It was obvious that something was weighing on her mind.

For most of the interview he sat in silence, weighing me up. Its easy to while away a few hours in a museum. Theyre trying to whip up support for their candidate. I always said he would wind up in prison. Its about time he wised up to the fact that times have changed. Its not a job Id wish on anybody. He looked about, trying to work out where he was. He lost this match, but dont write him off as a future champion. Dont work yourself up over such a trivial matter.

weigh sb 'down to make sb feel worried or anxious SYN burden:The responsibilities of the job are weighing her down. He is weighed down with guilt. weigh sb/sth 'down to make sb/sth heavier so that they are not able to move easily:I was weighed down with baggage. weigh 'in (at sth) to have your weight measured, especially before a contest, race, etc.:Both boxers weighed in at several pounds below the limit.related noun weigh-in weigh 'in (with sth) (informal) to join in a discussion, an argument, an activity, etc. by saying sth important, persuading sb, or doing sth to help:We all weighed in with our suggestions. Finally the government weighed in with financial aid. 'weigh on sb/sth to make sb anxious or worried:The responsibilities weigh heavily on him. Something was weighing on her mind. weigh sth 'out to measure an amount of sth by weight:She weighed out a kilo of flour. weigh sb 'up to form an opinion of sb by watching or talking to them

while sth a'way to spend time in a pleasant lazy way:We whiled away the time reading and playing cards.

whip 'through sth (informal) to do or finish sth very quickly:We whipped through customs in ten minutes. whip sb/sth 'up 1 to deliberately try and make people excited or feel strongly about sth SYN rouse:The advertisements were designed to whip up public opinion. He was a speaker who could really whip up a crowd. 2 to quickly make a meal or sth to eat:She whipped up a delicious lunch for us in 15 minutes.

wind 'down 1 (of a person) to rest or relax after a period of activity or excitement SYN unwind 2 (of a piece of machinery) to go slowly and then stop wind sth 'down 1 to bring a business, an activity, etc. to an end gradually over a period of time:The government is winding down its nuclear programme. 2 to make sth such as the window of a car move downwards by turning a handle, pressing a button, etc.:Can I wind my window down? wind 'up (informal) (of a person) to find yourself in a particular place or situation:I always said he would wind up in prison. [+ -ing] We eventually wound up staying in a

little hotel a few miles from town. [+adj] If you take risks like that youll wind up dead. wind 'up | wind sth 'up to bring sth such as a speech or meeting to an end:The speaker was just winding up when the door was flung open. If we all agree, lets wind up the discussion. wind sb 'up (BrE, informal) to deliberately say or do sth in order to annoy sb:Calm down! Cant you see hes only winding you up? That cant be true! Youre winding me up.related noun wind-up wind sth 'up 1 to stop running a company, business, etc. and close it completely 2 to make sth such as the window of a car move upwards by turning a handle, pressing a button, etc.

be none the 'wiser | not be any the 'wiser 1 to not understand sth, even after it has been explained to you:Ive read the instructions, but Im still none the wiser. 2 to not know or find out about sth bad that sb has done:If you put the money back, no one will be any the wiser. be wise after the e'vent (often disapproving) to understand sth, or realize what you should have done, only after sth has happened be / get 'wise to sb/sth (informal) to become aware that sb is being dishonest:He thought he could fool me but I got wise to him. put sb 'wise (to sth) (informal) to inform sb about sth

wish sth a'way to try to get rid of sth by wishing it did not exist 'wish sb/sth on sb (informal) (used in negative sentences) to want sb to have sth unpleasant:I wouldnt wish something like that on my worst enemy. work (at / on sth)

to do sth that involves physical or mental effort, especially as part of a job:[v] I cant work if Im cold. Ive been working at my assignment all day. He is working on a new novel. Shes outside, working on the car. [vn] Doctors often work very long hours.

work (for sb/sth) | work (as sth) to have a job:Both my parents work. She works for an engineering company. Ive always worked in education. Do you enjoy working with children? My son is working as a teacher.

work (for sth) to make efforts to achieve sth:[v] She dedicated her life to
working for peace. [v to inf] The committee is working to get the prisoners freed.

work (on sb/sth) to have the result or effect that you want:The pills the doctor gave me arent working. My plan worked, and I got them to agree. His charm doesnt work on me (= does not affect or impress me).

work sth (into sth) to make a material into a particular shape or form by pressing, stretching, hitting it, etc.:to work clay to work gold to work the mixture into a paste

work (in / with sth) (of an artist, etc.) to use a particular material to produce a picture or other item:an artist working in oils a craftsman working with wool

work a'round / 'round to sth/sb

to gradually turn a conversation towards a particular topic, subject, etc.:It was some time before he worked around to what he really wanted to say. 'work at sth to make great efforts to achieve sth or do sth well:Hes working at losing weight. Learning to play the piano isnt easy. You have to work at it. work sth 'in | work sth into sth 1 to try to include sth:Cant you work a few more jokes into your speech? 2 to add one substance to another and mix them together:Gradually work in the butter. work sth'off 1 to get rid of sth, especially a strong feeling, by using physical effort:She worked off her anger by going for a walk. 2 to earn money in order to be able to pay a debt:They had a large bank loan to work off. 'work on sb to try to persuade sb to agree to sth or to do sth:He hasnt said hell do it yet, but Im working on him. 'work on sth to try hard to improve or achieve sth:You need to work on your pronunciation a bit more. Have you sorted out a babysitter yet? No, but Im working on it. work 'out 1 to train the body by physical exercise:I work out regularly to keep fit.related noun workout 2 to develop in a successful way:My first job didnt work out. Things have worked out quite well for us. work 'out (at sth) if sth works out at sth, you calculate that it will be a particular amount:[+adj] Itll work out cheaper to travel by bus. work sb 'out to understand sbs character:Ive never been able to work her out. work sth 'out 1 to calculate sth:to work out the answer 2 to find the answer to sth SYN solve:to work out a problem [+ wh-] Can you work out what these squiggles mean? I couldnt work out where the music was coming from. 3 to plan or think of sth:Ive worked out a new way of doing it. 4 [usually passive] to remove all the coal, minerals, etc. from a mine over a period of time:a worked-out silver mine work sb 'over (slang) to attack sb and hit them, for example to make them give you information 'work to sth to follow a plan, schedule, etc.:to work to a budget Were working to a very tight deadline (= we have little time in which to do the work).

'work towards sth to try to reach or achieve a goal work sth 'up to develop or improve sth with some effort:I cant work up any enthusiasm for his idea. She went for a long walk to work up an appetite. work sb / yourself 'up (into sth) to make sb/yourself reach a state of great excitement, anger, etc.:Dont work yourself up into a state about it. It isnt worth it. What are you so worked up about? work sth 'up into sth to bring sth to a more complete or more acceptable state:Im working my notes up into a dissertation. work 'up to sth to develop or move gradually towards sth, usually sth more exciting or extreme:The music worked up to a rousing finale. I began by jogging in the park and worked up to running five miles a day.

write a'way = write off / away write 'back (to sb) to write sb a letter replying to their letter SYN reply:Im afraid I never wrote back. She wrote back saying that she couldnt come. write sth 'down 1 to write sth on paper, especially in order to remember or record it:Write down the address before you forget it. 2 (business) to reduce the value of assets when stating it in a companys accountsrelated noun write-down write 'in (to sb/sth) (for sth) to write a letter to an organization or a company, for example to ask about sth or to express an opinion:Ill write in for more information. write sb/sth 'in (NAmE, politics) to add an extra name to your voting paper in an election in order to be able to vote for themrelated noun write-in write sth 'into sth to include a rule or condition in a contract or an agreement when it is made write 'off / a'way (to sb/sth) (for sth) to write to an organization or a company, usually in order to ask them to send you sth SYN send off:Ive written off for the catalogue.

write sth 'off 1 (business) to cancel a debt; to recognize that sth is a failure, has no value, etc.:to write off a debt / an investment 2 (BrE) to damage sth, especially a vehicle, so badly that it cannot be repairedrelated noun write-offsee also total write sb/sth 'off (as sth) to decide that sb/sth is a failure or not worth paying any attention to SYN dismiss write sth 'out to write sth on paper, including all the details, especially a piece of work or an account of sthsee also write (5) write sb 'out (of sth) to remove a character from a regular series on television or radio write sth 'up to record sth in writing in a full and complete form, often using notes that you made earlier:to write up your notes / the minutes of a meetingrelated noun write-up

He hasnt yet woken

up to the seriousness of the situation. off evil spirits. towards the idea.

Buffy chanted incantations to ward I must say Im beginning to warm Let the engine warm His doctor has warned him Finally, Sally was

up before you drive off. off drinking alcohol.

over her ex-boyfriend and felt like socializing again. for forged banknotes.

The staff were asked to watch out

Catherine's tan was beginning to wear Her patience had at last worn out.

off.

The new policy was desinged to weed

out corrupt party officials.

wake 'up to become more lively and interested:Wake up and listen!see also wake (1) wake sb 'up to make sb feel more lively:A cold shower will soon wake you up. The class needs waking up.see also wake (1) wake 'up to sth to become aware of sth; to realize sth:He hasnt yet woken up to the seriousness of the situation.

ward sb/sth 'off to protect or defend yourself against danger, illness, attack, etc.:to ward off criticism She put up her hands to ward him off.

warm 'down to do gentle exercises to help your body relax after doing a particular sport or activityrelated noun warm-down 'warm to / towards sb to begin to like sb:I warmed to her immediately. 'warm to / towards sth to become more interested in or enthusiastic about sth:The speaker was now warming to her theme.

warm 'up 1 to prepare for physical exercise or a performance by doing gentle exercises or practicerelated noun warm-up 2 (of a machine, an engine, etc.) to run for a short time in order to reach the temperature at which it will operate well warm 'up | warm sb/sth 'up to become more lively or enthusiastic; to make sb/sth more lively or enthusiastic:The party soon warmed up. warm sth 'up to heat previously cooked food again for eating

warn sb 'off (sth) 1 to tell sb to leave or stay away from a place or person, especially in a threatening way:The farmer warned us off his land when we tried to camp there. 2 to advise sb not to do sth or to stop doing sth:[+ -ing] We were warned off buying the house.

'watch for sb/sth to look and wait for sb/sth to appear or for sth to happen:The cat was on the wall, watching for birds. watch 'out (informal) used to warn sb about sth dangerous:Watch out! Theres a car coming! watch 'out for sb/sth 1 to make an effort to be aware of what is happening, so that you will notice if anything bad or unusual happens:The cashiers were asked to watch out for forged banknotes. 2 to be careful of sth:Watch out for the stairstheyre steep. watch 'over sb/sth (formal) to take care of sb/sth; to guard and protect sb/sth

wear a'way | wear sth a'way to become, or make sth become, gradually thinner or smoother by continuously using or rubbing it:The inscription on the coin had worn away. The steps had been worn away by the feet of thousands of pilgrims. wear 'down | wear sth 'down to become, or make sth become, gradually smaller or smoother by continuously using or rubbing it:Notice how the tread on this tyre has worn down. wear sb/sth 'down to make sb/sth weaker or less determined, especially by continuously attacking or putting pressure on them or it over a period of time:Her persistence paid off and she eventually wore me down. wear 'off to gradually disappear or stop:The effects of the drug will soon wear off. wear 'on (of time) to pass, especially in a way that seems slow:As the evening wore on, she became more and more nervous. wear 'out | wear sth 'out to become, or make sth become, thin or no longer able to be used, usually because it has been used too much:He wore out two pairs of shoes last year. wear yourself / sb 'out to make yourself/sb feel very tired:The kids have totally worn me out. Youll wear yourself out if you carry on working so hard.

weed sth/sb 'out to remove or get rid of people or things from a group because they are not wanted or are less good than the rest

Tot

up how much youve spent. on the central issue in the whole debate. with her food, as if she wasnt really hungry. down the reference in a dictionary of quotations. against their mother. down flat.

