out of the question - if something is out of the question, it is definitely not possible or not allowed: You can't go in that old shirt - it's out of the question. 10 (that's a) good question! spoken used to admit that you do not know the answer to a question: 'How can we afford this?' 'Good question!' 11 pop the question [informal] = to ask someone to marry you - used humorously VERB

Question [transitive] 1 to ask someone questions in order to get information about something, especially about a crime [ interrogate]: Two men have been arrested and questioned. question somebody about something She hates being questioned about her past. Joseph questioned the doctors closely (=asked them a lot of questions). 2 to have or express doubts about whether something is true, good, necessary etc question what/how/when etc Are you questioning what I'm saying? No one dared to question his decisions. question whether: One questions whether he's telling the truth. . questioning - a questioning look or expression shows that you have doubts about something or need some information: Mrs Carson gave Ruth a questioning look. question master [countable] -British English- the person who asks the questions in a quiz game on television or radio [= quizmaster] tag question [countable] technical = a question that is formed by adding a phrase such as 'can't we?', 'wouldn't he?', or 'is it?' to a sentence NOUN 1 variety of things/people [countable usually singular] a number of people or things that are all different, but are all of the same general type range of a range of services The drug is effective against a range of bacteria. wide/broad/whole/full range of something students from a wide range of backgrounds advice on a whole range of subjects narrow/limited range of something : A fairly narrow range of people are responsible for key decisions. 2 limits [countable] the limits within which amounts, quantities, ages etc vary age/price/temperature etc range toys suitable for children in the pre-school age range a temperature range of 72-85 in/within a ... range : Your blood pressure's well within the normal range. in the range (of) something to something a salary in the range of $25,000 to $30,000 Even the cheapest property was out of our price range (=too expensive for us).

range

3 products [countable] a set of similar products made by a particular company or available in a particular shop range of a new range of kitchenware A company from Darlington has just launched its latest range of fashion jewellery. The watches in this range are priced at 24.50. We have a very large product range. 4 distance a) [uncountable and countable]PMW the distance over which a particular weapon can hit things range of : missiles with a range of 3000 km within range (of something): We waited until the enemy was within range. out of/beyond range (of something) : I ducked down to get out of range of the gunshots. at close/short/point-blank range (=from very close): Both men had been shot at point-blank range. b) [uncountable and countable] the distance within which something can be seen or heard within range (of something) a handsome man who drew admiring glances from any female within range any spot within range of your radio signal out of/beyond range (of something) Joan hoped that the others were out of range of her mother's voice. One way to see birds at close range is to attract them into your own garden. c) [countable]TTA the distance which a vehicle such as an aircraft can travel before it needs more fuel etc range of The plane has a range of 3,600 miles. 5 music [countable usually singular]APM all the musical notes that a particular singer or musical instrument can make: His vocal range is amazing. 6 mountains/hills [countable]DNSG a group of mountains or hills, usually in a line: a land of high mountain ranges and deep valleys range of mountains/hills: the longest range of hills in the Lake District 7 place for shooting [countable]PMW an area of land where you can practise shooting or where weapons can be tested: a rifle range; the police shooting range 8 ability [uncountable and countable] the number of different things that someone, especially an actor or actress, does well: an actor of extraordinary range and intensity 9 land [uncountable and countable] American EnglishTA a large area of land covered with grass, on which cattle are kept

10 cooking [countable] a) American English a cooker b) British English a large piece of kitchen equipment in which you make a fire and use this heat to cook food [ stove]: a coal-fired kitchen range VERB 1 include [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] a) to include a variety of different things or people in addition to those mentioned range from something to something: The show had a massive audience, ranging from children to grandparents. b) if prices, levels, temperatures etc range from one amount to another, they include both those amounts and anything in between range from something to something : There were 120 students whose ages ranged from 10 to 18. range between something and something : The population of these cities ranges between 3 and 5 million. range in age/size/price etc: The shoes range in price from $25 to $100. 2 deal with many subjects [intransitive] to deal with a wide range of subjects or ideas in a book, speech, conversation etc range over The conversation had ranged over a variety of topics, from sport to current affairs. The discussion ranged widely. 3 move around [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] to move around in an area without aiming for a particular place [= wander] range over/through: Cattle ranged over the pastures in search of food. 4 range yourself with/against somebody/something - [formal] to publicly state your agreement with, or opposition to, a particular group's beliefs and ideas: individuals who had ranged themselves against the authorities 5 arrange [British English] [transitive always + adverb/preposition] formal to put things in a particular order or position: In the dining room, team photographs were ranged along the wall. mid-range [only before noun] = mid-range products and services are not the most expensive or the cheapest [ top-of-therange] top-of-the-range [British English]; top-of-the-line [American English] = a product that is top-of-the-range is the best of its kind: a top-of-the-range electric guitar refusal [uncountable and countable] = when you say firmly that you will not do, give, or accept something refusal to do something : His refusal to pay the fine got him into even more trouble. flat/blunt/point-blank refusal (=an immediate direct refusal): His request was met with a blunt refusal. refusal of : They couldn't understand her refusal of a scholarship to Yale.

refusal

regard

have/give somebody first refusal on something =to let someone decide whether to buy something before you offer to sell it to other people: I'll let you have first refusal on the car. NOUN 1admiration/respect[uncountable] respect and admiration for someone or something regard for Jan's regard for his great talent Burt had high regard for his old law professor, Dr. Finch (=he respected him a lot). The voters hold her in high regard (=respect or admire her). Teachers are held in low regard in this society (=are not respected or admired). 2 attention/consideration [uncountable] -formal - attention or consideration that is shown towards someone or something regard for: She has no regard for other people's feelings. pay/show regard: One must show proper regard for the law. little/no/scant regard (for somebody/something) The present administration has demonstrated little regard for environmental issues. All students must have access to quality education without regard to wealth or class. 3 with/in regard to something [formal] relating to a particular subject: US foreign policy with regard to Cuba 4 in this/that regard [formal] relating to something you have just mentioned: The company's problems, in this regard, are certainly not unique. 5 regards [plural] good wishes - used when sending your good wishes to someone or when ending a short letter or message: My husband sends his regards; Hope to see you soon. Regards, Chris (with) kind/best regards (=used to end a letter in a friendly but rather formal way) 6 [singular] literary a long look without moving your eyes VERB 1 [not in progressive] to think about someone or something in a particular way regard somebody/something as something Paul seemed to regard sex as sinful and immoral. Edith was widely regarded as (=considered by many people to be) eccentric. His work is highly regarded (=regarded as very good) by art experts. 2 formal to look at someone or something, in a particular way: She stood back and regarded him coldly. 3 as regards something [formal] relating to a particular subject - use this when you want to talk or write about a particular

subject: As regards a cure for the disease, very few advances have been made. regarding preposition- [ formal] =a word used especially in letters or speeches to introduce the subject you are writing or talking about [= concerning, with regard to]: Regarding your recent inquiry, I have enclosed a copy of our new brochure. VERB reply - past tense and past participle- replied, present participle- replying, third person singular - replies 1 [intransitive and transitive] to answer someone by saying or writing something: I asked Clive where he was going, but he didn't reply. Sorry it took me so long to reply. 'Did you see Simon today?' 'Of course,' Nathalie replied with a smile. reply to: Has Ian replied to your letter yet? reply that: Mills replied that he was staying at his parents' flat. 2 [intransitive] to react to an action by doing something else reply (to something) with something: The rebel troops replied to government threats with increased violence. NOUN reply plural replies [countable] 1 something that is said, written, or done as a way of replying [= answer]: I tried calling, but there was no reply. reply to: We still haven't received a reply to our letter; Stephen made no reply. 2 in reply (to something) [formal] as a way of replying to something: I am writing in reply to your letter of 1st June. 3 without reply [British English] = if a sports team gets a number of points or goals without reply, their opponents do not score reply-paid [British English] =a reply-paid envelope is one which you can send back to an organization without a stamp because they have already paid for this research [uncountable] also researches formal 1serious study of a subject, in order to discover new facts or test new ideas research into/on: research into the causes of cancer scientific/medical/historical etc research: a research team do/conduct/undertake research : I'm still doing research for my thesis. Gould was helped in his researches by local naturalists. 2 the activity of finding information about something that you are interested in or need to know about: It's a good idea to do some research before you buy a house. research [intransitive and transitive] 1 to study a subject in detail, especially in order to discover new facts or test new ideas [ investigate]: He's been researching material for a documentary.

reply

research

research into: Ten years ago I began researching into the role of women in trade unions. 2 to get all the necessary facts and information for something: This book has been very well researched. market research [uncountable]= a business activity which involves collecting information about what goods people buy and why they buy them: They had to conduct market research, then advertise the product. operational research, operations research [uncountable] = the study of the best ways to build and use machines or plan organizations NOUN 1 admiration [uncountable] when you admire someone, especially because of their personal qualities, knowledge, or skills [ admiration] respect for : I have the greatest respect for Jane's work. win/earn/gain the respect of somebody :She has earned the respect of her fellow athletes. He commands (=has and deserves) the respect of everyone in the profession. 2 consideration [uncountable] when you regard something or someone as important and are careful not to harm them, treat them rudely etc [ disrespect] respect for : Out of respect for the wishes of her family, the affair was not reported in the media. The boys showed a complete lack of respect for authority. with respect : Old people deserve to be treated with respect. 3 with (the greatest) respect/with (all) due respect spoken formal - say this before disagreeing with someone when you want to be polite: With respect, I think you're wrong. 4 for danger [singular,uncountable] a careful attitude towards something or someone that could be dangerous respect for: My fear turned into a respect for the sea. People should have a healthy respect for alcohol (=a sensible careful attitude towards it). 5 in one respect/in some respects etc -used to say that something is true in one way, in some ways etc: In many respects the new version is not as good as the old one. Mum is very stubborn, and Kim takes after her in that respect. 6 greetings respects [plural] formal polite greetings give/send your respects (to somebody) : Give my respects to your wife. pay your respects (to somebody) British English (=make a polite visit): I've come to pay my respects to Mrs O'Hara. 7 pay your last respects (to somebody) =to go to someone's funeral 8 in respect of something [formal] concerning or in relation to something: This is especially true in respect of the UK.

respect

9 with respect to something [formal] a) concerning or in relation to something: the freedom of a property owner to make a contract with respect to his property b) used to introduce a new subject, or to return to one that has already been mentioned: With respect to your request, I am not yet able to agree. VERB respect [transitive] 1 [not in progressive] to admire someone because they have high standards and good qualities such as fairness and honesty [ admire] respect somebody for (doing) something: She respected him for his honesty. I respect his views, although I do not agree with them. 2 to be careful not to do anything against someone's wishes, rights etc: She said she wanted to leave, and her father respected her wishes. I would like you to respect my privacy. the need to respect human rights 3 to not break a rule or law: The President is expected to respect the constitution. . respected = admired by many people because of your good work or achievements: He's one of the most respected managers in the game. highly/well/widely/greatly respected: a highly respected journalist respecting [formal] - about or relating to something: A discussion took place respecting the provision of science teaching self-respect [uncountable] =a feeling of being happy about your character, abilities, and beliefs [ self-esteem]: It's difficult to keep your self-respect when you have been unemployed for a long time. self-respecting [only before noun] = having respect for yourself and your abilities and beliefs no/any self-respecting ... would do something: No self-respecting actor would appear in a porn movie. 1 [uncountable and countable] something that is done as a reaction to something that has happened or been said response to: the public's response to our appeal for help in response to something: The law was passed in response to public pressure. positive/favourable/negative etc response : The exhibition has received a positive response from visitors. an emotional/angry response The decision provoked an angry response from residents. His immediate response was one of disbelief. Emmett's new exhibition has met with a favourable response from critics. 2 [countable] something that is said or written as a reply response to : 'Sure, why not?' was his response to all of Billie's suggestions. Carl made no response, and carried on with his

response

meal. in response (to something) :I am writing in response to your letter of June 12. Ronni merely groaned in response. rapid-response [only before noun] 1 relating to a person or group of people whose job is to react quickly to a dangerous or important situation, such as a military attack, and find a solution to the problem: rapid-response forces/team/unit etc 2 relating to something which allows someone to react quickly to information they have received: a rapid-response system NOUN 1 happening because of something [uncountable and countable] something that happens or exists because of something that happened before [ consequence] result of Accidents are the inevitable result of driving too fast. High unemployment is a direct result of the recession. end/final/net result (=the result at the end of a long process) The net result of all these changes is that schools should be able to deliver a better service to pupils. Growing plants from seed can produce disappointing results. With a little effort you should achieve the desired result. as a result (of something) : As a result of the pilots' strike, all flights have had to be cancelled. with the result that : Sara wasn't at school last week, with the result that she missed an important test. 2 sports/elections [countable] the final number of points, votes etc at the end of a competition, game, or election: The results will be announced at midnight; the football results result of : A lot depends on the result of this match. 3 scientific tests [countable] the answers that are produced by a scientific study or test: Results suggest that diet is very important. result of : Police are awaiting the results of a forensic examination. positive/negative/inconclusive results : The experiments gave positive results in all cases. 4 examinations [countable] British English = the mark you get in an examination [= grade American English] When do we get our exam results? 5 success [countable] the achievement of something: She certainly knows how to get results. For best results, always use fresh ingredients when you are cooking. 6business results [plural]BBBF the accounts of a business that show how successful it has been over a period of time, usually a year: British Airways has announced disappointing results for the first half of the year. 7 get a result[British English] informal= to win a victory in a sports match: They were lucky to get a result on Saturday.