The article hardly touches She was just toying I finally tracked

After the divorce, he tried to turn the children I made them a reasonable offer but they turned it Astonishingly, a crowd of 50 000 turned

out to hear him. out to be worthless. to. up.

I gave good money for that camera, and it turned In times of crisis its good to have a friend to turn

We arranged to meet at the cinema at 7.30, but Grant never turned

tot sth 'up (informal, especially BrE) to add together several numbers or amounts in order to calculate the total SYN add up

touch 'down 1 (of a plane, spacecraft, etc.) to landrelated noun touchdown 2 (in rugby) to score a try by putting the ball on the ground behind the other teams goal linerelated noun touchdown 'touch sb for sth (informal) to persuade sb to give or lend you sth, especially money touch sth 'off to make sth begin, especially a difficult or violent situation 'touch on / upon sth to mention or deal with a subject in only a few words, without going into detail:In his speech he was only able to touch on a few aspects of the problem. touch sb 'up (BrE, informal) to touch sb sexually, usually in a way that is not expected or welcome SYN grope touch sth 'up to improve sth by changing or adding to it slightly:She was busy touching up her make-up in the mirror.

toy with sth 1 to consider an idea or a plan, but not very seriously and not for a long time SYN flirt with:I did briefly toy with the idea of living in France. 2 to play with sth and move it around carelessly or without thinking:He kept toying nervously with his pen. She hardly ate a thing, just toyed with a piece of cheese on her plate. (figurative)

track sb/sth'down to find sb/sth after searching in several different places SYN trace: The police have so far failed to track down the attacker.

back on 'track going in the right direction again after a mistake, failure, etc.:I tried to get my life back on track after my divorce. be on 'track to be doing the right thing in order to achieve a particular result:Curtis is on track for the gold medal. keep / lose track of sb/sth to have / not have information about what is happening or where sb/sth is:Bank statements help you keep track of where your money is going. I lost all track of time (= forgot what time it was). make 'tracks (informal) to leave a place, especially to go home on the right / wrong 'track thinking or behaving in the right / wrong way stop / halt sb in their 'tracks | stop / halt / freeze in your 'tracks to suddenly make sb stop by frightening or surprising them; to suddenly stop because sth has frightened or surprised you:The question stopped Alice in her tracks.

turn (sth) (around) if a game turns or sb turns it, it changes the way it is developing so that a different person or team starts to win

turn a'gainst sb | turn sb a'gainst sb to stop or make sb stop being friendly towards sb:She turned against her old friend. After the divorce he tried to turn the children against their mother. turn a'round / 'round | turn sb/sth a'round / 'round to change position or direction so as to face the other way; to make sb/sth do this:Turn around and let me look at your back. I turned my chair round to face the fire. turn a'round / 'round | turn sth a'round / 'round if a business, economy, etc. turns around or sb turns it around, it starts being

successful after it has been unsuccessful for a timerelated noun turnaround turn sb a'way (from sth) to refuse to allow sb to enter a place:Hundreds of people were turned away from the stadium (= because it was full). They had nowhere to stay so I couldnt turn them away. turn 'back | turn sb/sth 'back to return the way you have come; to make sb/sth do this:The weather became so bad that they had to turn back. (figurative) We said we would do itthere can be no turning back. Our car was turned back at the border. note at return turn sb/sth 'down to reject or refuse to consider an offer, a proposal, etc. or the person who makes it:Why did she turn down your invitation? He has been turned down for ten jobs so far. He asked her to marry him but she turned him down. turn sth 'down to reduce the noise, heat, etc. produced by a piece of equipment by moving its controls:Please turn the volume down. [+adj] He turned the lights down low. turn 'in 1 to face or curve towards the centre:Her feet turn in. 2 (old-fashioned) to go to bed turn sb 'in (informal) to take sb to the police or sb in authority because they have committed a crime:She threatened to turn him in to the police. He decided to turn himself in. turn sth 'in 1 to give back sth that you no longer need:You must turn in your pass when you leave the building. 2 (especially NAmE) to give sth to sb in authority:They turned in a petition with 80 000 signatures. I havent even turned in Mondays work yet. 3 to achieve a score, performance, profit, etc.:The champion turned in a superb performance to retain her title. turn 'in on yourself to become too concerned with your own problems and stop communicating with others turn (from sth) 'into sth to become sth:Our dream holiday turned into a nightmare. In one year she turned from a problem child into a model student. turn sb/sth (from sth) 'into sth to make sb/sth become sth:Ten years of prison had turned him into an old man. The prince was turned into a frog by the witch. turn 'off | turn 'off sth [no passive] to leave a road in order to travel on another:Is this where we turn off? The jet began to turn off the main runway. turn 'off (informal) to stop listening to or thinking about sb/sth:I couldnt understand the

lecture so I just turned off. turn sb 'off 1 to make sb feel bored or not interested:People had been turned off by both candidates in the election. 2 to stop sb feeling sexually attracted; to make sb have a feeling of disgustrelated noun turn-off turn sth 'off to stop the flow of electricity, gas, water, etc. by moving a switch, button, etc.:to turn off the light Please turn the television off before you go to bed. 'turn on sb to attack sb suddenly and unexpectedly:The dogs suddenly turned on each other. Why are you all turning on me (= criticizing or blaming me)? 'turn on sth [no passive] 1 (BrE) to depend on sth:Much turns on the outcome of the current peace talks. 2 [no passive] to have sth as it main topic:The discussion turned on the need to raise standards. turn sb 'on (informal) to make sb excited or interested, especially sexually:Jazz has never really turned me on. She gets turned on by men in uniform.related noun turn-on turn sb 'on (to sth) (informal) to make sb become interested in sth or to use sth for the first time:He turned her on to jazz. turn sth 'on to start the flow of electricity, gas, water, etc. by moving a switch, button, etc.:to turn on the heating Ill turn the television on. (figurative) He really knows how to turn on the charm (= suddenly become pleasant and attractive). turn 'out 1 to be present at an event:A vast crowd turned out to watch the procession.related noun turnout 2 (used with an adverb or adjective, or in questions with how) to happen in a particular way; to develop or end in a particular way:Despite our worries everything turned out well. You never know how your children will turn out. [+adj] If the day turns out wet, we may have to change our plans. 3 to point away from the centre:Her toes turn out. 4 to be discovered to be; to prove to be:[+ that] It turned out that she was a friend of my sister. [+ to inf] The job turned out to be harder than we thought. The house they had offered us turned out to be a tiny apartment. turn sb/sth 'out to produce sb/sth:The factory turns out 900 cars a week. turn sb 'out (of / from sth) to force sb to leave a place turn sth 'out

1 to switch a light or a source of heat off:Remember to turn out the lights when you go to bed. 2 (BrE) to clean sth thoroughly by removing the contents and organizing them again:to turn out the attic 3 to empty sth, especially your pockets 4 to make sth point away from the centre:She turned her toes out. turn 'over 1 to change position so that the other side is facing towards the outside or the top:If you turn over you might find it easier to get to sleep. The car skidded and turned over. (figurative) The smell made my stomach turn over (= made me feel sick). 2 (of an engine) to start or to continue to run 3 to change to another channel when you are watching television turn 'over sth to do business worth a particular amount of money in a particular period of time:The company turns over 3.5 million a year.related noun turnover turn sth 'over 1 to make sth change position so that the other side is facing towards the outside or the top:Brown the meat on one side, then turn it over and brown the other side. 2 to think about sth carefully:She kept turning over the events of the day in her mind. 3 (of a shop / store) to sell goods and replace them:A supermarket will turn over its stock very rapidly.related noun turnover 4 (informal) to steal from a place:Burglars had turned the house over. 5 to make an engine start running turn sb 'over to sb to deliver sb to the control or care of sb else, especially sb in authority:Customs officials turned the man over to the police. turn sth 'over to sb to give the control of sth to sb:He turned the business over to his daughter. turn sth 'over to sth to change the use or function of sth:The factory was turned over to the manufacture of aircraft parts. 'turn to sb/sth to go to sb/sth for help, advice, etc.:She has nobody she can turn to. turn 'up 1 to be found, especially by chance, after being lost:Dont worry about the letterIm sure itll turn up. 2 (of a person) to arrive:We arranged to meet at 7.30, but she never turned up. 3 (of an opportunity) to happen, especially by chance:Hes still hoping something (= for example, a job or a piece of luck) will turn up.related noun turn-up turn sth 'up 1 to increase the sound, heat, etc. of a piece of equipment:Could you turn the TV

up? [+adj] The music was turned up loud. 2 (BrE) to make a piece of clothing shorter by folding and sewing it up at the bottom OPP let downrelated noun turn-up 3 to find sth:Our efforts to trace him turned up nothing.

He talked his father It usually helps to talk

into lending him the car. over your problems with someone you trust. round to our way of thinking.

We finally managed to talk them Tear yourself She was torn

away from the television for one minute and listen to me. between love and duty. with salmon heading upstream to the mating grounds. away - it may come in handy.

The river was teeming

Dont throw that cardboard box Children do tie you This evidence ties He tipped

down, dont they? in with what we already know.

off the police about the robbery.

talk a'round / 'round sth to talk about sth in a general way without dealing with the most important parts of it 'talk at sb to speak to sb without listening to what they say in reply talk 'back (to sb) to answer sb rudely, especially sb in authorityrelated noun back talk talk sb/sth 'down to help a pilot of a plane to land by giving instructions from the ground talk sth 'down to make sth seem less important or successful than it really is:You shouldnt talk down your own achievements. talk 'down to sb to speak to sb as if they were less important or intelligent than you talk sb 'into / 'out of sth to persuade sb to do / not to do sth:I didnt want to move abroad but Bill talked me into it. [+ -ing] She tried to talk him out of leaving. talk sth 'out to discuss sth thoroughly in order to make a decision, solve a problem, etc. talk sth 'over (with sb) to discuss sth thoroughly, especially in order to reach an agreement or make a decision:Youll find it helpful to talk things over with a friend. talk sb 'round (to sth) (BrE) to persuade sb to accept sth or agree to sth:We finally managed to talk them round to our way of thinking. talk sb 'through sth to explain to sb how sth works so that they can do it or understand it:Can you talk me through the various investment options? talk sth 'through to discuss sth thoroughly until you are sure you understand it talk sb/sth 'up to describe sb/sth in a way that makes them sound better than they really are

tear yourself / sb (from sb/sth) to pull yourself/sb away by force from sb/sth that is holding you or them: [vn] She tore herself from his grasp. [vn-adj] He tore himself free.

tear sb a'part to make sb feel very unhappy or worried SYN rip sb apart: It tears me apart to think I might have hurt her feelings. tear sth a'part 1 to destroy sth violently, especially by pulling it to pieces:The dogs tore the fox apart. 2 to make people in a country, an organization or other place fight or argue with each other:Racial strife is tearing our country apart. 3 to search a place, making it look untidy and causing damage:They tore the room apart, looking for money. SYN rip sth apart 'tear at sth to pull or cut sth violently so that it tears:He tore at the meat with his bare hands. tear yourself a'way (from sth) | tear sth a'way (from sth) to leave somewhere even though you would prefer to stay there; to take sth away from somewhere:Dinners ready, if you can tear yourself away from the TV. She was unable to tear her eyes away from him (= could not stop looking at him). tear sth'down to pull or knock down a building, wall, etc. SYN demolish tear 'into sb/sth 1 to attack sb/sth physically or with words 2 to start doing sth with a lot of energy:They tore into their food as if they were starving. tear sth 'up to destroy a document, etc. by tearing it into pieces SYN rip sth up:She tore up all the letters he had sent her. (figurative) He accused the leader of tearing up the partys manifesto (= of ignoring it).

'teem with sth (usually be 'teeming with sth) to be full of people, animals, etc. moving around:The streets were teeming with tourists. a river teeming with fish

throw sth a'side to reject sth such as an attitude, a way of life, etc. 'throw yourself at sth/sb 1 to rush violently at sth/sb 2 (informal, disapproving) (usually of a woman) to be too enthusiastic in trying to attract a sexual partner throw sth a'way 1 (also throw sth 'out) to get rid of sth that you no longer want:I dont need thatyou can throw it away. That old chair should be thrown away. 2 to fail to make use of sth; to waste sth:to throw away an opportunitysee also throwaway throw sth 'back at sb to remind sb of sth they have said or done in the past, especially to upset or annoy them throw sb 'back on sth [usually passive] to force sb to rely on sth because nothing else is available:There was no TV so we were thrown back on our own resources (= had to entertain ourselves). throw sth 'in 1 to include sth with what you are selling or offering, without increasing the price:You can have the piano for $200, and Ill throw in the stool as well. 2 to add a remark to a conversation:Jack threw in the odd encouraging comment. throw yourself / sth 'into sth to begin to do sth with energy and enthusiasm throw sth/sb 'off 1 to manage to get rid of sth/sb that is making you suffer, annoying you, etc.:to throw off a cold / your worries / your pursuers 2 to take off a piece of clothing quickly and carelessly:She entered the room and threw off her wet coat. throw sth 'on to put on a piece of clothing quickly and carelessly:She just threw on the first skirt

she found. throw sth 'open (to sb) 1 to allow people to enter or visit a place where they could not go before 2 to allow people to discuss sth, take part in a competition, etc.:The debate will be thrown open to the audience. throw sb 'out (of ) to force sb to leave a place:Youll be thrown out if you dont pay the rent. throw sth 'out 1 to say sth in a way that suggests you have not given it a lot of thought:to throw out a suggestion 2 to decide not to accept a proposal, an idea, etc. 3= throw sth away 4 to produce smoke, light, heat, etc.:a small fire that threw out a lot of heat 5 to confuse sth or make it wrong:Our calculations of the cost of our trip were thrown out by changes in the exchange rate. throw sb 'over (old-fashioned) to stop being friends with sb or having a romantic relationship with them throw sb to'gether [often passive] to bring people into contact with each other, often unexpectedly:Fate had thrown them together. throw sth to'gether to make or produce sth in a hurry:I threw together a quick meal. throw 'up to vomit SYN be sick:The smell made me want to throw up. throw sth 'up 1 to vomit food SYN sick up:The babys thrown up her dinner. 2 to make people notice sth:Her research has thrown up some interesting facts. 3 to build sth suddenly or in a hurry:Theyre throwing up new housing estates all over the place. 4 to leave your job:to throw up your career

tie sb 'down (to sth / to doing sth) to restrict sbs freedom, for example by making them accept particular conditions or by keeping them busy:Kids tie you down, dont they? I dont want to tie myself

down to coming back on a particular date. tie 'in (with sth) to match or agree with sth:This evidence ties in closely with what we already know. tie 'in (with sth) | tie sth 'in (with sth) to link sth or be linked to sth; to happen, or arrange for sth to happen, at the same time as sth else:The concert will tie in with the festival of dance taking place the same weekend.related noun tie-in tie sth 'off to put a knot in the end of sth; to close sth with string, thread, etc.:to tie off a rope to tie off an artery tie 'up | tie sth 'up 1 to attach a boat to a fixed object with a rope:We tied up alongside the quay. We tied the boat up. 2 to close sth with a knot; to be closed or fastened with a knot:to tie up a garbage bag tie sb 'up 1 to tie sbs arms and legs tightly so that they cannot move or escape:The gang tied up a security guard. 2 [usually passive] to keep sb busy so that they have no time for other things:Im tied up in a meeting until 3. tie sth 'up 1 to attach an animal to sth with a rope, chain, etc.:He left his dog tied up to a tree. 2 [usually passive] to connect or link sth to sth else:Her behaviour is tied up with her feelings of guilt.related noun tie-up 3 [often passive] to invest money so that it is not easily available for use:Most of the capital is tied up in property. 4 to deal with all the remaining details of sth:We are hoping to tie up the deal by tomorrow. I went into the office for an hour to tie up any loose ends (= finish remaining small jobs).

tip sb 'off (about sth) (informal) to warn sb about sth that is going to happen, especially sth illegal:Three men were arrested after police were tipped off about the raid. [+ that] They were tipped off that he might be living in Wales.related noun tip-off tip 'up / 'over | tip sth 'up / 'over to fall or turn over; to make sth do this:The mug tipped over, spilling hot coffee everywhere. Well have to tip the sofa up to get it through the door.

The last paragraph seems to have been tacked If youre going to the cinema, do you mind if I tag Traffic is tailing I was somewhat taken I take

on as an afterthought. along with you?

back five miles from the scene of the accident. aback by his rudeness.

back what I said about you being selfish. on a more serious tone. out on me!

His voice took

I know youve had a bad day but theres no need to take it His greatest wish was for his daughter to take She took

over the business.

to tennis as if shed been playing it all her life. on it some time.

Thanks for the invitation - we may take you up

tack sth 'on | tack sth 'onto sth (informal) to add sth to sth that already exists, especially in a careless way:The poems were tacked on at the end of the book.

tag a'long (behind / with sb) to go somewhere with sb, especially when you have not been asked or invited tag sth 'on | tag sth 'onto sth

to add sth to the end of sth that already exists, especially in a careless way:An apology was tagged onto the end of the letter.

tail a'way / 'off (especially BrE) to become smaller or weaker:The number of tourists tails off in October. But why ? Her voice tailed away. tail 'back (of traffic) to form a tailback

take sth (from sb) to capture a place or person; to get control of sth:[vn] The rebels succeeded in taking the town. The state has taken control of the company. [vn-n] The rebels took him prisoner. He was taken prisoner by the rebels.

take A (away) from B | take A away (not used in the progressive tenses) to reduce one number by the value of another SYN subtract:Take 5 from 12 and youre left with 7. (informal) 80 take away 5 is 75.

take sth (as sth) (not used in the progressive tenses) to understand or consider sth in a particular way:[vn] She took what he said as a compliment. How am I supposed to take that remark? Taken overall, the project was a success. [vn to inf] What did you take his comments to mean?

take sb/sth for sb/sth / to be sb/sth (not used in the progressive tenses) to consider sb/sth to be sb/sth, especially when you are wrong:[vn] Even the experts took the painting for a genuine Van Gogh. Of course I didnt do it! What do you take me for (= what sort of person do you think I am)? [vn to inf] I took the man with him to be his father. take sb (for sth) | take sth to be the teacher or leader in a class or a religious service:The head teacher usually takes us for French.

take sb a'back [usually passive] to shock or surprise sb very much take 'after sb [no passive] 1 (not used in the progressive tenses) to look or behave like an older member of your family, especially your mother or father:Your daughter doesnt take after you at all. 2 (NAmE, informal) to follow sb quickly:I was afraid that if I started running the man would take after me. take a'gainst sb/sth [no passive] (old-fashioned, BrE) to start not liking sb/sth for no clear reason take sb/sth a'part (informal) 1 to defeat sb easily in a game or competition 2 to criticize sb/sth severely take sth a'part to separate a machine or piece of equipment into the different parts that it is made of SYN dismantle take sth a'way 1 to make a feeling, pain, etc. disappear:I was given some pills to take away the pain. 2 (BrE) (NAmE take sth 'out) to buy cooked food at a restaurant and carry it away to eat, for example at home:Two burgers to take away, please.related noun takeaway, takeout take a'way from sth [no passive] to make the effort or value of sth seem less SYN detract from:I dont want to take away from his achievements, but he couldnt have done it without my help.

take sb 'back to allow sb, such as your husband, wife or partner, to come home after they have left because of a problem take sb 'back (to ) to make sb remember sth:The smell of the sea took him back to his childhood. take sth 'back 1 if you take sth back to a shop / store, or a shop / store takes sth back, you return sth that you have bought there, for example because it is the wrong size or does not work 2 to admit that sth you said was wrong or that you should not have said it:OK, I take it all back! take sth 'down 1 to remove a structure, especially by separating it into pieces:to take down a tent 2 to pull down a piece of clothing worn below the waist without completely removing it:to take down your trousers / pants 3 to write sth down:Reporters took down every word of his speech. take sb 'in 1 to allow sb to stay in your home:to take in lodgers He was homeless, so we took him in. 2 [often passive] to make sb believe sth that is not true SYN deceive:Dont be taken in by his charmhes ruthless. note at cheat take sth 'in 1 to absorb sth into the body, for example by breathing or swallowing:Fish take in oxygen through their gills.related noun intake 2 to make a piece of clothing narrower or tighter OPP let out 3 [no passive] to include or cover sth:The tour takes in six European capitals. 4 [no passive] to go to see or visit sth such as a film / movie:I generally take in a show when Im in New York. 5 to take notice of sth with your eyes:He took in every detail of her appearance. 6 to understand or remember sth that you hear or read:Halfway through the chapter I realized I hadnt taken anything in. take 'off 1 (of an aircraft, etc.) to leave the ground and begin to fly:The plane took off an hour late.related noun take-off OPP land 2 (informal) to leave a place, especially in a hurry:When he saw me coming he took off in the opposite direction. 3 (of an idea, a product, etc.) to become successful or popular very quickly or suddenly:The new magazine has really taken off. take sb 'off

1 to copy sbs voice, actions or manner in an amusing way SYN impersonate 2 (in sports, entertainment, etc.) to make sb stop playing, acting, etc. and leave the field or the stage:He was taken off after twenty minutes. take sth 'off 1 to remove sth, especially a piece of clothing from your/sbs body:to take off your coat He took off my wet boots and made me sit by the fire. OPP put on 2 to have a period of time as a break from work:Ive decided to take a few days off next week. 3 [often passive] to stop a public service, television programme, performances of a show, etc.:The show was taken off because of poor audience figures. 4 to remove some of sbs hair, part of sbs body, etc.:The hairdresser asked me how much she should take off. The explosion nearly took his arm off. take yourself / sb 'off (to ) (informal) to leave a place; to make sb leave a place take sb 'off sth [often passive] to remove sb from sth such as a job, position, piece of equipment, etc.:The officer leading the investigation has been taken off the case. After three days she was taken off the ventilator. take sth 'off sth 1 to remove an amount of money or a number of marks, points, etc. in order to reduce the total:The manager took $10 off the bill. That experience took ten years off my life (= made me feel ten years older). 2 [often passive] to stop sth from being sold:The slimming pills were taken off the market. take sb 'on 1 to employ sb:to take on new staff She was taken on as a trainee. 2 [no passive] to play against sb in a game or contest; to fight against sb:to take somebody on at tennis The rebels took on the entire Roman army. take sth 'on [no passive] to begin to have a particular quality, appearance, etc.:The chameleon can take on the colours of its background. His voice took on a more serious tone. take sth/sb 'on 1 to decide to do sth; to agree to be responsible for sth/sb:I cant take on any extra work. Were not taking on any new clients at present. 2 (of a bus, plane or ship) to allow sb/sth to enter:The bus stopped to take on more passengers. The ship took on more fuel at Freetown. take sb 'out to go to a restaurant, theatre, club, etc. with sb you have invited take sb/sth 'out (informal) to kill sb or destroy sth:They took out two enemy bombers. take sth 'out 1 to remove sth from inside sbs body, especially a part of it:How many teeth did the dentist take out?