result

risk

VERB result [intransitive] =if something results from something else, it is caused by it result from We are still dealing with problems resulting from errors made in the past. How would you cope with unemployment and the resulting loss of income? result in something [phrasal verb] = to make something happen [= cause]: an accident that resulted in the death of two passengers ............................................................................................... result [informal] Result! - said when you have just done something successfully end result [countable usually singular] =the final result of a process or activity: If tasks are too challenging, the end result is that learners are discouraged. NOUN 1 [uncountable and countable] the possibility that something bad, unpleasant, or dangerous may happen [= danger; gamble, chance] risk (that): There is a risk that the crisis may spread further. reduce/minimize the risk of something: Healthy eating can help reduce the risk of heart disease. increase the risk of something carry/pose a risk: The birds could pose a serious health risk for people who eat them. not be worth the risk: I never walk home alone at night - it's not worth the risk. high/low risk: Building work has a high risk of accident; a low-risk group for lung cancer increased/reduced risk (=a higher or lower risk than usual): an increased risk of skin cancer a real risk: things that pose a real risk to the future of mankind a calculated risk (=a risk you think will have a good result): It was a calculated risk to appoint a man without management experience to such a senior post. an element of risk (=some risk, but not much): There's an element of risk in any kind of investment. the risks involved in/associated with something: the risks associated with drug use risk factor: the risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome the benefits outweigh the risks: The benefits to patients who are taking the drug far outweigh the risks. 2 take a risk = to decide to do something even though you know it may have bad results: Isn't he taking a bit of a risk in coming here? take the risk of doing something I couldn't take the risk of leaving him alone even for a short time. Many people are willing to take that risk in order to protect their families. 3 [countable] something or someone that is likely to cause harm or danger risk to Polluted water supplies are a risk to public health. They didn't pose a significant risk to safety.

Meat from the infected animals is regarded as a serious health risk (=something likely to harm people's health). The tyre dump is a major fire risk (=something that could cause a dangerous fire). She's becoming a security risk (=someone who may tell important secrets to an enemy).

4 at risk in a situation where you may be harmed: We must stop these rumours; the firm's reputation is at risk. at risk from: Women are more at risk from the harmful effects of alcohol than men. at risk of : Their children are also at high risk of developing the disease. That would mean putting other children at risk. 5 run a risk = to be in a situation where there is a possibility that something bad could happen to you run the risk of doing something : Anyone travelling without a passport runs the risk of being arrested. 6 at the risk of doing something = used when you think that what you are going to say or do may have a bad result, may offend or annoy people etc: At the risk of sounding stupid, can I ask a question? Will they go ahead with their plans, even at the risk of offending the Americans? 7 at your own risk = if you do something at your own risk, you do it when you understand the possible dangers and have been warned about them: You can use it, but it's at your own risk. All personal belongings are left at the owner's risk. 8 [countable]= a person or business judged according to the danger involved in giving them insurance or lending them money good/bad/poor risk: Drivers under 21 are regarded as poor risks by insurance companies. VERB 1 to put something in a situation in which it could be lost, destroyed, or harmed [ gamble]: When children start smoking, they don't realize that they're risking their health. risk something to do something: He's prepared to risk everything to avoid this war. risk something on something You'd be crazy to risk your money on an investment like that! He risked his life helping others to escape. I'm not going to risk my neck (=risk my life) just to save a common criminal. Why risk life and limb (=risk your life and health) jumping out of a plane just to raise money for charity? 2 to get into a situation where something unpleasant may happen to you [ endanger] risk doing something: They may even risk losing their homes. risk defeat/death etc: He would prefer not to risk another embarrassing defeat. Some people are prepared to risk imprisonment for what they believe. risk being seen/caught/arrested etc: Workers who broke the strike risked being attacked when they left the factory. 3 to do something that you know may have dangerous or unpleasant results risk doing something

Are you prepared to risk traveling without an armed guard? She risked a glance back over her shoulder. You could slip out of school between classes, but I wouldn't risk it. . at-risk children/patients/groups etc people who need special care because they are likely to be in danger from violent parents, to become ill etc : at-risk register (=an official list of people in this situation) high-risk [only before noun] =involving a risk of death, injury, failure etc [ low-risk]: high-risk investments high-risk patients/groups etc cancer screening for women over 55 and other high-risk groups low-risk [usually before noun] - likely to be safe or without problems [ high-risk]: low-risk investments risk management [uncountable] 1 a system to prevent or reduce dangerous accidents or mistakes 2 technical the practice of managing investments in ways that produce as much profit as possible while limiting the danger of losses risk-taking [uncountable] =when people do things that involve risks in order to achieve something security risk [countable] 1 someone in a government or organization who you cannot trust with important secrets, because they might tell them to an enemy 2 a situation that could put people in danger: After the bomb threat, it was considered too much of a security risk to let the races go ahead. rule

NOUN 1 instruction [countable] an official instruction that says how things must be done or what is allowed, especially in a game,
organization, or job [ law, regulation] strict rule: The rules are less strict in the local county court. unwritten/unspoken rule (=an unofficial rule that everyone knows about): break a rule (=not obey a rule): If you break the rules, it just spoils the whole game. follow/obey/observe the rules: You have to follow the rules precisely in order to lose weight fast. comply with the rules (=obey the rules): her refusal to comply with the club rules bend/stretch the rules (=do something that is not normally allowed): We might be able to bend the rules just this one time. play by the rules (=do what is expected and agreed): The point of having the European Union is to make everybody play by the rules. against the rules (=not allowed): Is it against the rules to talk? under the rules (of something) (=according to a particular set of rules): Under the rules of the International Cycling union, an eight day delay is allowed. breach of the rules (=when someone does not obey the rules): It is not a crime, though it is a breach of stock market rules. rules are rules (=used when you are saying that a rule cannot be broken): Rules are rules and it's my duty to enforce them

rules and regulations: I'm sick of all their petty rules and regulations.

2 advice [countable] what you should do in a particular situation, or a statement about this: There are no hard and fast rules (=clear and definite rules) about what to wear to classes. rule of :There are two basic rules of survival; widespread acceptance of certain rules of conduct; One of these unwritten rules is that parents should play with their children; The rule is: if you feel any pain you should stop exercising immediately. 3 normal/usual [singular] something that is normal or usually true as a (general) rule As a general rule most students finish their coursework by the end of May. Early marriage used to be the rule in that part of the world. A series of payments used to be the exception rather than the rule. Unfortunately there is an exception to every rule. 4 government [uncountable] the government of a country or area by a particular group of people or using a particular system under ... rule:people living under communist rule, the end of colonial rule, a period of military rule, direct rule from Westminster, the restoration of majority rule (=government by the party that most people have voted for) to Northern Ireland 5 grammar/science etc [countable]SLG a statement about what is usually allowed in a particular system, such as the grammar of a language, or a science rule of : the rules of English punctuation 6 the rule of law = a situation in which the laws of a country are obeyed: We are here to uphold the rule of law. 7 the rules of natural justice what people believe to be right and fair: The governor failed to observe the rules of natural justice. 8 rule of thumb - a rough figure or method of calculation, based on practical experience: As a general rule of thumb, children this age should not spend more than one hour on homework. 9 make it a rule (to do something) to try to make sure that you always do something: I make it a rule never to mix business with pleasure. 10for measuring [countable] old-fashioned = a ruler VERB 1 government [intransitive and transitive] to have the official power to control a country and the people who live there [ govern]: Queen Victoria ruled England for 64 years. African tribal societies were traditionally ruled by a council of elders. rule over: Alexander the Great ruled over a huge empire. He announced that henceforth he would rule by decree (=make all the important decisions himself).

2 control/influence[transitive] if a feeling or desire rules someone, it has a powerful and controlling influence on their actions: the passion for power and success which rules her life 3 court/law [intransitive always + adverb/preposition, transitive]SCL to make an official decision about something, especially a legal problem [ decree] rule that : The judge ruled that she should have custody of the children. rule on : The Supreme Court has yet to rule on the case. rule in favour of/against somebody/something : The tribunal ruled in her favour. be ruled illegal/unlawful etc : This part of the bill was ruled unconstitutional. 4 rule the roost [Informal] to be the most powerful person in a group: His wife rules the roost in their house. 5 rule somebody/something with a rod of iron also rule somebody with an iron fist/hand = to control a group of people in a very severe way: Although he was a fair man, he ruled us with an iron fist. 6 somebody/something rules [informal] - used to say that the team, school, place etc mentioned is better than any other: Arsenal rules OK. British English ; graffiti saying 'Poheny High rules' 7 draw a line [transitive] to draw a line using a ruler or other straight edge: Rule a line under each answer. rule something/somebody out [phrasal verb] 1 to decide that something is not possible or suitable: The police have ruled out suicide. She has refused to rule out the possibility of singing again. 2 to make it impossible for something to happen: The mountainous terrain rules out most forms of agriculture. 3 to state that someone will not be able to take part in a sports event rule something/somebody out of : He has been ruled out of the match with a knee injury. ..................................................................................................................................................... ruling [countable] = an official decision, especially one made by a court ruling on : the recent Supreme Court ruling on defendants' rights ruling [only before noun] 1 the ruling group in a country or organization is the group that controls it: A ruling class clearly existed; the ruling body of American golf 2 a ruling interest or emotion interests someone more than anything else: Football remains the ruling passion of many men. gag rule [countable] = a rule or law that stops people from talking about a subject during a particular time or in a particular place golden rule [countable] a very important principle, way of behaving etc that should be remembered: The golden rule of cooking is to use fresh ingredients.

sense

ground rules [plural] = the basic rules or principles on which future actions or behaviour should be based lay down/establish ground rules for something Our book lays down the ground rules for building a patio successfully. home rule [uncountable] = the right of a country or area to have its own government and laws majority rule [uncountable] = a system of government in which every person in a country has the right to vote and the group which wins the most votes has power: It took many years of struggle to establish majority rule in South Africa. self-rule [uncountable] = when a country or part of a country is governed by its own citizens slide rule [countable] = an old-fashioned instrument used for calculating numbers, that looks like a ruler and has a middle part that slides across work-to-rule [singular] =a situation in which people in a particular job refuse to do any additional work as a protest [ strike] NOUN 1 [countable] a feeling about something sense of Afterwards I felt a great sense of relief. She has a strong sense of loyalty. A sense of panic has spread over the country. Employees need the sense of being appreciated. with a sense of something : He looked around the room with a sense of achievement. sense that :I had the sense that he was lying. a sense of occasion (=a feeling that an event is very special or important) : Everyone wants to create a sense of occasion at Christmas. 2 [singular] the ability to understand or judge something sense of humour British English /sense of humor American English (=the ability to understand and enjoy things that are funny) : I like Pam - she has a really good sense of humour. sense of direction (=the ability to judge which way you should be going, or what your aims should be) : It was dark and he had completely lost his sense of direction. sense of proportion (=the ability to judge what is important and what is not important) : Let's keep a sense of proportion, and not rush to any hasty conclusions. sense of justice/fairness : Kids have a natural sense of justice. dress/clothes sense (=the ability to judge which clothes look good) 3 [countable] one of the five natural powers of sight, hearing, feeling, taste, and smell, that give us information about the things around us sense of smell/taste/touch etc : She has a good sense of smell. Cats have a very acute sense of hearing (=very good, so that they can hear even the smallest sound). Combinations of flavors, textures, and colour that can delight the senses. the five senses (=all of the senses) 4 [uncountable] when someone makes sensible or practical decisions, or behaves in a sensible, practical way have the sense to do something (=behave in a sensible way and do what is best in that situation) : You should have had the

sense to turn off the electricity first. there is no sense in (doing) something spoken (=it is not sensible to do something) : There's no sense in getting upset about it now. see sense (=realize what is the sensible thing to do) : I wish the politicians would see sense and stop the war. talk/knock some sense into somebody (=try to make someone behave in a more sensible way) 5 make sense a) to have a clear meaning and be easy to understand: Read this and tell me if it makes sense. b) to be a sensible thing to do -it makes sense (for somebody) to do something It makes sense to save money while you can. Would it make sense for the city authorities to further restrict parking? c) if something makes sense, there seems to be a good reason or explanation for it: Why did she do a thing like that? It doesn't seem to make sense. 6 make (some) sense of something to understand something, especially something difficult or complicated: Can you make any sense of this article? 7 [countable] the meaning of a word, sentence, phrase etc: The word 'record' has several different senses. Any alteration would spoil the sense of the entire poem. 8 [countable] a way in which something can be true or real in a sense/in one sense/in some senses etc (=in one way, in some ways etc) What he says is right in a sense. The hotel was in no sense (=not at all) comfortable. George was a big man in every sense of the word (=in every way). This is true in a general sense. Communication, in any real sense (=of any real kind), was extremely limited. in a (very) real sense (=used to emphasize that a statement or description is true) : A head of a school is a manager in a very real sense. 9 your/her etc senses someone's ability to think clearly and behave sensibly - used in some expressions when you think that someone has lost this ability come to your senses One day he'll come to his senses and see what a fool he's been (=to start to think clearly and behave sensibly again). See if you can bring her to her senses. (=make someone think clearly and behave sensibly) be out of your senses (=have lost the ability to think clearly and behave sensibly): Are you completely out of your senses? 10 talk sense spoken to say things that are reasonable or sensible - often used when you think someone has just said something