2 to obtain an official document or service:to take out an insurance policy / a mortgage / a loan to take out an ad in a newspaper 3 (NAmE) = take sth away (2) take sth 'out (against sb) to start legal action against sb by means of an official document:The police have taken out a summons against the driver of the car. take sth 'out (of sth) to obtain money by removing it from your bank account take sth 'out of sth to remove an amount of money from a larger amount, especially as a payment:The fine will be taken out of your wages. take it / sth 'out on sb to behave in an unpleasant way towards sb because you feel angry, disappointed, etc., although it is not their fault:OK, so you had a bad day. Dont take it out on me. She tended to take her frustrations out on her family. take sb 'out of himself / herself to make sb forget their worries and become less concerned with their own thoughts and situation take 'over (from sth) to become bigger or more important than sth else; to replace sth:Try not to let negative thoughts take over. It has been suggested that mammals took over from dinosaurs 65 million years ago. take 'over (from sb) | take sth 'over (from sb) 1 to begin to have control of or responsibility for sth, especially in place of sb else 2 to gain control of a political party, a country, etc.:The army is threatening to take over if civil unrest continues. take sth 'over to gain control of a business, a company, etc., especially by buying shares:CBS Records was taken over by Sony.related noun takeover take sb 'through sth to help sb learn or become familiar with sth, for example by talking about each part in turn:The director took us through the play scene by scene. 'take to sth [no passive] 1 to go away to a place, especially to escape from danger:The rebels took to the hills. 2 to begin to do sth as a habit:[+ -ing] Ive taken to waking up very early. 3 to develop an ability for sth:She took to tennis as if shed been playing all her life. 'take to sb/sth [no passive] to start liking sb/sth:I took to my new boss immediately. He hasnt taken to his new school. take 'up to continue, especially starting after sb/sth else has finished:The bands new

album takes up where their last one left off. take 'up sth to fill or use an amount of space or time:The table takes up too much room. I wont take up any more of your time. take sth 'up 1 to make sth such as a piece of clothing shorter:This skirt needs taking up. OPP let down 2 to learn or start to do sth, especially for pleasure:Theyve taken up golf. She has taken up (= started to learn to play) the oboe. 3 to start or begin sth such as a job:He takes up his duties next week. 4 to join in singing or saying sth:to take up the chorus Their protests were later taken up by other groups. 5 to continue sth that sb else has not finished, or that has not been mentioned for some time:She took up the story where Tim had left off. Id like to take up the point you raised earlier. 6 to move into a particular position:I took up my position by the door. 7 to accept sth that is offered or available:to take up a challenge She took up his offer of a drink. take 'up with sb (informal) to begin to be friendly with sb, especially sb with a bad reputation take sb 'up on sth 1 to question sb about sth, because you do not agree with them:I must take you up on that point. 2 (informal) to accept an offer, a bet, etc. from sb:Thanks for the invitationwell take you up on it some time. take sth 'up with sb to speak or write to sb about sth that they may be able to deal with or help you with:They decided to take the matter up with their MP. be taken 'up with sth/sb to be giving all your time and energy to sth/sb be 'taken with sb/sth to find sb/sth attractive or interesting:We were all very taken with his girlfriend. I think hes quite taken with the idea.

If the police had not stepped Stick

in when they did there would have been a serious incident.

around, we may need you.

If we stick

at it, we should finish the job today. by her in good times and bad. out.

Her husband stuck

They wrote the notice in big red letters to make it stick Dont wander from the subject stick to the point.

He can behave badly at times but hed never stoop Most of my friends use word processors but I still swear I think Ive met him before, but I couldnt swear

to stealing. by my old typewriter.

to it. off.

After a busy day at work I just want to relax and switch

step a'side / 'down to leave an important job or position and let sb else take your place step 'back (from sth) to think about a situation calmly, as if you are not involved in it yourself:We are learning to step back from ourselves and identify our strengths and weaknesses. step 'forward to offer to help sb or give information step 'in to help sb in a disagreement or difficult situation:A local businessman stepped in with a large donation for the school. The team coach was forced to step in to stop the two athletes from coming to blows. step 'out (especially NAmE) to go out:Im just going to step out for a few minutes. step 'up to come forward:She stepped up to receive her prize. step sth 'up to increase the amount, speed, etc. of sth:He has stepped up his training to prepare for the race.

sb can stick sth (informal) [vn] used to say in a rude and angry way that you are not interested in what sb has, offers, does, etc.:I got sick of my bosss moaning and told him he could stick the job. [v] stick (in sth) to become fixed in one position and impossible to move SYN jam:The key has stuck in the lock. This drawer keeps sticking. stick a'round (informal) to stay in a place, waiting for sth to happen or for sb to arrive:Stick around; well need you to help us later. 'stick at sth to continue to work in a serious and determined way to achieve sth:If you want to play an instrument well, youve got to stick at it. 'stick by sb [no passive] to be loyal to a person and support them, especially in a difficult situation 'stick by sth [no passive] to do what you promised or planned to do:They stuck by their decision. stick sth 'down (informal) to write sth somewhere:I think Ill stick my name down on the list. stick 'out to be noticeable or easily seen:They wrote the notice in big red letters so that it would stick out. SYN stand out stick 'out (of sth) | stick sth 'out (of sth) to be further out than sth else or come through a hole; to push sth further out than sth else or through a hole:His ears stick out. She stuck her tongue out at me. Dont stick your arm out of the car window. stick it / sth 'out (informal) to continue doing sth to the end, even when it is difficult or boring:She didnt like the course but she stuck it out to get the certificate. stick 'out for sth (informal) to refuse to give up until you get what you need or want:They are sticking out for a higher pay rise. 'stick to sth 1 to continue doing sth despite difficulties:She finds it impossible to stick to a diet.

2 to continue doing or using sth and not want to change it:He promised to help us and he stuck to his word (= he did as he had promised). Shall we meet on Friday this week? No, lets stick to Saturday. She stuck to her story. stick to'gether (informal) (of people) to stay together and support each other stick 'up to point upwards or be above a surface:The branch was sticking up out of the water. stick 'up for sb / yourself / sth [no passive] to support or defend sb/yourself/sth:Stick up for what you believe. She taught her children to stick up for themselves at school. Dont worryIll stick up for you. 'stick with sb/sth [no passive] (informal) 1 to stay close to sb so that they can help you 2 to continue with sth or continue doing sth:They decided to stick with their original plan.

stoop to sth to drop your moral standards to do sth bad or unpleasant:You surely dont think Id stoop to that! [+ -ing] I didnt think hed stoop to cheating.

swear (at sb/sth) to use rude or offensive language, usually because you are angry:She fell over and swore loudly. Why did you let him swear at you like that? swear (to sb) | swear (on sth) to promise that you are telling the truth:[v (that)] She swore (that) shed never seen him before. I could have sworn (= I am sure) I heard the phone ring. [v] I swear to God I had nothing to do with it.

swear (on sth) to make a public or official promise, especially in court:[v] Witnesses were required to swear on the Bible. [v that] Are you willing to stand up in court and swear that you dont recognize him? [v to inf] Remember, you

have sworn to tell the truth. [vn] Barons had to swear an oath of allegiance to the king.

swear sb to secrecy / silence to make sb promise not to tell sth to anyone:Everyone was sworn to secrecy about what had happened.

'swear by sb/sth 1 to name sb/sth to show that you are making a serious promise:I swear by almighty God that I will tell the truth. 2 (not used in the progressive tenses) to be certain that sth is good or useful:She swears by meditation as a way of relieving stress. swear sb 'in | swear sb 'into sth [often passive] to make sb promise to do a job correctly, to be loyal to an organization, a country, etc.:He was sworn in as president. The new prime minister was sworn into office.related noun swearing-in 'swear to sth (informal) to say that sth is definitely true:I think I put the keys back in the drawer, but I couldnt swear to it (= Im not completely sure).

1 switch (sth) (over) (from sth) (to sth) | switch (between A and B) to change or make sth change from one thing to another:[v] Were in the process of switching over to a new system of invoicing. Press these two keys to switch between documents on screen. [vn] When did you switch jobs? 2 [vn] switch sth (with sth) | switch sth (over / around / round) to exchange one thing for another SYN swap:The dates of the last two exams have been switched. I see youve switched the furniture around (= changed its position). Do you think shell notice if I switch my glass with hers? 3 switch (sth) (with sb) | switch (sth) (over / around / round) to do sb elses job for a short time or work during different hours so that they can do your job or work during your usual hours SYN swap: [v] I cant work next weekendwill you switch with me? [vn] Have you been able to switch your shift with anyone?

switch 'off (informal) to stop thinking about sth or paying attention to sth:When I hear the word football I switch off (= because I am not interested in it). The only time he really switches off (= stops thinking about work, etc.) is when were on vacation. switch 'off / 'on | switch sth 'off / 'on to turn a light, machine, etc. off / on by pressing a button or switch:Please switch the lights off as you leave. How do you switch this thing on? switch 'over | switch sth 'over (BrE) to change stations on a radio or television

I hate to spring this

on you at such short notice. with the area manager first. in between

Im happy for you to proceed, but youd better square it

Dr Jacksons very busy this morning but she could probably squeeze you appointments. Many people are looking to the new council to stamp How can you stand He wont stand out corruption.

by and let him treat his dog like that? for any nonsense from the staff. in for me while Im away. out from the rest. to close scrutiny.

My assistant will stand

In a long career, certain memories stand His argument simply doesnt stand up

Her passion for India stems

from the time she spent there as a child.

spring sth (on sb) to do sth, ask sth or say sth that sb is not expecting:She sprang a surprise by winning the tournament. Im sorry to spring it on you, but Ive been offered another job.

'spring for sth (NAmE, informal) to pay for sth for sb else:Ill spring for the drinks tonight. 'spring from sth (formal) to be caused by sth; to start from sth:The idea for the novel sprang from a trip to India. 'spring from (informal) to appear suddenly and unexpectedly from a particular place:Where on earth did you spring from? spring 'up to appear or develop quickly and/or suddenly

squeeze sth (out of / from sth) | squeeze sth (out) to get liquid out of sth by pressing or twisting it hard:[vn] to squeeze the juice from a lemon He took off his wet clothes and squeezed the water out. freshly squeezed orange juice (figurative) She felt as if every drop of emotion had been squeezed from her. [also vn-adj] squeeze (sb/sth) into, through, etc. sth | squeeze through, in, past, etc. to force sb/sth/yourself into or through a small space:[vn] We managed to squeeze six people into the car. (figurative) We managed to squeeze a lot into a week (=

we did a lot of different things). [v] to squeeze into a tight dress / a parking space to squeeze through a gap in the hedge If you move forward a little, I can squeeze past. [vn] squeeze sb (for sth) (informal) to get sth by putting pressure on sb, threatening them, etc.:Hes squeezing me for 500.

squeeze sb/sth 'in to give time to sb/sth, although you are very busy:If you come this afternoon the doctor will try to squeeze you in. squeeze sb/sth 'out (of sth) to prevent sb/sth from continuing to do sth or be in business:Supermarkets are squeezing out small shops. squeeze sth 'out of / 'from sb to get sth by putting pressure on sb, threatening them, etc.:to squeeze a confession from a suspect squeeze 'up (against sb/sth) | squeeze sb 'up (against sb/sth) to move close to sb/sth so that you are pressed against them / it:Therell be enough room if we all squeeze up a little. I sat squeezed up against the wall.

[vn] [often passive] stamp A on B | stamp B (with A) to print letters, words, a design, etc. onto sth using a special tool:Ill stamp the company name on your cheque. Wait here to have your passport stamped. The makers name was stamped in gold on the box. The box was stamped with the makers name.

stamp sb as sth to show that sb has a particular quality: Her success has stamped her as one of the country s top riders.

stamp sth (out) (of / from sth) to cut and shape an object from a piece of metal or plastic using a special machine or tool

'stamp on sth 1 to put your foot down with force on sth:The child stamped on the spider. 2 to stop sth from happening or stop sb from doing sth, especially by using force or authority:All attempts at modernization were stamped on by senior officials. 'stamp sth on sth to make sth have an important effect or influence on sth:She stamped her own interpretation on the role. stamp sth 'out 1 to get rid of sth that is bad, unpleasant or dangerous, especially by using force or a lot of effort SYN eliminate:to stamp out racism 2 to put out a fire by bringing your foot down heavily on it

stand at sth to be at a particular level, amount, height, etc.: Interest rates stand at 3. The world record then stood at 6.59 metres.

stand (on sth) to have a particular attitude or opinion about sth or towards sb: Where do you stand on private education?

stand (for / as sth ) to be a candidate in an election:He stood for parliament (= tried to get elected as an MP). She stood unsuccessfully as a candidate in the local elections.

stand a'side 1 to move to one side:She stood aside to let us pass. 2 to not get involved in sth:Dont stand aside and let others do all the work. 3 to stop doing a job so sb else can do it stand 'back (from sth) 1 to move back from a place:The police ordered the crowd to stand back. 2 to be located away from sth:The house stands back from the road. 3 to think about a situation as if you are not involved in it:Its time to stand back and look at your career so far. stand be'tween sb/sth and sth to prevent sb from getting or achieving sth:Only one game stood between him and victory. stand 'by 1 to be present while sth bad is happening but not do anything to stop it:How can you stand by and see him accused of something he didnt do?related noun bystander 2 to be ready for action:The troops are standing by.related noun standby 'stand by sb to help sb or be friends with them, even in difficult situations:her famous song, Stand by your man 'stand by sth to still believe or agree with sth you said, decided or agreed earlier:She still stands by every word she said. stand 'down 1 stand (as sth) to leave a job or position:He stood down to make way for someone younger. 2 (of a witness) to leave the witness box / stand in court after giving evidence 'stand for sth [no passive] 1 (not used in the progressive tenses) to be an abbreviation or symbol of sth:The books by T.C. Smith. What does the T.C. stand for? 2 to support sth:I hated the organization and all it stood for (= the ideas that it supported). 3 not stand for sth to not let sb do sth or sth happen:Im not standing for it any

longer. stand 'in (for sb) to take sbs place SYN deputize:My assistant will stand in for me while Im away.related noun stand-in stand 'out (as sth) to be much better or more important than sb/sth:Four points stand out as being more important than the rest.see also outstanding stand 'out (from / against sth) to be easily seen; to be noticeable:The lettering stood out well against the dark background. Shes the sort of person who stands out in a crowd. stand 'over sb be near sb and watch them:I dont like you standing over me while Im cooking. stand 'up to be on your feet:There were no seats left so I had to stand up. Youll look taller if you stand up straight. stand sb 'up (informal) to deliberately not meet sb you have arranged to meet, especially sb you are having a romantic relationship with:Ive been stood up! stand 'up for sb/sth to support or defend sb/sth:Always stand up for your friends. You must stand up for your rights. She had learnt to stand up for herself. stand 'up (to sth) to remain valid even when tested, examined closely, etc.:His argument simply doesnt stand up to close scrutiny. Im afraid this document will never stand up in a court of law. stand 'up to sb to resist sb; to not accept bad treatment from sb without complaining:It was brave of her to stand up to those bullies. stand 'up to sth (of materials, products, etc.) to remain in good condition despite rough treatment SYN withstand:The carpet is designed to stand up to a lot of wear and tear.

stem from sth (not used in the progressive tenses) to be the result of sth

She always sides

with her son against her husband. out any particular person. on it first.

It would be a mistake to single

Dont say now if youll take the job - sleep The government slipped

up badly in not releasing the documents sooner. up.

The cheapest articles in the sale were quickly snapped Sort out the smaller plants and throw them away.

She has already sounded

out her colleagues about her proposals for the department. out again?

My instructions were simple enough - do I have to spell them She splashed out on a new pair of shoes. up.

He used to play in a rock band before it split

side with sb (against sb/sth) to support one person or group in an argument against sb else:The kids always sided with their mother against me.

single sb/sth 'out (for sth / as sb/sth) to choose sb/sth from a group for special attention:She was singled out for criticism. He was singled out as the outstanding performer of the games.

sleep a'round (informal, disapproving) to have sex with a lot of different people sleep 'in to sleep until after the time you usually get up in the morning sleep sth'off to get better after sth, especially drinking too much alcohol, by sleeping:Lets leave him to sleep it off. 'sleep on sth (informal) to delay making a decision about sth until the next day, so that you have time to think about it:Could I sleep on it and let you know tomorrow? sleep 'over to stay the night at sb elses home:Its very late nowwhy dont you sleep over? Can I sleep over at my friends house?related noun sleepover 'sleep together | 'sleep with sb (informal) to have sex with sb, especially sb you are not married to:I know hes going out with her, but I dont think theyre sleeping together. Everyone knows she sleeps with the boss.

slip (over) to slide a short distance by accident so that you fall or nearly fall:She slipped over on the ice and broke her leg. As I ran up the stairs, my foot slipped and I fell.

slip a'way to stop existing; to disappear or die:Their support gradually slipped away. slip 'out

when sth slips out, you say it without really intending to:Im sorry I said that. It just slipped out. slip 'up (informal) to make a careless mistake:We cant afford to slip up.related noun slip-up

snap (sth) (off) to break sth suddenly with a sharp noise; to be broken in this way:[vn] The wind had snapped the tree in two. He snapped a twig off a bush. [v] Suddenly, the rope snapped. The branch she was standing on must have snapped off.

snap (at sb) to speak or say sth in an impatient, usually angry, voice:[v speech] Dont just stand there, she snapped. [v] I was tempted to snap back angrily at him. [vn] He snapped a reply.

snap (at sb/sth) to try to bite sb/sth SYN nip: The dogs snarled and snapped at our heels.

snap sth 'out to say sth in a sharp unpleasant way:The sergeant snapped out an order. snap sth 'up to buy or obtain sth quickly because it is cheap or you want it very much:All the best bargains were snapped up within hours. (figurative) Shes been snapped up by Hollywood to star in two major movies.

sort itself 'out (of a problem) to stop being a problem without anyone having to take action:It will all sort itself out in the end. sort sth 'out 1 (informal) to organize the contents of sth; to tidy sth:The cupboards need sorting out. 2 to organize sth successfully:If youre going to the bus station, can you sort out the tickets for tomorrow? sort sth 'out (from sth) to separate sth from a larger group:Could you sort out the toys that can be thrown away?related noun sort-out sort sth/sb / yourself 'out (especially BrE) to deal with sbs/your own problems successfully:If you can wait a moment, Ill sort it all out for you. You load up the car and Ill sort the kids out. sort sb 'out (informal) to deal with sb who is causing trouble, etc. especially by punishing or attacking them:Wait till I get my hands on himIll soon sort him out! 'sort through sth (for sth) to look through a number of things, either in order to find sth or to put them in order:I sorted through my paperwork. She sorted through her suitcase for something to wear.

sound 'off (about sth) (informal, disapproving) to express your opinions loudly or in an aggressive way sound sb 'out (about / on sth) | sound sth 'out to try to find out from sb what they think about sth, often in an indirect way:I wanted to sound him out about a job. They decided to sound out her interest in the project.

spell sth 'out 1 to explain sth in a simple, clear way:You know what I meanIm sure I dont need to spell it out. [+ wh-] Let me spell out why we need more money. 2to say or write the letters of a word in the right order:Could you spell that name out again?

splash sth (on / onto / over sb/sth) | splash sb/sth (with sth) to make sb/sth wet by making water, mud, etc. fall on them / it:He splashed cold water on his face. He splashed his face with cold water. My clothes were splashed with mud. Stop splashing me!

splash sth with sth [usually passive] to decorate sth with areas of bright colour, not in a regular pattern:The walls were splashed with patches of blue and purple.

'splash sth across / over sth to put a photograph, news story, etc. in a place where it will be easily noticed splash 'down (of a spacecraft) to land in the sea or oceanrelated noun splashdown splash 'out (on sth) | splash sth 'out (on / for sth) (BrE, informal) to spend a lot of money on sth:Were going to splash out and buy a new car. He splashed out hundreds of pounds on designer clothes.

split (sth) (into sth) to divide, or to make sth divide, into two or more parts:[vn] She split the class into groups of four. [v] The results split neatly into two groups.

split sth (between sb/sth) | split sth (with sb) to divide sth into two or more parts and share it between different people, activities, etc.:She split the money she won with her brother. His time is split between the London and Paris offices.

split (sth) (open) to tear, or to make sth tear, along a straight line:[v] Her dress had split along the seam. [v-adj] The cushion split open and sent feathers everywhere. [vn] Dont tell me youve split another pair of pants! [also vn-adj]

split sth (open) to cut sbs skin and make it bleed:[vn-adj] She split her head open on the cupboard door. [vn] How did you split your lip?

split (from / with sb) to leave sb and stop having a relationship with them:The singer split with his wife last June. She intends to split from the band at the end of the tour.

split a'way / 'off (from sth) | split sth a'way / 'off (from sth) to separate from, or to separate sth from, a larger object or group:A rebel faction has split away from the main group. The storm split a branch off from the main trunk. 'split on sb (to sb) (BrE, informal) to tell sb in authority about sth wrong, dishonest etc. that sb else has done:Dont worryhe wont split on us. split 'up (with sb) to stop having a relationship with sb:My parents split up last year. Shes split up with her boyfriend. split sb 'up to make two people stop having a relationship with each other:My friend is doing her best

to split us up. split sb 'up | split 'up to divide a group of people into smaller parts; to become divided up in this way:We were split up into groups to discuss the question. Lets split up now and meet again at lunchtime. split sth 'up to divide sth into smaller parts:The day was split up into 6 one-hour sessions.

It took the class a while to settle

down at the start of the lesson. for a draw.

They had hoped to win the match easily but in the end had to settle We only moved house last week and we havent settled Have they settled Weve got to shake If you dont shape on a name for the baby yet? up all these people with old-fashioned ideas. up youll fail your exams. out the money for their party. in yet.

The children expect me to shell Just shove He likes to show

off and leave me alone! off how well he speaks French. off blame for the economic crisis.

The government is trying to shrug

settle (back) to make yourself or sb else comfortable in a new position:[v] Ellie settled back in her seat. [vn] He settled himself comfortably in his usual chair. I settled her on the sofa and put a blanket over her. settle (on / over sth) to fall from above and come to rest on sth; to stay for some time on sth:Dust had settled on everything. Two birds settled on the fence. I dont think the snow will settle (= remain on the ground without melting). His gaze settled on her face.

settle sth | settle (up) (with sb) to pay the money that you owe:[vn] Please settle your bill before leaving the hotel. The insurance company is refusing to settle her claim. [v] Let me settle with you for the meal. Ill pay nowwe can settle up later.

settle a 'score / an ac'count (with sb) | settle an old 'score to hurt or punish sb who has harmed or cheated you in the past:Who would do such a thing? Maybe someone with an old score to settle.

settle 'down 1 to get into a comfortable position, either sitting or lying:I settled down with a book. 2 to start to have a quieter way of life, living in one place:When are you going to get married and settle down?

settle 'down | settle sb 'down to become or make sb become calm, less excited, etc.:It always takes the class a while to settle down at the start of the lesson. settle (down) to sth to begin to give your attention to sth:They finally settled down to a discussion of the main issues. He found it hard to settle to his work. 'settle for sth to accept sth that is not exactly what you want but is the best that is available:In the end they had to settle for a draw. I couldnt afford the house I really wanted, so I had to settle for second best. settle 'in | settle 'into sth to move into a new home, job, etc. and start to feel comfortable there:How are the kids settling into their new school? 'settle on sth to choose or make a decision about sth after thinking about it:Have you settled on a name for the baby yet? 'settle sth on sb (law) to formally arrange to give money or property to sb, especially in a will

shake-up (in / of sth) a situation in which a lot of changes are made to a company, an organization, etc. in order to improve the way in which it works:a management shake-up

shake 'down (informal) to become familiar with a new situation and begin to work well in it shake sb/sth 'down (NAmE, informal) 1 to search a person or place in a very thorough wayrelated noun shakedown 2 to threaten sb in order to get money from them shake sb 'off to get away from sb who is chasing or following you 'shake on sth to shake hands in order to show that sth has been agreed:They shook on the deal. Lets shake on it. shake sth 'out to open or spread sth by shaking, especially so that bits of dirt, dust, etc. come off it:to shake out a duster shake sb 'up to surprise sb and make them think about sth in a different way, become more active, etc. shake sth 'up

to make important changes in an organization, a profession, etc. in order to make it more efficientrelated noun shake-up