silly: Talk sense! There's no way we can afford a new car! 11 regain your senses =old-fashioned = to stop feeling faint or slightly sick VERB sense [transitive] 1 if you sense something, you feel that it exists or is true, without being told or having proof: Perhaps he sensed your distrust. sense (that): I could sense that something was wrong. sense what/how/who etc: Hugo had already sensed how unhappy she was. sense danger/trouble: If a prairie dog senses danger, he whistles a warning. 2 if a machine senses something, it discovers and records it: an electronic device used for sensing intruders

common sense [uncountable] = the ability to behave in a sensible way and make practical decisions: Use your common sense for once! a common-sense approach to education good sense [uncountable] =the quality someone has when they are able to make sensible decisions about what to do: Mrs Booth showed a lot of good sense. have the good sense to do something: Mark had the good sense not to argue. It makes good sense (=is sensible) to do some research before buying. NOUN setting [countable] 1 the place where something is or where something happens, and the general environment beautiful/perfect/magnificent/idyllic setting : an old farmhouse in a beautiful setting setting for Cyprus is the perfect setting for a beach holiday. I've worked with children in various settings, mainly in secondary school. 2 the place or time where the events in a book, film etc happen setting for :Verona is best known as the setting for two of Shakespeare's plays. The island was used by Dickens as the setting for Oliver Twist. 3 the position in which you put the controls on a machine or instrument: The heating system was already on its highest setting. 4 the metal that holds a stone in a piece of jewellery, or the way the stone is fixed in a ... setting: a diamond ring in a gold setting 5 music that is written to go with a poem, prayer etc sight 6 the setting of the sun literary= the time when the sun goes down NOUN

setting

1 ability to see [uncountable] the physical ability to see [= vision]: Anne's sight is very good for someone of her age. He began to lose his sight six years ago. an emergency operation to save his sight You will get a free sight test if you are under 16. 2 act of seeing [singular, uncountable] the act of seeing something sight of: Just the sight of him made her go all weak. at the sight of something Marcie will faint at the sight of blood. The house is hidden from sight behind trees. 3 thing you see [countable] a) something you can see familiar/common/rare etc sight : Street dentists are a common sight in Pakistan; As he reached the front door he saw a strange sight; the sights and sounds of the forest b) the sights [plural] famous or interesting places that tourists visit: In the afternoon, you'll have a chance to relax or see the sights. the sights of : So, Maria's showing you the sights of Copenhagen, is she? 4in/within sight a) inside the area that you can see: I glanced around me quickly. There was no one in sight. They burned every house in sight. The boys get home and eat everything in sight. Since my hotel was within sight, I told him he could go. b) likely to happen soon: Six months from the start of the strike, there is still no end in sight. Peace is now in sight. 5 within/in sight of something a) in the area where you can see something: We camped within sight of the lake. At last they came in sight of the city. b) in a position where you will soon be able to get something or achieve something: Dan was now within sight of the championship. 6 in your sights - if you have someone or something in your sights, you intend to achieve it or get it for yourself or to attack

them have somebody/something in your sights : Rogers had victory firmly in his sights. 7 out of sight = outside the area that you can see: Karen waved until the car was out of sight. 8 out of sight, out of mind = used to say that people soon stop thinking about other people if they do not see them for a while 9 disappear/vanish from sight = to disappear: 'Will she be all right?' asked Jen as the car disappeared from sight. 10 come into sight = to appear: when the ship at last came into sight 11 on sight as soon as you see someone: The army has been ordered to shoot rebel soldiers on sight. Jo disliked him on sight. 12 not let somebody out of your sight to make sure that someone stays near you: Since the accident, Donna hasn't let the children out of her sight. 13 be sick of/can't stand/hate the sight of somebody/something = to dislike someone or something very much: Alan and Sam can't stand the sight of each other. Everybody hates the sight of you. 14 a sight for sore eyes spoken a) someone or something that you feel very happy to see b) British English someone or something that is very unattractive or very funny to look at 15 a (damn/darned/darn) sight more/better etc [informal] a lot more, a lot better etc: I know the place a damn sight better than you do. The old lady is a sight cleverer than Sarah. 16 be a sight - also look a sight to look very funny or stupid, or very untidy or unpleasant: We'd had an all-night party, and the place looked a bit of a sight. 17 sight unseen = if you buy or choose something sight unseen, you do it without looking at the thing first: I can't believe you would rent a place sight unseen. 18 be a (beautiful, strange, frightening etc) sight to behold [formal] - used to emphasize that something or someone looks very unusual, for example because they are very beautiful, strange, or frightening: His garden was a sight to behold. His face was not a pleasant sight to behold. 19 gun [countable usually plural]PMW the part of a gun or other weapon that guides your eye when you are aiming at something VERB

sight [transitive] = to see something from a long distance away, or see something you have been looking for: The sailors gave a shout of joy when they sighted land. Several rare birds have been sighted in the area. sighted =someone who is sighted can see, and is not blind: Blind and sighted children are taught in the same classroom. her partially sighted (=having limited ability to see) father sighting [countable] =an occasion on which something is seen, especially something rare or something that people are hoping to see sighting of: There were two unconfirmed sightings of UFOs in the area. Where was the latest sighting? clear-sighted =able to understand a problem or situation well: a clear-sighted analysis far-sighted 1 far-sighted people, ideas, or plans are wise because they show an understanding of what will happen in the future: far-sighted investments; a far-sighted politician 2 especially American English able to see or read things clearly only when they are far away from you [ short-sighted; = longsighted BrE] long-sighted [British English] =able to see objects or read things clearly only when they are far from your eyes [ short-sighted; = far-sighted AmE] partially sighted = unable to see well [ blind]: Reading aids have been provided for partially sighted pupils. second sight [uncountable]= the ability to know what will happen in the future, or to know about things that are happening somewhere else, that some people claim to have short-sighted 1 especially British EnglishMI unable to see objects clearly unless they are very close [= nearsighted American English; longsighted] 2 not considering the possible effects in the future of something that seems good now - used to show disapproval [ far-sighted]: a short-sighted policy of reducing investment in training Thanks to the government's short-sightedness, our hospitals are very short of cash. sight-read past tense and past participle sight-read [intransitive and transitive] = to play or sing written music when you look at it for the first time, without practising it first [uncountable and countable] =an ability to do something well, especially because you have learned and practised it [ talent]: Reading and writing are two different skills. Many jobs today require computer skills. skill in/at : He was valued for his skill in raising money for the company. develop/acquire/learn a skill : opportunities to acquire new skills with skill : The whole team played with great skill and determination. technical/management/practical etc skill - the kinds of communication skills required of teachers -Students need to possess certain basic skills by the time they finish school. 1 an opinion that is stated publicly [= stand]

skill

stance

stance on: What is your stance on environmental issues? stance against: a strong stance against abortion take/adopt a stance: The President has adopted a tough stance on terrorism. start 2 a position in which you stand, especially when playing a sport: a fighting stance VERB 1 begin doing something [intransitive and transitive] to do something that you were not doing before, and continue doing it [= begin]: There's so much to do, I don't know where to start. Have you started your homework? start doing something : Then the baby started crying. start to do something :It's starting to rain. He got up and started running again. I'd better get started (=start doing something) soon. start somebody doing something: What Kerry said started me thinking (=made me start thinking). 2begin happening [intransitive and transitive] also start off to begin happening, or to make something begin happening: What time does the film start? Lightning started a fire that burned 500 acres. The party was just getting started when Sara arrived. starting (from) now/tomorrow/next week etc: You have two hours to complete the test, starting now. 3 begin in a particular way [intransitive always + adverb/preposition, transitive] also start off to begin something in a particular way, or to begin in a particular way: A healthy breakfast is a good way to start the day. start with : The festivities started with a huge fireworks display. start as : The restaurant started as a small takeout place. start badly/well/slowly etc: Any new exercise program should start slowly. start (something) by doing something: Chao starts by explaining some basic legal concepts. 4 business/organization [transitive] also start up to make something begin to exist start a business/company/firm etc: She wanted to start her own catering business. 5 job/school [intransitive and transitive] to begin a new job, or to begin going to school, college etc: When can you start? start school/college/work : I started college last week. 6 car/engine etc [intransitive and transitive] also start up if you start a car or engine, or if it starts, it begins to work: The car wouldn't start this morning. get the car/engine etc started He couldn't get his motorbike started. 7 begin going somewhere [intransitive] also start off/outTT to begin travelling or moving in a particular direction [= set out]: We'll have to start early to get there by lunchtime. 8 life/profession[intransitive always + adverb/preposition, transitive] also start off/out to begin your life or profession in a particular way or place start as/in : She started as a dancer in the 1950s. It's difficult for new lawyers to get started in private practice.

9 road/river/path etc [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] if a river, road, path etc starts somewhere, it begins in that place: The trail starts immediately behind the hotel. start in/at: The race will start at the town hall. 10 prices/amounts [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] if prices, amounts, or rates start at or from a particular number, that is the lowest number at which you can get or buy something start at/from: Room prices start from 25 a night. 11 start from scratch/zero = to begin doing a job or activity completely from the beginning: There were no textbooks, so the teachers had to start from scratch. 12 deliberately begin something [transitive] to deliberately make something start happening, especially something bad: I started a fire to warm the place up. start a fight/argument Oh, don't go trying to start an argument. Other girls were starting rumours about me. 13 to start with spoken a) said when talking about the beginning of a situation, especially when it changes later: I was pretty nervous to start with, but after a while I was fine. b) said to emphasize the first of a list of facts or opinions you are stating: There are problems. To start with, neither of us likes housework. 14 be back where you started = to try to do something and fail, so that you finish in the same situation that you were in before: A lot of people who lose weight gain it back over time, and end up back where they started. 15 sports [intransitive and transitive] if a player starts in a game, or if someone starts them, they begin playing when the game begins, especially because they are one of the best players on the team start for: Astacio started for the Dodgers on Tuesday night. 16 start a family = to have your first baby: We're not ready to start a family yet. 17 start afresh/anew= to stop doing what you are doing and begin doing it again in a better or different way: She saw her new job as a chance to start afresh. 18 somebody started it! spoken - used to say that someone else has caused an argument or problem: 'Don't hit her!' 'But she started it!' 19 start something/anything = to begin causing trouble: It looks like Jess is trying to start something. 20 move suddenly [intransitive] to move your body suddenly, especially because you are surprised or afraid [= jump]: A loud knock at the door made her start.

start from: Emma started from her chair and rushed to the window. 21 start young = to begin doing something when you are young, especially when it is unusual to do it: Woods started young, and was coached by his father. 22 Don't (you) start! [British English] = spoken used to tell someone to stop complaining, arguing, or annoying you: 'Mum, I don't like this ice-cream.' 'Oh, don't you start!' start back [phrasal verb] = to begin returning to the place you came from start back to/down/up etc : I started back down the mountain to camp. start in [phrasal verb] 1 to begin doing something, especially with a lot of effort: I decided to just start in and see what I could do. start in on : Lilly started in on her burger. 2 to begin criticizing someone or complaining to them about something start in on : Mom turned away from Rose and started in on me. start off [phrasal verb] 1 to begin something in a particular way, or to begin in a particular way start something off with something/by doing something: The theater company started off their new season with a Shakespeare play. start off with something/by doing something : I started off by drawing the flowers I had collected. 2 to be a particular thing or have a particular quality at the beginning of something, especially when this changes later: The puppies start off white, and get their black spots later. start off as The games start off as a social event, but players soon become competitive. I started off as a drummer. 3 start something off = to make something begin happening: We're not sure what starts the process off. 4start somebody off = to help someone begin an activity start somebody off with :He started me off with some stretching exercises.