'shape up or ship 'out (NAmE, informal) used to tell sb that if they do not improve, work harder, etc. they will have to leave their job, position, etc.:He finally faced up to his drug problem when his band told him to shape up or ship out.

shape 'up 1 to develop in a particular way, especially in a good way:Our plans are shaping up nicely (= showing signs that they will be successful). 2 (informal) to improve your behaviour, work harder, etc.:If he doesnt shape up, hell soon be out of a job.

shell 'out (for sth) | shell sth 'out (for sth) (informal) to pay a lot of money for sth SYN fork out:The band shelled out $100 000 for a mobile recording studio. note at spend

shove 'off (BrE, informal) used to tell sb rudely to go away shove 'up (BrE, informal) to move in order to make a space for sb to sit down beside you:Shove up! Jan wants to sit down.

show sb a'round / 'round (sth) to be a guide for sb when they visit a place for the first time to show them what is interesting:We were shown around the school by one of the students. Has anyone shown you round yet? show 'off (informal, disapproving) to try to impress others by talking about your abilities, possessions, etc.:Hes just showing off because that girl he likes is here.related noun show-off show sb/sth 'off 1 to show people sb/sth that you are proud of:She wanted to show off her new husband at the party. [+ wh-] He likes to show off how well he speaks French. 2 (of clothing) to make sb look attractive, by showing their best features:a dress that shows off her figure show 'through | show 'through sth to be able to be seen behind or under sth else:The writing on the other side of the page shows through. (figurative) When he spoke, his bitterness showed through. Veins showed through her pale skin. show 'up (informal) to arrive where you have arranged to meet sb or do sth:It was getting late when she finally showed up. show 'up | show sth 'up to become visible; to make sth become visible:a broken bone showed up on the X-ray The harsh light showed up the lines on her face. show sb 'up 1 (BrE, informal) to make sb feel embarrassed by behaving badly:He showed me up by snoring during the concert. 2 to make sb feel embarrassed by doing sth better than them

shrug sth 'off / a'side to treat sth as if it is not important SYN dismiss:Shrugging off her injury, she played on. He shrugged aside suggestions that he resign. shrug sb/sth 'off / a'way to push sb/sth back or away with your shoulders:Kevin shrugged off his jacket She shrugged him away angrily.

Ive been saddled

with the job of organizing the conference. up her face. off.

The bitter drink made her screw We all went to the airport to see her We saw

through him from the start. on my mistake.

The critics seized They set

about dealing with the problem in a purposeful way. apart from most other journalists.

Her clear and elegant prose sets her She sets

aside a bit of money every month. back several weeks. off the alarm.

The bad weather has set the builders If you open this door, it will set

saddle 'up | saddle sth 'up to put a saddle on a horse

'saddle sb / yourself with sth [often passive] to give sb/yourself an unpleasant responsibility, task, debt, etc.:Ive been saddled with organizing the conference. The company was saddled with debts of 12 million.

screw sth up (into sth) | screw sth (up) into sth to squeeze sth, especially a piece of paper, into a tight ball:I screwed up the letter and threw it into the fire. Screw the foil into a little ball. screw sb (for sth) (slang) to cheat sb, especially by making them pay too much money for sth:Weve been screwed. How much did they screw you for (= how much did you have to pay)?

screw a'round (taboo, slang) to have sex with a lot of different people screw sth 'from / 'out of sb to force sb to give you sth:They screwed the money out of her by threats. screw 'up (slang, especially NAmE) to do sth badly or spoil sth SYN mess up:You really screwed up there!related noun screw-up screw sb 'up (slang) to upset or confuse sb so much that they are not able to deal with problems in their life:Her fathers death really screwed her up.see also screwed-up screw sth 'up 1 to fasten sth with screws:to screw up a crate 2 (BrE) to fasten sth by turning it:I screwed up the jar and put it back on the shelf. 3 (slang) to do sth badly or spoil sth:Dont screw it up this time.related noun screw-up screw your 'eyes / 'face up to contract the muscles of your eyes or face because the light is too strong, you are in pain, etc.:He took a sip of the medicine and screwed up his face.

see sb (about sth) to have a meeting with sb:You ought to see a doctor about that cough. What is it you want to see me about?

see sb/sth (as sth) (not used in the progressive tenses) to consider sth as a future possibility; to imagine sb/sth as sth:[vn -ing] I cant see her changing her mind. [vn] His colleagues see him as a future director.

'see about sth to deal with sth:I must see about (= prepare) lunch. He says he wont help, does he? Well, well soon see about that (= I will demand that he does help). [+ -ing] Ill have to see about getting that roof repaired. 'see sth in sb/sth to find sb/sth attractive or interesting:I dont know what she sees in him. see sb 'off 1 to go to a station, an airport, etc. to say goodbye to sb who is starting a journey 2 (BrE) to force sb to leave a place, for example by chasing them:The dogs saw them off in no time. 3 (BrE) to defeat sb in a game, fight, etc.:The home team saw off the challengers by 68 points to 47. see sb 'out (not used in the progressive tenses) (BrE) to last longer than the rest of sbs life:Ive had this coat for years, and Im sure it will see me out. see sth 'out (not used in the progressive tenses) (BrE) to reach the end or last until the end of sth:They had enough fuel to see the winter out. He saw out his career in Italy. see 'over sth (BrE) to visit and look at a place carefully:We need to see over the house before we can

make you an offer. see 'through sb/sth (not used in the progressive tenses) to realize the truth about sb/sth:We saw through him from the start. I can see through your little game (= I am aware of the trick you are trying to play on me). see sth 'through (not usually used in the progressive tenses) to not give up doing a task, project, etc. until it is finished:Shes determined to see the job through. see sb 'through | see sb 'through sth (not used in the progressive tenses) to give help or support to sb for a particular period of time:Her courage and good humour saw her through. I only have $20 to see me through the week. 'see to sth to deal with sth:Will you see to the arrangements for the next meeting? Dont worryIll see to it. Well have to get that door seen to (= repaired). 'see to it that to make sure that :Can you see to it that the fax goes this afternoon?

seize sth (from sb) to take sb/sth in your hand suddenly and using force SYN grab:She tried to seize the gun from him. He seized her by the arm. She seized hold of my hand. seize sth (from sb) to take control of a place or situation, often suddenly and violently:They seized the airport in a surprise attack. The army has seized control of the country. He seized power in a military coup.

seize a chance, an opportunity, the initiative, etc. to be quick to make use of a chance, an opportunity, etc. SYN grab:The party seized the initiative with both hands (= quickly and with enthusiasm). 6(of an emotion) to affect sb suddenly and deeply:

'seize on / upon sth to suddenly show a lot of interest in sth, especially because you can use it to your advantage SYN pounce on / upon:The rumours were eagerly seized upon by the local press. seize 'up 1 (of the parts of a machine) to stop moving or working correctly 2 if a part of your body seizes up, you are unable to move it easily and it is often painful

set a / the table to arrange knives, forks, etc. on a table for a meal:Could you set the table for dinner? The table was set for six guests.

[usually passive] set A in B | set B with A to put a precious stone into a piece of jewellery:She had the sapphire set in a gold ring. Her bracelet was set with emeralds.

set sth (for sb) | set sb (to do sth) to give sb a piece of work, a task, etc.:[vn] Who will be setting (= writing the questions for) the French exam? What books have been set (= are to be studied) for the English course? [vnn, vn] Shes set herself a difficult task. Shes set a difficult task for herself. [vn to inf] Ive set myself to finish the job by the end of the month.

set sth (to sth) to write music to go with words:Schubert set many poems to music.

'set about sb (BrE, old-fashioned, informal) to attack sb 'set about sth [no passive] to start doing sth:She set about the business of cleaning the house. [+ -ing] We need to set about finding a solution. set sb a'gainst sb to make sb oppose a friend, relative, etc.:She accused her husband of setting the children against her. set sth (off) against sth 1 to judge sth by comparing good or positive qualities with bad or negative ones:Set against the benefits of the new technology, there is also a strong possibility that jobs will be lost. 2 (finance) to record sth as a business cost as a way of reducing the amount of tax you must pay:to set capital costs off against tax set sb/sth a'part (from sb/sth) to make sb/sth different from or better than others:Her elegant style sets her apart from other journalists. set sth a'part (for sth) [usually passive] to keep sth for a special use or purpose:Two rooms were set apart for use as libraries. set sth a'side 1 to move sth to one side until you need it 2 to save or keep money or time for a particular purpose:She tries to set aside some money every month. 3 to not consider sth, because other things are more important SYN disregard:Lets set aside my personal feelings for now. 4 (law) to state that a decision made by a court is not legally valid:The verdict was set aside by the Appeal Court. set sth/sb 'back to delay the progress of sth/sb by a particular time:The bad weather set back the building programme by several weeks.related noun setback set sb 'back sth [no passive] (informal) to cost sb a particular amount of money:The repairs could set you back over 200. note at cost set sth 'back (from sth) [usually passive] to place sth, especially a building, at a distance from sth:The house is set well back from the road. set sb 'down (BrE) (of a bus or train, or its driver) to stop and allow sb to get off:Passengers may be set down and picked up only at the official stops. set sth 'down 1 to write sth down on paper in order to record it

2 to give sth as a rule, principle, etc.:The standards were set down by the governing body. set 'forth (literary) to start a journey set sth 'forth (formal) to present sth or make it known SYN expound:The President set forth his views in a television broadcast. set 'in (of rain, bad weather, infection, etc.) to begin and seem likely to continue:The rain seemed to have set in for the day. set sth 'in / 'into sth [usually passive] to fasten sth into a flat surface so that it does not stick out from it:a plaque set into the wall set 'off to begin a journey:We set off for London just after ten. set sth 'off 1 to make a bomb, etc. explode:A gang of boys were setting off fireworks in the street. 2 to make an alarm start ringing:Opening this door will set off the alarm. 3 to start a process or series of events:Panic on the stock market set off a wave of selling. 4 to make sth more noticeable or attractive by being placed near it:That blouse sets off the blue of her eyes. set sb 'off (doing sth) to make sb start doing sth such as laughing, crying or talking 'set on / upon sb [usually passive] to attack sb suddenly:I opened the gate, and was immediately set on by a large dog. 'set sb/sth on sb to make a person or an animal attack sb suddenly:The farmer threatened to set his dogs on us. set 'out 1 to leave a place and begin a journey:They set out on the last stage of their journey. 2 to begin a job, task, etc. with a particular aim or goal:She set out to break the world record. They succeeded in what they set out to do. set sth 'out 1 to arrange or display things:Her work is always very well set out. 2 to present ideas, facts, etc. in an organized way, in speech or writing:He set out his objections to the plan. She set out the reasons for her resignation in a long letter. set 'to (old-fashioned, informal) to begin doing sth in a busy or determined way set sb 'up 1 to provide sb with the money that they need in order to do sth:A bank loan helped to set him up in business. 2 (informal) to make sb healthier, stronger, more lively, etc.:The break from work really set me up for the new year. 3 (informal) to trick sb, especially by making them appear guilty of sth:He denied the

charges, saying the police had set him up.related noun set-up set sth 'up 1 to build sth or put sth somewhere:The police set up roadblocks on routes out of the city. note at build 2 to make a piece of equipment or a machine ready for use:She set up her stereo in her bedroom. 3 to arrange for sth to happen:Ive set up a meeting for Friday. 4 to create sth or start it:to set up a business A fund will be set up for the dead mens families. 5 to start a process or a series of events:The slump on Wall Street set up a chain reaction in stock markets around the world.related noun set-up set (yourself) 'up (as sb) to start running a business:She took out a bank loan and set up on her own. After leaving college, he set himself up as a freelance photographer.