5 to begin going somewhere: I sat in the car for a few minutes before starting off. start off to/towards/back etc: She started off to school in her new uniform. 6 start somebody off [British English informal] to make someone get angry or start laughing, by saying something: Don't say that; that'll just start him off. start somebody off doing something: He made her jump, and that started her off giggling. start on somebody/something [phrasal verb] 1 to begin doing something or using something: You'd better start on your homework. 2 start somebody on something = to make someone start doing something regularly, especially because it will be good for them: Try starting your baby on solid foods at four months old. 3 British English informal to begin criticizing someone or complaining to them about something start on somebody/something at : Ray's wife started on at him about spending too much time in the pub. start out [phrasal verb] 1 to begin happening or existing in a particular way, especially when this changes later start out as 'The Star' started out as a small weekly newspaper. The leaves start out a pale green, and later get darker. 2 to begin your life or profession, or an important period of time: When the band first started out, they played at small clubs. start out as : She started out as a model. start out on : young couples starting out on their life together 3 to begin going somewhere: Oliver started out at five, when it was still dark. start over [phrasal verb] =to start doing something again from the beginning, especially because you want to do it better: If you make a mistake, just erase it and start over. start up [phrasal verb] 1 if you start up a business, company etc, or it starts up, it begins to exist: Tax breaks help new companies start up. start sth up :Jordan started up a band of his own. 2 if an engine, car etc starts up, or you start it up, it begins working: The driver got back into the car and started up.

start sth up : Rory started up the engine and got the vehicle moving. 3 if a sound, activity, or event starts up, it begins to exist or happen: The crickets had started up now that it was evening. NOUN 1 of an activity/event [countable usually singular] the first part of an activity or event, or the point at which it begins to develop start of : We arrived late and missed the start of the film. (right) from the start: We've had problems with this project right from the start. She read the letter from start to finish without looking up. get off to a good/bad etc start : a free bottle of wine to get your holiday off to a great start (=begin well or badly) a rocky/shaky/slow etc start (=a bad beginning) : After a rocky start, the show is now very popular. He wanted an early start on his election campaign. 2 of a period of time [countable usually singular] the first part of a particular period of time [= beginning] start of : Since the start of 1992, the company has doubled in size. the start of the year/day/season : the start of an election year get off to a good/bad etc start (=begin well or badly) : The day got off to a bad start when I missed the train. 3 make a start (on something) = to begin doing something: I'll make a start on the washing-up. 4 sudden movement [singular] a sudden movement of your body, usually caused by fear or surprise with a start :Ted woke up with a start and felt for the light switch. She said his name and Tom gave a start (=made a sudden movement). 5 good/better/healthy etc start (in life) =if you have a good etc start, you have all the advantages or opportunities that your situation, your parents etc could provide to help you succeed: Good health care for the mother before birth gives babies a healthy start. Naturally we want to give our kids the best possible start in life. 6 where race begins the start =the place where a race begins: The horses were all lined up at the start. 7 being ahead [countable usually singular] the amount of time or distance by which one person is ahead of another, especially in a race or competition start on : The prisoners had a three-hour start on their pursuers. 8 for a start [British English] informal = used to emphasize the first of a list of facts or opinions you are stating: Well, for a start, the weather was horrible. 9 be a start spoken = used to say that something you have achieved may not be impressive, but it will help with a bigger achievement: One exercise class a week isn't enough, but it's a start.

10 joba) [countable usually singular] the beginning of someone's job, which they will develop in the future, especially a job that involves acting, writing, painting etc: Pacino got his start on the stage, before his success in films. I gave you your start, so remember me when you win the Pulitzer Prize. b) [countable usually plural] a job that has just started, a business that has just been started, or someone who has just started a new job: The number of business starts plummeted 10.5% during the second half of the year; a training course for new starts 11 starts also housing starts [plural] technical when people begin to build a number of new houses 12 sport [countable usually plural] a) a race or competition that someone has taken part in: The horse Exotic Wood was unbeaten in five starts. b) an occasion when a player plays when a sports match begins: Jackson played in 353 games, with 314 starts. false start [countable] 1 an unsuccessful attempt to begin a process or event: After several false starts, the concert finally began. 2 a situation at the beginning of a race when one competitor starts too soon and the race has to start again start-up [only before noun] connected with starting a new business: start-up costs start-up [countable] =a new small company or business, especially one whose work involves computers or the Internet: an Internet start-up 1 physical [uncountable] the physical power and energy that makes someone strong [ weakness] have/find the strength to do something She didn't even have the strength to stand up. I'm trying to build up my strength. Jo hit him with all her strength. He never ceased to be amazed by her physical strength. 2 determination [uncountable] the quality of being brave or determined in dealing with difficult or unpleasant situations have/find the strength to do something: Jenny didn't have the strength to end the relationship. She had enormous strength of character (=strong ability to deal with difficult situations). strength of mind/purpose: The sea was very cold and it required great strength of mind to get in. I think you have to find an inner strength in order to feel good about yourself. 3 feeling/belief [uncountable] how strong a feeling, belief, or relationship is [= depth] strength of: Governments cannot ignore the strength of public opinion. We understand the strength of feeling against the proposal. 4 organization/country etc [uncountable] the political, military, or economic power of an organization, country, or system strength of: the strength of the US economy; The socialists organized a show of strength (=when a country or organization shows how strong it is). 5 useful quality or ability [countable] a particular quality or ability that gives someone or something an advantage

strength

[ weakness]: Her main strength is her critical thinking ability. strength of The great strength of our plan lies in its simplicity. Be aware of your own strengths and weaknesses. 6 object [uncountable] how strong an object or structure is, especially its ability to last for a long time without breaking [ weakness] strength of : a device for testing the strength of concrete structures 7substance/mixture [uncountable and countable] how strong a substance or mixture is: Add water to dilute the solution to the required strength. full-strength/half-strength/double-strength etc : Young plants can be fed with half-strength liquid fertilizer. 8 number of people [uncountable] the number of people in a team, army etc: The Edinburgh team are now at full strength. below strength : The police force is below strength at the moment (=there are fewer police than there should be). in strength : Security forces were out in strength (=in large numbers) but did not intervene. 9 money [uncountable] the value of a country's money when compared to other countries' money strength of : the strength of the dollar on the international money markets 10 on the strength of something = because of something: I bought the book on the strength of your recommendation. 11 position of strength = a position where you have an advantage over someone, especially in a discussion: We must negotiate from a position of strength. 12 go from strength to strength = to become more and more successful: For several years the business went from strength to strength. 13 natural force [uncountable] = how strong a natural force is: the strength of the sunlight 14 colour/light/flavour/smell etc [uncountable] = how strong a colour, taste etc is 15 give me strength spoken - used when you are annoyed or angry about something 16 not know your own strength = to not realize how strong you are .. industrial-strength = an industrial-strength substance is very strong - often used humorously: They served us industrialstrength coffee. tensile strength [uncountable] technical = the ability of steel or concrete etc to bear pressure or weight without breaking 1 when you achieve what you want or intend [ failure] be a big/huge/great etc success : The experiment was a big success. without success : I tried to contact him, but without success; What's the secret of your success?; Their efforts finally met with some success (=they were successful); I didn't think my chances of success were very good; She puts her success down

success

to good luck (=says it is caused by good luck). success in doing something: Did you have any success in persuading Alan to come? 2 when a lot of people like something, buy something, go to see something etc [ failure] be a big/huge/great etc success: The film was a great success; Her book has enjoyed a lot of success (=it has been very successful); The play was a box-office success (=many people went to see it); The show was an overnight success (=it was immediately successful). 3 when someone achieves a high position in their job, course, sport, in society etc [ failure]: Success isn't everything, you know. success in: He has already had a lot of success in his career. be a success as a ... (=be successful in a particular job): She wasn't much of a success as a lawyer. She's determined to make a success of (=be successful in) her career. 4 when a business makes a lot of money [ failure]: the success of his latest business venture be a big/huge/great etc success: The firm wasn't a great success. talk 5 success story - someone or something that is successful: The company has been a major success story. VERB 1 conversation [intransitive] to say things to someone as part of a conversation: I could hear Sarah and Andy talking in the next room. talk about: English people love to talk about the weather; All through the afternoon, they sat and talked about their trip. talk to: She spent a long time talking to him; She's very easy to talk to. talk with: I got the truth from talking with Elena. talk together; They were talking together in the hall; Sue and Bob still aren't talking (=are refusing to talk to each other). talk in a low voice/a whisper etc : They were talking in low voices, and I couldn't catch what they were saying. talk of (=used especially in formal or literary contexts): We talked of old times. 2 serious subject [intransitive] to discuss something serious or important with someone: Joe, we need to talk. Is there somewhere we can talk in private? talk to: You should talk to a lawyer. talk about: We've been talking about getting married. talk with: Parents should talk with their children about drug abuse. talk sport/politics/business etc: 'Let's not talk politics now,' said Hugh impatiently. 3 say words [intransitive] to produce words and express thoughts, opinions, ideas etc: She was talking so fast I could hardly understand her. How do babies learn to talk? Some residents were frightened to talk publicly. talk (in) French/German etc :They started talking in Spanish. Don't let Dad hear you talking like that (=expressing things in a particular way). 4 a speech [intransitive] to give a speech talk on/about : Professor Davis will talk about 'Trends in Network Computing'.

5 secret information [intransitive] if someone who has secret information talks, they tell someone else about it: Even under torture, Maskell refused to talk. He tried to stop his ex-wife from talking on live TV. We should stop meeting like this. People will talk. 6 talk sense/rubbish/nonsense etc = especially British English spoken used to say that you think someone is saying something sensible, something stupid etc: You do talk rubbish sometimes, Jules. 7 talk (some) sense into somebody = to persuade someone to behave sensibly: She hoped Father McCormack would be able to talk some sense into her son. 8 talk to yourself = to say your thoughts out loud: 'What did you say?' 'Sorry, I was just talking to myself.' 9 know what you are talking about spoken = to know a lot about a particular subject: I worked in hotels for years, so I know what I'm talking about. 10 talk the hind leg(s) off a donkey informal = to talk a lot, especially about unimportant things 11 talk about lazy/cheap/hungry etc spoken - used to emphasize that someone or something is very lazy, cheap, hungry etc: Talk about lucky. That's the second time he's won this week! 12 talking of/about something spoken - used to say more about a subject that someone has just mentioned: Talking of Venice, have you seen the masks I bought there last year? 13 what are you talking about? spoken - used when you think what someone has said is stupid or wrong: What are you talking about? We got there in plenty of time. 14 I'm talking to you! spoken = used when you are angry that the person you are talking to is not paying attention: Rob! I'm talking to you! 15 be like talking to a brick wall spoken = used to say that it is annoying to speak to someone because they do not pay attention to you 16 talk somebody's ear off [American English] spoken to talk too much to someone 17 talk trash n[American English] informal = to say rude or offensive things to or about someone, especially to opponents in a sports competition: Both teams were talking trash on the court. 18 talk the talk [American English informal] to say the things that people expect or think are necessary in a particular situation: She didn't talk the talk of feminism, but her career was the most important thing in her life.

19 I'm/we're/you're talking (about) something spoken used in conversation to emphasize a fact or remind someone of it: I'm not talking about ancient history, I'm talking about last season's performance. 20 now you're talking spoken = used to say that you think someone's suggestion is a good idea: 'Fancy an ice cream?' 'Now you're talking.' 21 look who's talking = also you're a fine one to talk, you can talk spoken used to tell someone they should not criticize someone else's behaviour because their own behaviour is just as bad: 'Peggy shouldn't smoke so much.' 'Look who's talking!' 22 we're/you're talking 500/three days etc spoken used to tell someone how much something will cost, how long something will take to do etc: To do a proper job, you're talking 750 minimum. 23 talk your way out of something informal = to escape from an bad or embarrassing situation by giving explanations, excuses etc: She's good at talking her way out of trouble. 24 talk nineteen to the dozen [British English] = informal talk a blue streak American English to talk very quickly without stopping 25 talk in riddles = to deliberately talk in a strange and confusing way: Stop talking in riddles and explain what's going on. 26 talk tough (on something) informal = to give people your opinions very strongly: The President is talking tough on crime. 27 talk shop = if people talk shop, they talk about their work when there are people present who are not interested or involved in it - used to show disapproval: Are you two going to talk shop all night? 28 talk dirty (to somebody) = informal to talk in a sexual way to someone in order to make them feel sexually excited 29 be talking through your hat [British English] informal if someone is talking through their hat, they say stupid things about something that they do not understand 30 talk smack [American English] informal = to criticize someone or something in an unpleasant way 31 talk to the hand [spoken informal] = used to tell someone rudely that you do not want to listen to anything he or she is going to say to you. When people use this expression, they also usually turn their face away from the other person and hold the palm of their hand out towards them. talk around/round [phrasal verb] 1 talk somebody around/round = to persuade someone to change their opinion about something: Leave Betty to me. I'll soon talk her round.

2 talk around/round something = to discuss a problem without really dealing with the important parts of it: They had spent half the night talking round the subject. talk back [phrasal verb] = to answer someone in authority such as a teacher or parent in a rude or impolite way talk somebody/something down [phrasal verb] 1 British English - to make something seem less successful, interesting, good etc than it really is: the pessimists who are talking down Britain 2 to help a pilot land an aircraft by giving them instructions from the ground by radio talk down to somebody [phrasal verb] = to talk to someone as if they are stupid, although they are not [= patronize]: The students felt that they were talked down to as though they were children. talk somebody into something [phrasal verb] = to persuade someone to do something talk somebody into doing something : My husband talked me into going skiing. talk something out [phrasal verb] 1 to discuss a problem thoroughly in order to solve it: We need to spend a little time talking this out. talk something out with : It might help if you talked it out with Dad. 2 British English if politicians talk out a proposal, they talk about it for a long time deliberately so that there will not be enough time to vote on it [= filibuster]: The Land Protection Bill was talked out by MPs from rural areas. talk somebody out of something [phrasal verb] = to persuade someone not to do something talk somebody out of doing something : Can't you talk them out of selling the house? talk something over [phrasal verb] = to discuss a problem with someone before deciding what to do talk something over with : Talk over any worries with your GP. talk through something [phrasal verb] 1 talk something through = to discuss something thoroughly so that you are sure you understand it: Allow time to talk

through any areas of difficulty. 2 talk somebody through something = to help someone understand a process, method etc by explaining it to them carefully before they use it: Trevor talked me through loading the software. talk something up [phrasal verb] = to make something appear more important, interesting, successful etc than it really is: Jones talked up the idea at the meeting.

NOUN 1conversation [countable] a conversation: After a long talk, we decided on divorce; John, I'd like to have a talk with you. talk about : We must have a talk about money. 2 discussion talks [plural] formal = discussions between governments, organizations etc peace/trade etc talks: The peace talks look promising; The president held talks with Chinese officials. talks with : Talks with the rebels have failed. 3 speech [countable] a speech: an entertaining talk talk on/about : a talk on local history give/do/deliver a talk : Dr. Howard will give a talk on herbal medicine. 4news [uncountable] information or news that people talk about and hear about a lot, but that is not official talk of : Tickets sold so quickly there's talk of a second concert. talk of doing something : the administration's talk of reducing weapons talk that : There's talk that she's difficult to work with. just/only talk : It's just talk. He'll never do it. 5 type of conversation [uncountable] type of conversation: That's enough of that kind of talk; persuasive sales talk ;That's fighting talk (=brave and confident words) from Italy's manager. 6 be all talk spoken = someone who is all talk talks a lot about what they intend to do, but never actually does it 7 be the talk of the town/Paris etc = someone who is the talk of the town has done something bad, shocking, exciting etc and everyone is talking about them: She's the talk of London's theatre-goers since her last performance. 8 talk is cheap =used to say that you do not believe someone will do what they say . double-talk [uncountable] =speech that is complicated and can have more than one meaning, sometimes used deliberately to deceive or confuse people [= double-speak British English]: legal double-talk pep talk [countable] = informal a short speech intended to encourage someone to work harder, win a game etc: Alam gave the

task

Pakistani team a pep talk. talking head [countable]informal = someone on television who talks directly to the camera, especially to give their opinions talking point [countable] [British English] = a subject that a lot of people want to talk about smooth-talking = a smooth-talking person is good at persuading people and saying nice things, but you do not trust them: a smooth-talking salesman small talk [uncountable] = polite friendly conversation about unimportant subjects: We stood around making small talk. 1 a piece of work that must be done, especially one that is difficult or unpleasant or that must be done regularly [= job m]: have the task of doing something: Sara had the task of preparing the agenda for eetings. set/give somebody a task: I was given the task of building a fire. carry out/perform/do a task: the skills required to carry out these tasks take on/undertake a task: He soon realized the scale of the task he had undertake somebody's first/main task: Our first task is to gather information. a simple task: Monkeys can be taught to do simple tasks. a difficult/impossible/formidable task: an unenviable task (=an unpleasant, boring, or difficult job): They have the unenviable task of supervising the most dangerous prison in the country. a thankless task (=a boring but necessary job): Volunteers had the thankless task of distributing campaign leaflets. not an easy task/no easy task (=difficult): Trying to bring up a small daughter on your own is no easy task. 2 take someone to task = to strongly criticize somebody for something they have done take someone to task for : He was taken to task for not reporting the problem earlier. VERB task [transitive usually passive] =to give someone the responsibility for doing something be tasked with (doing) something: We were tasked with completing the job by the end of 2006. task force [countable] 1 a group formed for a short time to deal with a particular problem task force on:a task force on health care reform

term

2 a military force sent to a place for a special purpose NOUN 1 in terms of something = if you explain or describe something in terms of a particular fact or event, you are explaining or describing it only in relation to that fact or event describe/measure/evaluate etc something in terms of something Femininity is still defined in terms of beauty. It's a mistake to think of Florida only in terms of its tourist attractions. It's too early to start talking in terms of casualties.

in terms of what/how/who etc: Did the experiment find any differences in terms of what children learned? 2 in general/practical/financial etc terms =used to show that you are describing or considering a subject in a particular way or from a particular point of view in general/broad/simple etc terms We explain in simple terms what the treatment involves. It would be wrong to describe society purely in economic terms. The war, although successful in military terms, left the economy in ruins. What do these statistics mean in human terms? in somebody's terms: In our terms, the scheme has not been a success. in real/absolute terms (=accurate, true, or including any related changes): Rail fares have fallen 17 per cent in real terms. in relative terms (=compared with other, similar things): Students have less money in relative terms, but spend more on books. 3 word [countable] a word or expression with a particular meaning, especially one that is used for a specific subject or type of language term for: 'Multimedia' is the term for any technique combining sounds and images. legal/medical/technical term Many legal terms have more than one meaning. photographs, or to use the technical term, 'half-tones' It was he who coined (=invented) the term 'anorexia'. term of abuse/endearment/respect etc (=rude, loving, respectful etc language) : The word 'communist' had become a term of abuse. in strong/glowing/forthright etc terms (=showing a strong etc emotion or attitude) I complained to the manager in the strongest possible terms. His reply was couched in sinister terms. in no uncertain terms (=language that is very clear and angry) : Journalists were told, in no uncertain terms, that they were not welcome. 4 period of time [countable] a fixed period of time during which someone does something or something happens term in office (=the time someone spends doing an important job in government): It was always clear that Schmidt's third term in office would prove a difficult one. term of : the maximum term of imprisonment; The lease runs for a term of 99 years. prison/jail term: The men each received a 30-year prison term. fixed/long/short term a fixed-term contract In the long term, alcohol causes high blood pressure. Dad loaned us his car for the short term.

5 school/university [uncountable and countable] British EnglishSE one of the three periods of time that the school or university year is divided into [ half-term] summer/autumn/spring term The exams are at the end of the summer term. Teachers often feel overworked in term time (=during the term). first/last day of term : that all-important first day of term ! At a British school or university, the year is divided into three terms. At an American university, there are two semesters or three trimesters. 6 end [singular, uncountable] technicalBF the end of a particular period of time [ long-term, short-term]: The agreement reaches its term next year. a child born two months before full term (=of pregnancy) The arrangement had outlived its natural term (=the length of time it was expected to exist). 7 come to terms with something = to accept an unpleasant or sad situation and no longer feel upset or angry about it: George and Elizabeth have come to terms with the fact that they will never have children. Counselling helped her come to terms with her grief. 8 conditions terms [plural] a) the conditions that are set for an agreement, contract, arrangement etc: Under the terms of the agreement, the debt would be repaid over 20 years. your terms and conditions of employment Delivery is within the terms of this contract. equal/unequal/the same etc terms (=conditions that are equal, unequal etc) Small businesses have to compete on equal terms with large organisations. Men and women should be able to work on level terms. on somebody's (own) terms (=according to the conditions that someone wants): He wanted our relationship to be only on his terms. b) the arrangements for payment that you agree to when you buy or sell something reasonable/favourable/cheaper etc terms Some insurance companies offer very reasonable terms. This allowed tenant farmers to buy land on easy terms (=by paying small sums of money over a long period). 9 relationship terms [plural] if you are on good, bad etc terms with someone, you have a good, bad etc relationship with them be on good/bad/friendly etc terms (with somebody) By now, Usha and I were on familiar terms. He is barely on speaking terms with his father (=they are angry and almost never speak to each other). We were soon on first-name terms (=using each other's first names, as a sign of friendship).

10 terms of reference formal = the subjects that a person or group of people agree to consider: the committee's terms of reference 11 number/sign [countable] technical = one of the numbers or signs used in a mathematical calculation VERB

term [transitive usually passive] = to use a particular word or expression to name or describe something: This condition is sometimes termed RSI, or repetitive strain injury. Roosevelt termed himself and his policies 'liberal'. These developments are loosely termed 'advanced manufacturing techniques'.
half-term [countable] [British English] = a short holiday from school in the middle of a term long-term [usually before noun] = continuing for a long period of time into the future, or relating to what will happen in the distant future [ short term]: the long-term future of the fishing industry; the long-term interests of the company the long-term unemployed (=people who have not had a job for a long time) short-term [usually before noun] - continuing for only a short time, or relating only to the period that is not very far into the future [ long-term]: The treatment may bring short-term benefits to AIDS sufferers. Most of the staff are on short-term contracts. She's suffering from short-term memory loss. term paper [countable] American English = a long piece of written work done by college students in the US, that is the most important piece of work in their course term-time [uncountable] British English = the part of the year when classes are given at a school, college, or university NOUN 1 exam =a set of questions, exercises, or practical activities to measure someone's skill, ability, or knowledge spelling/driving/biology etc test : How did you do on your maths test? pass/fail a test : She passed her driving test when she was 17. take/do/sit a test: Applicants are required to take a written test. test on We have a test on irregular verbs tomorrow. The school's test scores are among the highest in the district. Did you get a good mark in the test? ! You take or do a test. Do not say 'make a test'. To pass a test means to succeed in it, not simply to take it. 2 medical a) a medical examination on a part of your body, or a substance taken from your body, to check your health or to discover what is wrong with you: a blood test; an eye test; a hearing test; a pregnancy test do/run a test: They don't know what's wrong with her yet - they're doing tests.

test

test for : a test for HIV; I'm still waiting for my test results from the hospital. b) an examination of someone's blood, breath etc carried out by the police, to discover if they have done something illegal: a drugs test; The results of the DNA test proved that Simmons was the rapist. breath test (=to find out if someone has been drinking alcohol before driving a car) c) a piece of equipment used for carrying out a medical examination: a pregnancy test 3 machine/product = a process used to discover whether equipment or a product works correctly, or to discover more about it: nuclear weapons tests test for :a test for chemicals in the water; Laboratory tests show that the new drug is very effective.; We went to the test site in Nevada. 4 difficult situation = a difficult situation in which the qualities of someone or something are clearly shown: Chess player Nigel Short faces Anatoly Karpov in the toughest test of his career so far. test of character/strength/courage/endurance etc : The problems she faced were a real test of character. 5 put somebody/something to the test =to force someone or something into a difficult situation in order to discover what the limits of their strength, skills etc are: Living together will soon put their relationship to the test. Paul soon found himself in an emergency situation that put all his training to the test. 6 sport British English = a test match VERB 1 medical= to examine someone's blood, body etc in order to find out what is wrong with them, or to see if they have taken an illegal drug: I must have my eyes tested. test somebody for something: They tested her for diabetes. test positive/negative (for something): Athletes who test positive for steroids are immediately banned. 2 substance =to examine a substance or thing in order to find out its qualities or what it contains test (something) for something: The water should be tested for lead. 3 knowledge/ability =to ask someone spoken or written questions, or make them do a practical activity, to discover what they know about a subject: This task is designed to test your reading skills. test somebody on something : We're being tested on grammar tomorrow. 4 machine/product - also test out to use something for a short time to see if it works in the correct way: The Ferrari team wanted to test their new car out on the racetrack.

test something on somebody/something: None of this range of cosmetics has been tested on animals. 5 show how good/strongto show how good or strong someone or something is, especially by putting them in a difficult situation: a game that will test the contestants' strength and skill; The next six months will test your powers of leadership; I felt that she was testing me, leaving all that cash lying around. 6 idea/plan- also test out to start to use an idea or plan to find out if it is correct or effective: Dr Lee set up a series of experiments to test out this hypothesis. test something against something: The theory was then tested against the results of the study. 7 test the water/waters = to check people's reaction to a plan before you decide to use it: The government is clearly testing the water, to gauge the country's reactions to their proposals.

testing - a testing situation, experience etc is difficult to deal with: It's been a testing time litmus test [singular] 1 one detail that is examined in order to help you make a decision about how suitable or acceptable someone or something is litmus test of/for :The mayoral election is regarded as the litmus test for the integrity of the electoral process. 2 a test using litmus paper test ban [countable] =an agreement between countries to stop testing nuclear weapons: the test ban treaty test case [countable]= a legal case that establishes a particular principle, that is then used as a standard which other similar cases can be judged against test run [countable] = an occasion when you try doing something or using something before you really need to use it, to make sure everything works properly testing ground [countable] 1 a place where machines, cars etc are tested to see if they work properly 2 a situation or problem in which you can try new ideas and methods to see if they work: Eastern Europe has become a testing ground for high-speed privatization. trade NOUN 1buying/selling [uncountable] = the activity of buying, selling, or exchanging goods within a country or between countries [= commerce] trade between :There has been a marked increase in trade between East and West; international trade agreements; unfair trade practices trade in: Trade in ivory has been banned since 1990. the arms/drug/slave etc trade (=the buying and selling of weapons, drugs etc) 2 the hotel/tourist etc trade = the business done by companies, hotels etc [ industry]: Working on Saturdays is usual in the retail trade. 3 amount of business [uncountable] British English = business activity, especially the amount of goods or products that are sold [= business]: A lot of pubs nowadays do most of their trade at lunchtimes.