I thought I would run some ideas

past them to see if I was on the right track. down for years.

British manufacturing industry has been running I ran

into an old schoolfriend at the supermarket this morning. on.

The meeting will finish promptly I dont want it to run My visa has run out. over by a drunk driver and killed.

Two children were run Could we run The book runs Youll run

through your proposals once again? to nearly 800 pages. up a big gas bill if you leave the heater on all the time.

The government is running up

against considerable opposition to its privatization plans.

(sometimes go running) to run as a sport:She used to run when she was at college. I often go running before work.

run (in sth) to take part in a race: [v] He will be running in the 100 metres tonight. There are only five horses running in the first race. [vn] to run the marathon Holmes ran a fine race to take the gold medal.

run (on sth) to operate or function; to make sth do this:[v] Stan had the chainsaw running. Our van runs on (= uses) diesel. (figurative) Her life had always run smoothly before. [vn] Could you run the engine for a moment?

[v] run (for sth) to continue for a particular period of time without stopping:Her last musical ran for six months on Broadway. This debate will run and run!

run (for sth) to operate or be valid for a particular period of time:The permit runs for three months. The lease on my house only has a year left to run.

run sth (for sb) | run (sb) sth to make liquid flow:[vn] She ran hot water into the bucket. to run the hot tap (= to turn it so that water flows from it) [vn, vnn] Ill run a bath for you. Ill run you a bath.

run with sth (usually used in the progressive tenses) to be covered with a liquid:His face was running with sweat. The bathroom floor was running with water.

[v] run at sth to be at or near a particular level: Inflation was running at 26.

run a test / check (on sth) to do a test / check on sth:The doctors decided to run some more tests on the blood samples.

run (for sb/sth) | run (in sth) to be a candidate in an election for a political position, especially in the US:Clinton ran a second time in 1996. to run for president to run in the election

'run across sb/sth to meet sb or find sth by chance

run 'after sb (informal) to try to have a romantic or sexual relationship with sb SYN pursue:Hes always running after younger women. run 'after sb/sth to run to try to catch sb/sth SYN pursue run a'long (old-fashioned, informal) used in orders to tell sb, especially a child, to go away run a'round with sb (NAmE also 'run with sb) (usually disapproving) to spend a lot of time with sb:Shes always running around with older men. 'run at sb [no passive] to run towards sb to attack or as if to attack them:He ran at me with a knife. run a'way (from sb / ) to leave sb / a place suddenly; to escape from sb / a place:He ran away from home at the age of thirteen. Looking at all the accusing faces, she felt a sudden urge to run away.related noun runaway run a'way from sth to try to avoid sth because you are shy, lack confidence, etc.:You cant just run away from the situation. run a'way with you if a feeling runs away with you, it gets out of your control:Her imagination tends to run away with her. run a'way / 'off with sb | run a'way / 'off (together) to leave home, your husband, wife, etc. in order to have a relationship with another person:She ran away with her boss. She and her boss ran away together. run a'way with sth 1 to win sth clearly or easily 2 to believe sth that is not true:I dont want you to run away with the impression that all I do is have meetings all day. run back 'over sth to discuss or consider sth again SYN review:Ill run back over the procedure once again. run sth 'by / 'past sb (informal) to show sb sth or tell sb about an idea in order to see their reaction to it run 'down 1 to lose power or stop working:The battery has run down. 2 to gradually stop functioning or become smaller in size or number:British manufacturing industry has been running down for years.related noun rundown run sth 'down 1 to make sth lose power or stop working:If you leave your headlights on youll soon run down the battery. 2 to make sth gradually stop functioning or become smaller in size or number:The company is running down its sales force.related noun rundown run sb/sth 'down 1 (of a vehicle or its driver) to hit sb/sth and knock them / it to the ground 2 to criticize sb/sth in an unkind way:Hes always running her down in front of other people.

3 to find sb/sth after a search run sb 'in (old-fashioned, informal) to arrest sb and take them to a police station run sth 'in (BrE) (in the past) to prepare the engine of a new car for normal use by driving slowly and carefully: (figurative) Whatever system you choose, it must be run in properly. run 'into sb to meet sb by chance:Guess who I ran into today! 'run into sth 1 to enter an area of bad weather while travelling:We ran into thick fog on the way home. 2 to experience difficulties, etc.:Be careful not to run into debt. to run into danger / trouble / difficulties 3 to reach a particular level or amount:Her income runs into six figures (= is more than 100 000, $100 000, etc.). 'run into sb/sth to crash into sb/sth:The bus went out of control and ran into a line of people. 'run sth into sb/sth to make a vehicle crash into sb/sth:He ran his car into a tree. run 'off (BrE) (of a liquid) to flow out of a container run sth' off 1 to copy sth on a machine:Could you run off twenty copies of the agenda? 2 to cause a race to be run:The heats of the 200 metres will be run off tomorrow. 3 to make a liquid flow out of a container run 'off with sb | run 'off (together) = run away with sb run 'off with sth to steal sth and take it away:The treasurer had run off with the clubs funds. run 'on to continue without stopping; to continue longer than is necessary or expected:The meeting will finish promptlyI dont want it to run on. 'run on sth [no passive] if your thoughts, a discussion, etc. run on a subject, you think or talk a lot about that subject run 'out 1 if a supply of sth runs out, it is used up or finished:Time is running out for the trapped miners. 2 if an agreement or a document runs out, it becomes no longer valid SYN expire run 'out (of sth) to use up or finish a supply of sth:We ran out of fuel. Could I have a cigarette? I seem to have run out. run 'out on sb (informal) to leave sb that you live with, especially when they need your help run sb 'out [often passive] (in cricket) to make a player stop batting by hitting the wicket with the ball before the player has completed his or her run

run 'over if a container or its contents run over, the contents come over the edge of the container SYN overflow run sb/sth 'over (of a vehicle or its driver) to knock a person or an animal down and drive over their body or a part of it:Two children were run over and killed. run 'over sth to read through or practise sth quickly:She ran over her notes before giving the lecture. run sth 'past sb = run sth by / past sb:Run that past me again. run sb 'through (literary) to kill sb by sticking a knife, sword, etc. through them run 'through sth 1 [no passive] to pass quickly through sth:An angry murmur ran through the crowd. Thoughts of revenge kept running through his mind. 2 [no passive] to be present in every part of sth:A deep melancholy runs through her poetry. 3 to discuss, repeat or read sth quickly:He ran through the names on the list. Could we run through your proposals once again? 4 to perform, act or practise sth:Can we run through Scene 3 again, please?related noun run-through 5 to use up or spend money carelessly:She ran through the entire amount within two years. 'run to sth 1 to be of a particular size or amount:The book runs to nearly 800 pages. 2 (especially BrE) if you or your money will not run to sth, you do not have enough money for sth:Our funds wont run to a trip abroad this year. run sth 'up 1 to allow a bill, debt, etc. to reach a large total SYN accumulate:How had he managed to run up so many debts? note at collect 2 to make a piece of clothing quickly, especially by sewing:to run up a blouse 3 to raise sth, especially a flag run 'up against sth to experience a difficulty:The government is running up against considerable opposition to its tax reforms. 'run with sb = run away with sb 'run with sth to accept or start to use a particular idea or method:OK, lets run with Jans suggestion.

Some people seem to revel

in annoying others.

He thinks that everything revolves My whole future is riding

around him.

on this interview. off by local taxi-drivers. above her physical disability.

Tourists complain of being ripped

She had the courage and determination to rise Were rooting for the college baseball team.

Ive managed to root

out a copy of the original document. it in!

I know it was a silly thing to do, but theres no need to rub Lets hope some of his good luck rubs He refused to rule off on me!

out the possibility of a tax increase.

'revel in sth to enjoy sth very much:She was clearly revelling in all the attention. [+ -ing] Some people seem to revel in annoying others.

re'volve around / round sth to move around sth in a circle:The earth revolves around the sun.

re'volve around / round sb/sth

to have sb/sth as the main interest or subject:His whole life revolves around surfing. She thinks that the world revolves around her. The discussion revolved around the question of changing the clubs name.

[v] go riding (BrE) (NAmE go 'horseback riding) to spend time riding a horse for pleasure:How often do you go riding?

'ride on sth (usually used in the progressive tenses) to depend on sth:My whole future is riding on this interview. ride sth 'out to manage to survive a difficult situation or time without having to make great changes ride 'up (of clothing) to move gradually upwards, out of position:Short skirts tend to ride up when you sit down.

'rip at sth to attack sth violently, usually by tearing or cutting it rip 'into sb (for / with sth) to criticize sb and tell them that you are very angry with them rip 'into / 'through sb/sth to go very quickly and violently into or through sb/sth:A bullet ripped into his

shoulder. rip sb 'off [usually passive] (informal) to cheat sb, by making them pay too much, by selling them sth of poor quality, etc.:Tourists complain of being ripped off by local cab drivers.related noun rip-off rip sth 'off (informal) to steal sth:Thieves broke in and ripped off five computers. rip sth 'up to tear sth into small pieces:He ripped up the letter and threw it in the fire.

rise (of sb/sth) the act of becoming more important, successful, powerful, etc.:the rise of fascism in Europe the rise and fall of the British Empire her meteoric rise to power

rise (up) (against sb/sth) (formal) to begin to fight against your ruler or government or against a foreign army SYN rebel:The peasants rose in revolt. He called on the people to rise up against the invaders.

rise (from sth) to come to life again:to rise from the dead (figurative) Can a new party rise from the ashes of the old one?

[v + adv. / prep.] root (about / around) for sth | root (through sth) (for sth) to search for sth by moving things or turning things over SYN rummage:pigs rooting

for food It must be here somewhere, she said, rooting through the suitcase. Whos been rooting around in my desk?

'root for sb [no passive] (usually used in the progressive tenses) (informal) to support or encourage sb in a sports competition or when they are in a difficult situation:Were rooting for the Bulls. Good luckIm rooting for you! root sth/sb' out 1 to find the person or thing that is causing a problem and remove or get rid of them 2 to find sb/sth after searching for a long time root sb to 'sth to make sb unable to move because of fear, shock, etc.:Embarrassment rooted her to the spot. root sth 'up to dig or pull up a plant with its roots

rub a'long (with sb / together) (BrE, informal) (of two people) to live or work together in a friendly enough way rub sb / oneself / sth 'down to rub the skin of a person, horse, etc. hard with sth to make it clean and dry rub sth 'down to make sth smooth by rubbing it with a special material rub it 'in | rub sth 'in [no passive] to keep reminding sb of sth they feel embarrassed about and want to forget:I know I was stupid; you dont have to rub it in. rub 'off (on / onto sb)

(of personal qualities, behaviour, opinions, etc.) to become part of a persons character as a result of that person spending time with sb who has those qualities, etc.:Her sense of fun has rubbed off on her children. rub sth'off (sth) | rub 'off to remove sth or to be removed by rubbing:She rubbed off the dead skin. The gold colouring had begun to rub off. (BrE) If you write on the blackboard, rub it off at the end of the lesson. rub sb 'out (NAmE, slang) to murder sb rub sth 'out (BrE) (also erase NAmE, BrE) to remove the marks made by a pencil, etc., using a rubber / eraser:to rub out a mistake

rule 'off | rule sth'off to separate sth from the next section of writing by drawing a line underneath it rule sb/sth'out 1 rule (as sth) to state that sth is not possible or that sb/sth is not suitable SYN exclude:Police have not ruled out the possibility that the man was murdered. The proposed solution was ruled out as too expensive. 2 to prevent sb from doing sth; to prevent sth from happening:His age effectively ruled him out as a possible candidate.

rule sb 'out of sth [usually passive] (in sport) to state that a player, runner, etc. will not be able to take part in a sporting event; to prevent a player from taking part:He has been ruled out of the match with a knee injury.

rule (over sb/sth) to control and have authority over a country, a group of people, etc.:[vn] At that time John ruled England. (figurative) Eighty million years ago, dinosaurs ruled the earth. [v] Charles I ruled for eleven years. She once ruled over a vast empire. (figurative) After the revolution, anarchy ruled.

rule (on sth) to give an official decision about sth SYN pronounce: [v] The court will rule on the legality of the action. The judge ruled against / in favour of the plaintiff. [vn-adj] The deal may be ruled illegal. [v that] The court ruled that the women were unfairly dismissed. [also vn to inf, vn that]

You have read too much I reasoned

into what she said. Im sure she didnt mean it!

with him for hours about the danger, but he wouldnt change his mind. on having good weather. with.