passing trade (=customers who go into a shop when they are passing it, not regular customers) Souvenir shops rely mainly on passing trade. 4 an exchange of things [singular] American English a) when you exchange something you have for something that someone else has: Let's make a trade - my frisbee for your baseball. b) when a player on a sports team is exchanged for a player from another team: The Celtics star demanded a trade after talks with management broke down. 5 the trade = a particular kind of business, and the people who are involved in it: I could get Ron to look at your car for you; he works in the trade. 6 job/work [uncountable and countable] = a particular job, especially one needing special skill with your hands: Brian insisted that his sons learn a trade. My grandfather was a plumber by trade (=that was his job). tools of your trade (=the things that you need to do your job) VERB 1 [intransitive and transitive] to buy and sell goods, services etc as your job or business trade with : India began trading with Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries. trade in: The company trades in silk, tea, and other items; They had to travel into town to trade the produce from their farm. 2 [intransitive] British English to exist and operate as a business: The firm now trades under the name Lanski and Weber. cease trading (=stop being a business because you are bankrupt) 3 [transitive usually passive] = to buy or sell something on the stock exchange: Over a million shares were traded today. 4 trade insults/blows etc = to insult or hit each other during an argument or fight 5 [intransitive and transitive] especially American English to exchange something you have for something someone else has [= swap British English]: We traded necklaces. trade something with somebody: I wouldn't mind trading jobs with her. trade (somebody) something for something: I'll trade you my camera for your drill. trade at something [phrasal verb] = if shares etc trade at a particular price, they cost that amount to buy trade down [phrasal verb] = to replace something you own with something cheaper, or buy a cheaper type of thing than before trade down to : Many of their customers are trading down to cheaper cigarettes.

trade something in [phrasal verb] = to give something such as a car to the person you are buying a new one from, as part of the payment trade something in for : He traded his old car in for a new model. trade something off [phrasal verb] = to balance one situation or quality against another, in order to produce an acceptable result trade something off for/against : Companies are under pressure to trade off price stability for short-term gains. trade on/upon something [phrasal verb] = to use a situation or someone's kindness in order to get an advantage for yourself: If you ask me, they're just trading on Sam's good nature. trade up [phrasal verb] = to replace something you own with something better, or buy a better type of thing than before trade up to/from: It also encourages existing home owners to trade up to larger accommodation. ................................................................................................................................................... trading [uncountable] 1 the activity of buying and selling goods or services: Sunday trading British English (=shops being open on Sunday) 2 the activity of buying and selling stocks etc: heavy/light trading (=a lot of trading or a little trading); Shares dropped 10% in heavy trading. balance of trade [singular] = the difference in value between the goods a country buys from abroad and the goods it sells abroad day trading [uncountable] =the activity of using a computer to buy and sell shares on the Internet, often buying and selling very quickly to make a profit out of small price changes horse-trading [uncountable] =when the people, especially business people or politicians, who are involved in a discussion try hard to gain an advantage for their own side - used to show disapproval insider trading also insider dealing [uncountable] = the crime of using secret information that you have about a company or knowledge of a situation to buy or sell shares at a profit jack-of-all-trades[singular] = someone who can do many different types of work, but who often is not very skilled at any of them stock-in-trade [uncountable] 1 something that is typical of a particular person or thing, especially what they say or do: Stewart's stock-in-trade was the face-to-face interview. 2 literary the things you need to do your job: Vanessa's looks have been her stock-in-trade as an actress. trade discount [countable] =a special reduction in the price of goods sold to people who are going to sell the goods in their own shop or business trade fair [countable] = a large event when several companies show their goods or services in one place, to try to sell them [= trade show]

understandi ng

trade-in [countable]American English = a used car, piece of equipment etc that you give to a seller of a new one that you are buying as part of the payment [= part exchange British English] : Are you going to give your Ford as a trade-in? trade-in price/value :The trade-in value is roughly $3000. trade-off [countable] = a balance between two opposing things, that you are willing to accept in order to achieve something a trade-off between something and something: There has to be a trade-off between quality and quantity if we want to keep prices low. trading estate [countable]British English = an area of land, often at the edge of a city, where there are small factories and businesses 1 [singular, uncountable] knowledge about something, based on learning or experience have an understanding/some understanding of something: If you know the neighbourhood, you have an understanding of what the children are like. have little/no understanding of something: Linguists currently have little understanding of the exact cause of language change. gain/get an understanding of something: How can we gain an understanding of other cultures? a better/greater/deeper understanding of something: Over time, you will get a far better understanding of the job. a clear understanding of something: Success depends on a clear understanding of the problem. a thorough/proper/full understanding of something a basic understanding of something: a basic understanding of AIDS prevention. 2 [countable usually singular] an unofficial or informal agreement come to/reach an understanding (=stop arguing and agree) My father was furious at first, but eventually we came to an understanding. We had an understanding that Jean-Claude should never be mentioned. 3 [singular, uncountable] the ability to understand people's behaviour and to forgive them when they do something wrong: The principal listened to the boy's story with sympathy and understanding. 4 [uncountable] somebody's understanding (of something) = the way in which someone judges the meaning of something: According to my understanding of the letter, it means something quite different. 5 on the understanding that = if you agree to something on the understanding that something else will be done, you agree to it, believing that it will be done: Jack lent Sarah the money on the understanding that she would pay it back next month. ADJECTIVE Understanding = sympathetic and kind about other people's problems: Luckily, I have a very understanding boss. VERB understand - past tense and past participle understood [not in progressive]

1 meaning [intransitive and transitive] = to know the meaning of what someone is telling you, or the language that they speak [ misunderstood]: She doesn't understand English. I'm sorry, I don't understand. Can you explain that again? The woman had a strong accent, and I couldn't understand what she was saying. make yourself understood (=make what you say clear to other people, especially when speaking a foreign language) I'm not very good at German, but I can make myself understood. 2 fact/idea [intransitive and transitive] = o know or realize how a fact, process, situation etc works, especially through learning or experience: I don't really understand the political situation in Northern Ireland. understand how/why/where etc You don't need to understand how computers work to be able to use them. How the drug works isn't fully understood. understand (that): I understand that this treatment may not work. 3 person/feelings [intransitive and transitive] = to realize how someone feels and why they behave the way they do, and to be sympathetic: My parents just don't understand me. Just tell him how you feel - I'm sure he'll understand. understand how/what etc: I understand how you feel, but I think you're overreacting. (can) understand somebody doing something: I can understand her wanting to live alone and be independent. 4 believe/think [transitive] = to believe or think that something is true because you have heard it or read it understand (that): 'I understand that he was 62 when he died,' McLeish said. it is understood (that): It is understood that the Queen approves of her nephew's romance. be understood to be (doing) something: Dillons is understood to be reorganising the company's management structure. 5 give somebody to understand (that) [formal] = to make someone believe that something is true, going to happen etc, without telling them this directly: I was given to understand that the property was in good condition. 6 be understood (that) [formal] if something is understood, everyone knows it, or has agreed to it, and there is no need to discuss it: From childhood it was understood that your parents would choose your husband. 7 understand something to be/mean something = to accept something as having a particular meaning: In this document, 'children' is understood to mean people under 14. 8 do you understand? - spoken - used when you are telling someone what they should or should not do, especially when you are angry with them: Never speak to me like that again! Do you understand? NOUN

view

opinion [countable] = what you think or believe about something [= opinion]

have strong views (about something): She has strong views about politics. have different/conflicting/opposing views: Everyone at the meeting had different views. share somebody's view/this view etc (=think the same as someone else): He was worried about working with people who did not share his views. express a view: The views expressed in this book are purely those of the author. take the view that (=think that): The twins' parents took the view that surgery would be wrong. hold a view strongly/deeply/widely held views: Freud's work affected widely held views on sexual matters. in somebody's view (=used to show whose opinion it is): In my view, the country needs a change of government. support a view (=help show that it is right): Not all the evidence supports this view. an exchange of views (=when people say what they think): There was a frank exchange of views at the meeting. the general view (=what most people think): The general view was that you can't overfeed a baby.

2 way of considering [countable usually singular] a way of thinking about or understanding something view of : Mum's view of the situation was different to mine. optimistic/pessimistic/balanced etc view:a realistic view of human nature; traditional views of religion; You need to have a clear view (=a definite idea) of the kind of book you want to write. take a dim/poor view of something (=disapprove): She took a pretty dim view of his behaviour. 3 sight [uncountable and countable] what you are able to see or whether you can see it view of : We'd like a room with a view of the sea. good/bad/wonderful etc view: The house has wonderful views over the valley. be in view/come into view: Suddenly the pyramids came into view. disappear/vanish/hide from view The gun was hidden from view behind the door. Fran hit him in full view of all the guests (=where they could see it clearly). During an eclipse, the moon blocks our view of the sun (=stops us from seeing it). 4 scenery [countable] the whole area that you can see from somewhere, especially when it is very beautiful or impressive: From the top you get a panoramic view of the city. A huge nuclear reactor now spoils the view. 5 picture [countable] a photograph or picture showing a beautiful or interesting place

view of : The book contains over fifty scenic views of Cambridge. 6 chance to see something [uncountable and countable] an occasion or time when it is possible for people to see something such as an art show view of : A private view of the Summer Exhibition will be held. on view (=being shown to the public): The painting is currently on view at the Tate. 7 in view of something [formal] - used to introduce the reason for a decision or action: In view of his conduct, the club has decided to suspend him. 8 with a view to (doing) something - because you are planning to do something in the future: We bought the house with a view to retiring there. 9 in view [formal] having something in your mind as an aim with this end/object/aim etc in view : Defence was all-important, and castles were designed with this end in view. What sort of job did you have in view? 10 take the long view (of something) [British English] = to think about the effect that something will have in the future rather than what happens now VERB 1 to think about something or someone in a particular way [= see] view something as something: The law should be viewed as a way of meeting certain social goals. view something from a ... perspective/standpoint: It's an issue that can be viewed from several perspectives. view something with caution/suspicion/scepticism etc: The local people viewed newcomers with suspicion. 2 [formal] to look at something, especially because it is beautiful or you are interested in it view something from something The mountain is best viewed from the north side. Thousands of tourists come to view the gardens every year. view a house/an apartment/a property (=go to see a house etc that you are interested in buying) 3 [formal] to watch a television programme, film etc: an opportunity to view the film before it goes on general release bird's-eye view [singular] 1 a view of something from high above it: Visitors can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the area from the castle turrets. 2 a general report or account of something, without many details: a bird's-eye view of recent research pay-per-view [only before noun] = a pay-per-view television channel makes people pay for each programme they watch [ pay TV]

point of view plural points of view [countable] 1 a particular way of thinking about or judging a situation- scientific/technical/business etc point of view : From an economic point of view, the new development will benefit the town greatly. 2 someone's own personal opinion or attitude about something: I respect your point of view, but I'm not sure I agree with you. from somebody's point of view:From my point of view, there is no way they can win. private view also private viewing [countable] = an occasion when a few people are invited to see a show of paintings before the rest of the public side-view mirror [countable] American English = a mirror attached to the side of a car [= wing mirror British English] world view , world-view [countable usually singular] = someone's opinions and attitudes relating to the world and things in general: the limited nineteenth-century world view NOUN 1 method [countable] = a method that you use to do or achieve something: There are several different ways we can tackle this problem. way of doing something: Evening classes are one way of meeting new people. There's no way of knowing if the treatment will work. way to do something: What's the best way to learn a language? in the same way/in different ways etc: Make the drink with boiling water in the same way as tea. Animals communicate in various ways. (in) the right/wrong way: I think you're going about this the wrong way. ways and means (=methods of doing something, especially ones that are secret or not yet decided): There are ways and means of raising the money that we need. way out/out of/around: One way around the problem (=method of dealing with it) is recycling. There seems to be no way out of the current economic crisis. way into television/publishing/finance etc (=a method of getting involved in a particular activity or type of work) : companies eager for a way into business in Europe 2 manner [countable] the manner or style in which someone does something or in which something happens: Look at the way he's dressed! in a ... way : 'Hello,' he said in a friendly way. Maria got up and took a shower in a leisurely way. (in) this/that way: I find it easier to work in this way (=like this). Sorry, I didn't know you felt that way (=had that feeling or opinion). The drugs didn't seem to affect Anna in the same way. that's no way to do something (=used to tell someone that they should not be doing something in a particular manner) That's no way to speak to your father! in more ways than one (=in a number of ways) : The changes will benefit the company in more ways than one. in somebody's (own) way (=in a personal way that other people may not recognize) : I'm sure he does love you, in his own

way

way. 3 direction/how to go somewhere [countable] a) a road, path, direction etc that you take in order to get to a particular place the way to/from/out etc Which is the quickest way to the sea from here? There are several ways through the woods. ask/tell/show somebody the way Could you tell me the way to the station? Does anyone know the way from here? I was afraid of losing my way in the dark. Can you find your way back to the car park? the way out (=the door, path etc which you can use to leave a building or area): Which is the way out? the way in (=the door, path etc which you can use to enter a building or area): She looked all around, but she couldn't seem to find the way in. on somebody's way (=in the same direction as someone is going): Want a lift? It's on my way. out of somebody's way (=not in the same direction as someone is going): I live miles out of your way. b) a particular direction from where you are now: Which way is north? Walk this way. A big Mercedes was coming the other way (=from the opposite direction). He left the house, looking carefully both ways. 4 part of something that is true [countable] used to say that there is a fact or a feature of something that makes a statement or description true in a/one way : In one way you're right, I suppose. in some/many ways Working at home makes sense, in many ways. Ben is a perfectly normal child in every way. He never got mad at me. He was great in that way. in no way (=used to emphasize that something is not true): This should in no way be seen as a defeat. 5 distance/time [singular] a distance or a length of time, especially a long one: I was still a long way from home. some way/quite a way (=quite a long distance) : She had to park some way from the restaurant. a long way off/away/ahead etc (=far away in distance or in time) A peace settlement now seems a long way off. I don't want to go all that way and not see him. all the way down/across/through etc (something) (=the full distance or length of something) Did you really swim all the way across? I was awake all through the night.

a (long) ways American English : That's quite a ways from here, isn't it? 6 the space in front of you [countable usually singular] if someone or something is in the way, they are blocking the space in front of you, and you cannot move forward be in the way/be in somebody's way (=be blocking a road, someone's path etc so that they cannot move forward easily) There was a big truck in the way. Sorry, am I in your way? A policeman yelled at the crowds to get out of the way. The way ahead was blocked. 7 make way (for something/somebody) a) to move to the side so that there is space for someone or something to pass: The crowd stepped aside to make way for the procession. b) to make it possible for something newer or better to be built, organized etc: Several houses were demolished to make way for a new road. 8 out of the way a) also out of somebody's way if someone or something is out of the way, they are somewhere where they are not likely to cause a problem, need attention, be annoying etc move/put/push etc something out of the way Why don't you tie your hair back, out of the way? If Uncle Tom had been drinking, I kept out of his way. When Mac was safely out of the way, Peter came round. b) if a particular matter, job etc is out of the way, it has been done or dealt with: I'd rather get the interview out of the way in the morning. As soon as the contract's out of the way, we can start. c) a place that is out of the way is far from any towns 9 on the/your/its way a) arriving or happening soon: There's a letter on its way to you; More changes are on the way. b) travelling towards a particular place: She should be on the way here by now. on the/your/its way to: The ships were already on their way to the gulf c) while going from one place to another on the/your/its way to/out/home etc: I ran out of gas on my way to the airport; Guess who I bumped into on the way home. d) also along the way while moving from one situation or part of your life to another: Don's had to change jobs several times along the way. e) if someone has a baby on the way, they are pregnant 10be under way

a) to have started to happen or be done: Plans are well under way for a new shopping centre. The tournament got under way on Friday. b) to have started to move or travel somewhere: Our train was already under way. 11 make your way a) to go towards something, especially when this is difficult or takes a long time make your way to/through/towards etc: The team slowly made their way back to base. make your own way (home/to something etc) (=go somewhere without the help or company of other people): Don't worry. I can make my own way to the beach. b) to gradually become successful in a particular job, activity, profession etc: young people who are making their way in industry 12 push/grope/inch etc your way somewhere = to get somewhere by using force or moving carefully: She elbowed her way to the front of the queue. He drank some water, then groped his way back to the bedroom. 13 give way a) to be replaced by something else give way to Stone has given way to glass and concrete. My anger gave way to depression. b) to agree to do what someone else wants, instead of what you want, especially after a lot of discussion or argument: Despite growing pressure, the Minister of State refused to give way. give way to : Maria seemed to despise him for giving way to her. c) to break because of too much weight or pressure: The floor's rotten and likely to give way. d) British English to stop or slow down when you are driving, in order to allow other vehicles to go first [= yield American English] : In Britain, give way to cars coming from the right. 14 clear/pave/open/prepare etc the way (for something) = to make it possible for something to happen or develop later: a study that paved the way for further research The Queen's death opened the way for him to return. 15 a/the way forward = an action, plan etc that seems a good idea because it is likely to lead to success: A way forward lies in developing more economic links. a/the way forward for This treatment may be the way forward for many inherited disorders. 16state/condition [singular] = a particular state or condition: My family was in a bad way financially. The chicken's nice and crispy - just the way I like it. It's worth thinking how you can improve the way things are. somebody was born/made that way (=used to say that someone's character is not likely to change) : He'll always be mean he was born that way.

17 fact/event [singular] used to refer to something that happens: I hate the way you always give in to him. 18 behaviour [countable] = someone's typical style of behaving, especially when it seems different or unusual be (just) somebody's way Don't worry if she's quiet - that's just her way. Esther quickly changed the subject, as was her way. strange/funny/odd etc ways : We all have our funny little ways. change/mend your ways (=stop behaving badly) 19 development/progress [singular] - used in expressions about developing and improving: The team has a long way to go (=needs to develop or improve a lot) before it can match that performance. Microwave ovens have come a long way (=have developed or improved a lot) since they first appeared in our kitchens. Jen is now well on the way to recovery (=she has improved and will be well soon). 20 go some way towards doing something also go a long way towards doing something = to help a little or a lot to make something happen: ideas that go some way towards reducing environmental problems 21 choices/possibilities = [countable] used when talking about two choices someone could make, or two possibilities that could happen: I'm not sure which way he'll decide. The election could go either way (=both results are equally possible). Make your mind up one way or the other. either way (=used to say that something will be the same, whichever of two things happens) : Either way, it's going to be expensive. 22 within two feet/ten years etc either way = no more than two feet etc more or less than a particular amount: Your answer must be within a centimetre either way. 23 (in) one way or another also one way or the other - used to say that someone does or will do something somehow, although you are not sure how: One way or the other he always seems to win. We'll find the money, one way or another. 24 way around/round/up = a particular order or position that something should be in: Which way around does this skirt go? the other way around/round/up (=in the opposite order or position) The picture should be the other way up. Art reflects life, or is it the other way around (=is it 'life reflects art')? the right/wrong way around/round/up : Are the batteries in the wrong way round? 25 by way of something a) also in the way of something as a form or means of something: I'd like to say something by way of introduction.

little in the way of something also not much/enough in the way of something (=not much of something): The town has little in the way of leisure facilities. b) if you travel by way of a place, you go through it [= via]: We went by way of London. 26 get in the way of something = to prevent someone from doing something, or prevent something from happening: Your social life must not get in the way of your studies. 27 go out of your way to do something = to do something with more effort than is usual or expected: She went out of her way to make me feel welcome. 28 get/have your (own) way = to do what you want to, even though someone else wants something different: Don't let the children always get their own way. 29 go your own way = to do what you want, make your own decisions etc: At 18, most young people are ready to go their own way. 30 go somebody's way a) if an event goes your way, it happens in the way you want: The government are hopeful that the vote will go their way. everything/things/nothing goes somebody's way (=used to talk about events in general) b) literary to continue a journey, or to leave and do what you want to do next: She said goodbye and went her way. c) to travel in the same direction as someone: I can take you - I'm going your way. 31 come somebody's way - if something comes your way, you get or experience it, especially by chance: Luck had come her way at the very last moment. 32 in a big/small way - used to talk about the degree to which something happens, or how important it is: The business was a success, in a small way. 33 by a long way = by a large amount: He was the best in the group by a long way. 34 talk/buy etc your way into/past etc something/somebody = to get where you want or achieve something you want by saying or doing something: Caroline managed to talk her way past the guard. 35 work/munch/smoke etc your way through something = to deal with, eat, smoke etc a large amount of things: He worked his way through the pile of documents. She had munched her way through a packet of biscuits. 36 be on the/your way out = to be becoming less popular, important, powerful etc: Is the royal family on the way out? 37 across/over the way= on the opposite side of the street: They live across the way from us at number 23.

38 have a way of doing something - used to say that something often or usually happens: Cheer up - these problems have a way of working out. 39 get into the way of doing something [British English] = to start to do something regularly: He'd got into the way of smoking first thing in the morning. 40 not in any way, shape, or form - used to emphasize that something is not true: I am not responsible for his actions in any way, shape, or form. 41 split something two/three etc ways - also divide something two/three etc ways to divide something into two, three etc equal parts: We'll split the cost between us five ways. 42 have a way with somebody/something = to be especially good at dealing with people or things of a particular type: David seems to have a way with children. She's always had a way with words (=been good at using words effectively). 43 the way of the world = how things always happen or are done, especially when this is not easy to change: In those days these policies favoured men. That was the way of the world. 44 every which way [informal] a) in all directions: Bullets were flying every which way. b) British English every possible method: I tried every which way to avoid it. 45 Way - used in the names of roads: Church Way 46 spoken by the way -used when saying something that is not related to the main subject you were talking about before: By the way, have you seen my keys anywhere? 47 spoken no way! a) used to say that you will definitely not do or allow something: 'Can I borrow your car?' 'No way!' There's no way I'll ever get married again. no way Jos! (=used to emphasize that you will not do something) b) especially American English used to say that you do not believe something or are very surprised by it: She's 45? No way! 48 spoken the way I see it also to my way of thinking - used before telling someone your opinion: The way I see it, it was a fair trade. 49 spoken that's the way - used to tell someone that they are doing something correctly or well, especially when you are showing them how: Now bring your foot gently off the clutch - that's the way.

50 spoken that's (just) the way something/somebody is also that's (just) the way something goes - used to say that a particular situation or person cannot be changed: Don't try to fight it. That's just the way it is. Sometimes Tim needs to be alone. That's the way he is. 51 spoken be with somebody all the way = to agree with someone completely: I'm with you all the way on this salary issue, Joe. 52 spoken if I had my way - used when telling someone what you think it would be best to do: If I had my way, we'd leave this place tomorrow. 53 spoken have it your (own) way - used to tell someone in an annoyed way that you will agree to what they want 54 spoken (there are) no two ways about it - used to say that something is definitely true, especially something unpleasant 55 spoken you can't have it both ways - used to say that you cannot have the advantages from both of two different possible decisions or actions: It's a choice between the time and the money - you can't have it both ways! 56 spoken way to go! [American English] - used to tell someone that they have done something very well or achieved something special 57 spoken (that's/it's) always the way! [British English] - used to say that things always happen in the way that is least convenient: The train was late - always the way when you're in a hurry! 58 spoken down your/London etc way = in your area, the area of London etc ADVERB 1 very far way ahead/behind/out etc : The other cyclists were way behind. She lives way out of town. 2 by a large amount way above/below/past etc: Her IQ is way above average. way out: Your guess was way out (=completely incorrect), he's actually thirty-eight. way back: We first met way back (=a long time ago) in the 70s. way heavier/smarter/bigger etc (=much heavier etc): The tickets were way more expensive than I thought. 3 American English informal = very: I think she's way cool, man. . right of way plural rights of way 1 [uncountable] British English the right of way American English = the right to drive into or across a road before other vehicles: I never know who has right of way at this junction. The law here says that pedestrians always have the right of way.

2 [countable] British English a) the right to walk across someone else's land: Walkers are often quite aggressive about their rights of way. b) a path that people have the right to use: The path is not a public right of way. Third Way = the idea of a system of government that does not have the state control and high taxes of socialism, but unlike capitalism tries to give people equal opportunities and a good quality of life two-way 1 moving or allowing movement in both directions: two-way traffic, two-way trade 2 used to describe a relationship which needs effort from both the people or groups involved: Corruption is a two-way process. 3 a two-way radio both sends and receives messages two-way street [informal] something is a two-way street - used to say that a situation depends on two people working well together: Marriage has to be a two-way street. work way-out informal = very modern, unusual, and strange VERB do a job for money [intransitive] to do a job that you are paid for: Where do you work? Many young people in the area have never worked. The injury means he'll probably never work again. work for : He works for a law firm. work at/in : I work at the university. work as : She works as a consultant for a design company. work in industry/education/publishing etc : The studies were undertaken by people working in education. work part-time/full-time : I work part-time in a library. 2 do your job [intransitive and transitive] to do the activities and duties that are part of your job: Sally isn't working tomorrow. Staff will have to get used to a new way of working. work with : One of the women I work with is getting married this weekend. work under somebody (=have someone who is in charge of you) : Each site has a fully trained team who work under a site manager. work days/nights/weekends etc :I get paid more if I work nights. We're sometimes expected to work twelve-hour days. Are you working late (=working after the time you usually finish) again tonight? Forty police officers are working round the clock (=working day and night without stopping) to find Murray's killer. Nowadays, many people are able to work from home. 3 help [intransitive] if you work with someone or a group of people, your job involves trying to help them work with/among She's just retired after 38 years working with children. He has worked among some of the world's poorest people. 4 do an activity [intransitive] to spend time and effort doing something: I've been working in the garden all afternoon. I'm going to have to work really hard to pass these exams. We're working together to develop a new system.

5 try to achieve something [intransitive] to try continuously to achieve a particular thing work towards : They are working towards a solution to their problems. work for : We will work for the release of the hostages. work to do something: The police are working to provide more help for victims of crime. The company is working hard to improve its image. He worked tirelessly (=worked very hard in a determined way) for the charity throughout his life. 6 machine/equipment a) [intransitive] if a machine or piece of equipment works, it does what it is supposed to do: You should check that the smoke alarm is working properly. The delete key doesn't work. get something to work : I can't get the heater to work. b) [transitive] to make a machine or piece of equipment do what it is supposed to do: My parents can't even work the video. 7 be effective/successful [intransitive] to be effective or successful: Making a marriage work can take a lot of effort. I've never found a diet that works. The recipe works just as well if you use margarine instead of butter. The cream works immediately to relieve sore skin. work for:You need to find which method works best for you. work against : a drug that works against some types of cancer 8 have an effect [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] - if something such as a fact, situation, or system works in a particular way, it has a particular effect on someone or something: The arrangement works well for everyone involved. The French team are the heavier crew, which should work in their favour (=help them). Sexism still works against (=harms or causes problems for) women in many professions. 9 art/style/literature [intransitive] - if a painting, design, piece of writing etc works, it is successful because it has the effect on you that the painter, writer etc intended: I don't think the scene with the horses really works, do you? work for: The colour combination just doesn't work for me. 10 shape/cut something [transitive] - if you work a material such as metal, leather, or clay, you cut, sew, or shape it in order to make something 11 use a substance [intransitive]TIC to use a particular material or substance in order to make something such as a picture, design, jewellery etc work in/with: a sculptor who works in steel; a jeweller who works with silver 12 work your way to/through etc something a) to move somewhere slowly and with difficulty: From here, we worked our way carefully across the rock base. b) to achieve something gradually by working: He had worked his way up to head of department. 13 work your way through school/college/university etc = to do a job while you are a student because you need the money to pay for your courses, books etc

14 move gradually [intransitive,transitive always + adverb/preposition] to move into a particular state or position very gradually, either in a series of small movements or after a long time: Slowly he worked the screwdriver into the crack. work (its way) loose: One of the screws must have worked loose. 15 exercise [transitive] = to use and exercise a muscle or part of your body: Swimming is a form of exercise that works every muscle in your body. 16 move [intransitive and transitive] formal if a part of your body works or you work it, it moves: She was trembling and her mouth was working. 17 work in an area [transitive] if you work a particular area or type of place, you travel around the area for your job, or work in that type of place: Markowitz works the Tri-State area. 18 work the door = to take tickets from people as they enter a club, theatre etc: Binns worked the door at various Manhattan clubs. 19 entertain a crowd [transitive] if an entertainer or politician works a crowd of people, they entertain them and get their interest or support: She really knew how to work a crowd. 20 land/soil [transitive] - if you work the land, soil etc, you do all the work necessary to grow crops on it: He was left to work the farm alone. 21 mine [transitive] = to remove a substance such as coal, gold, or oil from under the ground 22 work like magic/work like a charm - also work a treat British English to be very effective: a polish that works a treat on windows 23 mind/brain [intransitive] if your mind or brain is working, you are thinking or trying to solve a problem 24 work on the principle/assumption/basis etc that = to base ideas, plans etc on a particular fact that you think is true: We're working on the assumption that the conference will take place in Canada, as planned. 25 work yourself into a frenzy/panic/state etc = to make yourself become very nervous, angry etc: He seemed to be working himself into a rage. 26 work it/things spoken = to make arrangements for something to happen, especially by behaving in a clever or skilful way: We should try and work it so that we can all go together. 27 work the system = to understand how a system works so that you can get advantages for yourself, often in a slightly dishonest way: Lynn could show the rest of us how to work the system.

28 work somebody hard - also work somebody into the ground informal to make someone work very hard: The coach has been working us really hard this week. People have complained that they are being worked into the ground. work yourself into the ground : I've worked myself into the ground setting up this interview. 29 work your fingers to the bone - also work your socks off informal to work very hard 30work your butt/ass/arse off = not polite to work very hard 31 calculate [transitive] American English formal = to calculate the answer to a mathematical problem 32 work to rule [British English] = to protest about a situation at work by doing your job slowly, with the excuse that you must obey all the rules exactly 33 It works for me spoken - used to say that something is very suitable for you and does exactly what you wanted or expected: I meditate and do Yoga every day. It works for me and I think it could work for you too. work around somebody/something [phrasal verb] = to arrange or organize something so that you avoid problems that may stop you from doing something: John won't be here on the 15th so we'll have to work round that. work around to something [phrasal verb] = to gradually mention a subject in a conversation or piece of writing, especially because it is embarrassing: You'll have to work round to the subject gradually. work at something [phrasal verb] = to try hard to improve something or achieve something: Learning a language isn't easy. You have to work at it. work at doing something : couples who want to work at improving their relationship work somebody/something in [phrasal verb] 1 work something in - also work something into something to include something in a speech, piece of writing, activity etc: He managed to work in a few references to his new book. Here are a few goodies you can work into your daily diet. 2 work something in - also work something into something to add one substance to another and mix them together in a very thorough way: Work the butter into the flour. 3 American English spoken to arrange to meet someone, even though you are very busy [= fit somebody in British English] My schedule's pretty full, but I think I can work you in.

work something off [phrasal verb] 1 to get rid of something, especially a feeling such as anger, nervousness etc, by doing something that uses a lot of your energy: Walking is excellent for working off tension. I need to go and work off a few of these calories. 2 to do a job for someone else because you owe them money or because they have helped you in the past: She hasn't worked off her debts to me yet. work on somebody/something [phrasal verb] 1 to spend time working in order to produce or repair something: He has spent the last two years working on a book about childcare. Every weekend you see him working on his car. 2 to try very hard to improve or achieve something: A trainer has been brought in to work on her fitness. work on doing something : We need to work on ensuring that the children feel safe and confident. 3 to try continuously to influence someone or persuade them to do something: You leave him to me. I'll work on him. work out [phrasal verb] 1 plan work something out = to think carefully about how you are going to do something and plan a good way of doing it: UN negotiators have worked out a set of compromise proposals. work out what/where/how etc: We need to work out how we're going to get there. I had it all worked out (=had made very careful plans). 2 calculate work something out = to calculate an answer, amount, price etc: See if you can work this bill out. work out how much/how many etc : We'll have to work out how much food we'll need for the party. 3 understand work something out - especially British English = to think about something and manage to understand it:

The plot is very complicated - it'll take you a while to work it out. work something out for yourself : I'm sure you can work it out for yourself.

4 cost - if a cost or amount works out at a particular figure, it is found to be that much when you calculate it work out at/to 10/$500 etc : The bill works out at 15 each. work out expensive/cheap etc (=be expensive or cheap) : If we go by taxi, it's going to work out very expensive. 5 get better - if a problem or complicated situation works out, it gradually gets better or gets solved: Things will work out, you'll see. I hope it all works out for Gina and Andy. work itself out : I'm sure everything will work itself out. 6 happen - if a situation works out in a particular way, it happens in that way [= turn out] work out well/badly : Financially, things have worked out well for us. 7 exercise = to make your body fit and strong by doing exercises: He works out with weights twice a week. 8 I can't work somebody out [British English] spoken used to say that you cannot understand what someone is really like or why they behave in the way they do: I couldn't work her out at all. 9 be worked out = if a mine is worked out, all the coal, gold etc has been removed from it work somebody over [phrasal verb] = to attack someone by hitting them several times work through [phrasal verb] 1 work something through = to deal with problems or unpleasant feelings: After someone dies, it can take a long time to work though your grief. 2 if the result or effect of something works through, it becomes noticeable: The positive effect on businesses may take up to three years to work through. work up [phrasal verb] 1 work up enthusiasm/interest/courage etc = to make yourself feel interested, brave etc: I'm trying to work up enough courage to go to the dentist. 2 work up an appetite/a thirst/a sweat = to make yourself hungry or thirsty, or make yourself sweat, especially by doing physical exercise: You can work up a really big thirst playing tennis. 3 work somebody up = to make someone very angry, excited, or upset about something work yourself up : You're working yourself up again. She had worked herself up into a state. 4 work something up = to develop and improve something such as a project or a piece of writing: Jack took notes which he

would work up into a report later. work up to something [phrasal verb] = to gradually prepare yourself to do something difficult work up to doing something : He'd been working up to asking her for a date all week. NOUN 1 job [uncountable] a job or activity that you do regularly, especially in order to earn money [ employment]: There isn't a lot of work at this time of the year. My father started work when he was just 14. He's been out of work (=without a job) for two years. More people are in work (=have a job) than ten years ago. There has been an increase in the number of people looking for work. She found work with an engineering firm. I'm planning to return to work (=start a job again after a long period of time) when the children are a little older. before/after work (=before a day of work or at the end of a day of work) : Do you want to go for a drink after work? part-time/full-time work : The new law will benefit people in part-time work.; I need to find paid work (=a job you are paid to do). voluntary work British English /volunteer work American English (=a job you are not paid for) : He does voluntary work in a hospital. In my line of work (=the type of work someone does), I meet lots of interesting people. 2 place [uncountable] a place where you do your job, which is not your home: I had an accident on the way to work. He left work at the usual time. I went out with the girls from work last night. at work : Dad's at work right now. 3 duties [uncountable] the duties and activities that are part of your job: A large part of the work we do involves using computers. He starts work at 4am. secretarial/legal/clerical etc work : He's started a business doing gardening and roofing work. 4 result [uncountable] something that you produce as a result of doing your job or doing an activity: Send a rsum and examples of your work. The building is the work of architect Rafael Moneo. The teacher should make sure that each child has a piece of work displayed on the wall. The standard of work has declined. 5 papers etc [uncountable] the papers and other materials you need for doing work:

Can you move some of your work off the kitchen table? I often have to take work home with me.

6 book/painting/music [countable]A something such as a painting, play, piece of music etc that is produced by a painter, writer, or musician: the Collected Works of Shakespeare ; It is another accomplished work by the artist. 7 activity [uncountable] when you use physical or mental effort in order to achieve something work on Work will start next month on a new swimming pool in the centre of the city. Looking after children can be hard work. carry out/ do work : You should not allow unqualified people to carry out work on your house. set to work/get down to work (=start work) : He set to work immediately. 8 study [uncountable] study or research, especially for a particular purpose carry out/do work The centre carries out work to monitor trends in housing management. He did his postgraduate work in Sociology. 9 at work a) doing your job or a particular activity: He spent most of his time watching the fishermen at work. b) having a particular influence or effect: Volcanoes display some of nature's most powerful forces at work. 10 the (whole) works - spoken used after mentioning several things, to emphasize that someone or something has everything you can think of: The hotel had everything - sauna, swimming pool, the works. 11 nice work/quick work - spoken used to praise someone for doing something well or quickly: That was quick work! 12 something is in the works/pipeline [informal] used to say that something is being planned or developed: Upgrades to the existing software are in the works. 13 works [plural, uncountable] a) activities involved in building or repairing things such as roads, bridges etc engineering works/irrigation works/roadworks : the official in charge of the engineering works b) a building or group of buildings in which goods are produced in large quantities or an industrial process happens ironworks/gasworks/cement works : The brick works closed last year. 14 the works = the moving parts of a machine [= mechanism] 15 have your work cut out (for you) [informal] used to say that it will be very difficult to do something: The team will have their work cut out if they are to win the competition.

16 make short/light work of something = to do something very quickly and easily: A microwave oven can make light work of the cooking. 17 make heavy/hard work of something = to do something with difficulty: They made hard work of what should have been an easy game. 18 force [uncountable] technical = force multiplied by distance .. 1 working Adjective a) having a job that you are paid for [ employed]: a working mother; Many working women rely on relatives for childcare. A smaller working population will have to support a growing number of retired people. b) old-fashioned having a physical or practical job working man/people/folk : the ordinary working man 2 working hours/day/week = the time that people spend doing their job: In a normal working day, I see around 6 or 7 clients. during/outside working hours : Telephone at any time during normal working hours; Many mothers prefer flexible working hours; We do a 37-hour working week. 3 working day = a day of the week when most people work. In Britain and the US this is usually Monday to Friday [= workday]: It will be returned within three working days (=three days, not including weekends or public holidays). 4 working conditions/environment etc = the situation in which you work, especially the physical things such as pay or safety: improvements in working conditions 5 working practices/methods = the way in which you do your job: training in up-to-date working practices 6 working life = the part of your adult life when you have a paid job: He spent all his working life in a factory. 7 (in) working order = working properly and not broken be in good/perfect/full etc working order: The car was old, but the engine was still in good working order; the amount of exercise needed to keep your body in working order 8 working relationship = the way that people work together working relationship with/between : They want to establish a better working relationship between medical and nursing staff. good/close/effective etc working relationship: We have a close working relationship with other voluntary groups. 9 a working knowledge of something = enough knowledge of a system, subject, language etc to be able to use it or to do a

particular job: A good working knowledge of the Building Regulations is necessary for the job. 10 working clothes = also work clothes clothes which you wear for work or are designed for people to work in 11 working model = a model that has parts that move 12 working parts = the parts of a machine that move 13 working definition/theory/title = a definition, idea etc that may not be exactly right but is good enough to use when you start working on something 14 working majority: [British English]enough support in parliament for a government to continue making laws and ruling a country 15 working breakfast/lunch/dinner = a breakfast, lunch etc which is also a business meeting 16 working memory =[ technical] the part of a person's or computer's memory which stores information about the thing being worked on now Noun 1 [singular] also workings the way something such as a system, piece of equipment, or organization works working of: his knowledge of the inner workings of the department; I shall never understand the workings of his mind (=how he thinks). 2 flexible/short-time etc working = a particular way of working, especially relating to the hours which someone works 3 [countable usually plural] = a mine or part of a mine where soil has been dug out in order to remove metals or stone [ quarry] make-work [uncountable] [American English] = work that is not important but is given to people to keep them busy work permit [countable] = an official document that you need if you want to work in a foreign country [ visa] work release [uncountable] American English = a system in which a prisoner is allowed to work outside a prison work-to-rule [singular]= a situation in which people in a particular job refuse to do any additional work as a protest [ strike] working capital [uncountable] = the money that is available to be used for the costs of a business