You cant always reckon

They had many difficulties to reckon They refer

to their front porch rather grandly as the conservatory. to.

Our product needs an image that people can relate Please remember me to Jenny when you see her.

He promised he would not resort It rests

to anything as extreme as plastic surgery.

with management to justify their actions. in a lack of concentration.

Stress and tiredness often result

read (sth) (to sb / yourself) to go through written or printed words, etc. in silence or speaking them to other people:[v] Im going to go to bed and read. He liked reading to his grandchildren. [vn] to read a book / a magazine / the newspaper Have you read any Steinbeck (= novels by him)? He read the poem aloud. [vn, vnn] Go onread it to us. She read us a story.

read (about / of sth) (not used in the progressive tenses) to discover or find out about sb/sth by reading:[v] I read about the accident in the local paper. [v that] I read that he had resigned. [vn] Dont believe everything you read in the papers. read sbs mind / thoughts to guess what sb else is thinking

read sbs lips to look at the movements of sbs lips to learn what they are saying

read sth (as sth) to understand sth in a particular way SYN interpret:How do you read the present situation? Silence must not always be read as consent.

read A for B | read B as A to replace one word, etc. with another when correcting a text:For madam in line 3 read madman.

read (for) sth (BrE, rather old-fashioned) to study a subject, especially at a university:[vn] I read English at Oxford. [v] Shes reading for a law degree.

read sth (into sth) (of a computer or the person using it) to take information from a disk:My computer cant read the disk you sent. to read a file into a computer

read sth 'back to read a message, etc. to others in order to check that it is correct read sth 'into sth to think that sth means more than it really does:Dont read too much into what she says. read 'on to continue reading:Thats the story so far. Now read on read sth 'out to read sth using your voice, especially to other people

read sth 'over / 'through

to read sth carefully from beginning to end to look for mistakes or check details read sth 'up | read 'up on sb/sth to read a lot about a subject:Ill need to read up on the case before the meeting.

It stands to 'reason (informal) it must be clear to any sensible person who thinks about it:It stands to reason that theyll leave if you dont pay them enough.

reason sth 'out to try and find the answer to a problem by using your power to think in a logical way SYN figure out 'reason with sb to talk to sb in order to persuade them to be more sensible:I tried to reason with him, but he wouldnt listen.

be reckoned (not used in the progressive tenses) to be generally considered to be sth:[vn to inf] Children are reckoned to be more sophisticated nowadays. [vn-n] It was generally reckoned a success. [also vn-adj]

reckon sth (at sth) to calculate an amount, a number, etc.:[vn] The age of the

earth is reckoned at about 4 600 million years. [v (that)] They reckon (that) their profits are down by at least 20. [vn to inf] The journey was reckoned to take about two hours.

'reckon on sth to expect sth to happen or to rely on sth happening:They hadnt reckoned on a rebellion. [+ -ing] Wed reckoned on having good weather. reckon sth 'up (especially BrE) to calculate the total amount or number of sth:He reckoned up the cost of everything in his mind. 'reckon with sb/sth 1 [usually passive] to consider or treat sb/sth as a serious opponent, problem, etc.:They were already a political force to be reckoned with. 2 (usually used in negative sentences) to consider sth as a possible problem that you should be prepared for SYN take sth into account: [+ -ing] I didnt reckon with getting caught up in so much traffic. 'reckon without sb/sth (especially BrE) to not consider sb/sth as a possible problem that you should be prepared for SYN not take sth into account:They had reckoned without the determination of the opposition.

re'fer to sb/sth (as sth) to mention or speak about sb/sth:The victims were not referred to by name. Her mother never referred to him again. You know who Im referring to. She always referred to Ben as that nice man. I promised not to refer to the matter again. note at mention re'fer to sb/sth

1 to describe or be connected to sb/sth:The star refers to items which are intended for the advanced learner. The term Arts usually refers to humanities and social sciences. This paragraph refers to the events of last year. 2 to look at sth or ask a person for information SYN consult:You may refer to your notes if you want. to refer to a dictionary re'fer sb/sth to sb/sth to send sb/sth to sb/sth for help, advice or a decision:My doctor referred me to a specialist. The case was referred to the Court of Appeal. (formal) May I refer you to my letter of 14 May?

re'late to sth/sb 1 to be connected with sth/sb; to refer to sth/sb:We shall discuss the problem as it relates to our specific case. The second paragraph relates to the situation in Scotland. 2 to be able to understand and have sympathy with sb/sth SYN empathize with:Many adults cant relate to children. Our product needs an image that people can relate to. relate sth (to sb) (formal) to give a spoken or written report of sth; to tell a story:[vn] She relates her childhood experiences in the first chapters. He related the facts of the case to journalists. [v wh-] She related how he had run away from home as a boy. [also v that]

be re'membered for sth | be re'membered as sth to be famous or known for a particular thing that you have done in the past:He is best remembered as the man who brought jazz to England.

re'member me to sb (especially BrE) used to ask sb to give your good wishes to sb else:Remember me to your parents.

resort to sth the act of using sth, especially sth bad or unpleasant, because nothing else is possible SYN recourse:There are hopes that the conflict can be resolved without resort to violence.

the first / last / final ~ the first or last course of action that you should or can take in a particular situation:Strike action should be regarded as a last resort, when all attempts to negotiate have failed. In the last resort (= in the end) everyone must decide for themselves.

re'sort to sth to make use of sth, especially sth bad, as a means of achieving sth, often because there is no other possible solution SYN have recourse to:They felt obliged to resort to violence. [+ -ing] We may have to resort to using untrained staff.

recourse / noun[U] (formal) the fact of having to, or being able to, use sth that can provide help in a difficult situation: Your only recourse is legal action. She made a complete recovery without recourse to surgery. The government, when necessary, has recourse to the armed forces.

rest as'sured (that ) (formal) used to emphasize that what you say is true or will definitely happen:You may rest assured that we will do all we can to find him.

'rest on / upon sb/sth 1 to depend or rely on sb/sth:All our hopes now rest on you. 2 to look at sb/sth:Her eyes rested on the piece of paper in my hand. 'rest on sth to be based on sth:The whole argument rests on a false assumption. 'rest with sb (to do sth) (formal) if it rests with sb to do sth, it is their responsibility to do it:It rests with management to justify their actions. The final decision rests with the doctors.

Put the book

back on the shelf.

Hes always putting his wife I put it all I put

down in public.

down to her hard work and initiative. forward my plan to the rest of the group. off marriage.

Her parents experience had put her I'm going to put She put

off going on holiday until after my exams.

on a funny voice to make the children laugh. through to the manager, please? up for the night.

Could you put me We can put you He puts

up with everything in the same uncomplaining way.

put sth on / onto / to sth to make sb/sth feel sth or be affected by sth: Her new job has put a great strain on her. They put pressure on her to resign. It s time you put a stop to this childish behaviour.

put sth on sth to give or attach a particular level of importance, trust, value, etc. to sth:Our company puts the emphasis on quality. He put a limit on the amount we could spend.

put sth a'bout (BrE, informal) to tell a lot of people news, information, etc. that may be false:[+ that] Someones been putting it about that you plan to resign. 'put sth above sth = put sth before sth put yourself / sth a'cross / 'over (to sb) to communicate your ideas, feelings, etc. successfully to sb:Shes not very good at putting her views across. put sth a'side 1 to ignore or forget sth, usually a feeling or difference of opinion SYN disregard:They decided to put aside their differences. 2 to save sth or keep it available to use:We put some money aside every month for our retirement. I put aside half an hour every day to write my diary. 'put sb/sth at sth to calculate sb/sth to be a particular age, weight, amount, etc.:The damage to the building is put at over $1 million. put sb a'way [often passive] (informal) to send sb to prison, to a mental hospital, etc. put sth a'way 1 to put sth in the place where it is kept because you have finished using it:Im just going to put the car away (= in the garage). 2 to save money to spend later:She has a few thousand dollars put away for her retirement. 3 (informal) to eat or drink large quantities of sth:He must have put away a bottle of whisky last night. put sth 'back 1 to return sth to its usual place or to the place where it was before it was moved:If you use something, put it back! 2 to move sth to a later time or date SYN postpone:The meeting has been put back to next week. 3 to cause sth to be delayed:Poor trading figures put back our plans for expansion. 4 to move the hands of a clock so that they show the correct earlier

time:Remember to put your clocks back tonight (= because the time has officially changed). 'put sth before / above sth to treat sth as more important than sth else put sth be'hind you to try to forget about an unpleasant experience and think about the future put sth 'by (especially BrE) (also put sth a'side) to save money for a particular purpose:Im putting by part of my wages every week to buy a bike. put 'down (of an aircraft or its pilot) to land:He put down in a field. put sb 'down (informal) to make sb look or feel stupid, especially in front of other peoplerelated noun put-down put sth 'down 1 to stop holding sth and place it on a table, shelf, etc.:Put that knife down before you hurt somebody! Its a great book. I couldnt put it down. (BrE) She put the phone down on me (= ended the call before I had finished speaking).see also unputdownable 2 to write sth; to make a note of sth:The meetings on the 22nd. Put it down in your diary. 3 to pay part of the cost of sth:We put a 5 deposit down on the house. 4 to stop sth by force SYN crush:to put down a rebellion The military government is determined to put down all opposition. 5 [often passive] to kill an animal, usually by giving it a drug, because it is old or sick:We had to have our cat put down. 6 (BrE) to put a baby to bed:Can you be quietIve just put the baby down. 7 to present sth formally for discussion by a parliament or committee SYN table:to put down a motion / an amendment put sb 'down as sth to consider or judge sb to be a particular type of person:Id put them both down as retired teachers. put sb 'down for sth to put sbs name on a list, etc. for sth:Put me down for three tickets for Saturday. Theyve put their son down for the local school. 'put sth down to sth SYN attribute to consider that sth is caused by sth:What do you put her success down to? put sth 'forth (formal) = put sth out put yourself / sb 'forward to suggest yourself/sb as a candidate for a job or position:Can I put you / your name forward for club secretary?

put sth 'forward 1 to move sth to an earlier time or date:Weve put the wedding forward by one week. 2 to move the hands of a clock to the correct later time:Remember to put your clocks forward tonight (= because the time has officially changed). 3 to suggest sth for discussion:to put forward a suggestion put sb 'in to elect a political party to govern a country:Who will the voters put in this time? put sth 'in 1 to fix equipment or furniture into position so that it can be used SYN install:Were having a new shower put in. 2 to include sth in a letter, story, etc. 3 to interrupt another speaker in order to say sth:Could I put in a word? [+ speech] But what about us? he put in. 4 to officially make a claim, request, etc.:The company has put in a claim for damages. 5 (also 'put sth into sth) to spend a lot of time or make a lot of effort doing sth:She often puts in twelve hours' work a day. [+ -ing] Hes putting a lot of work into improving his French.related noun input 6 (also 'put sth into sth) to use or give money:[+ -ing] Hes put all his savings into buying that house. put 'in (at ) | 'put into (of a boat or its sailors) to enter a port:They put in at Lagos for repairs. OPP put out (to / from ) put 'in for sth (especially BrE) to officially ask for sth:Are you going to put in for that job? put yourself / sb / sth 'in for sth to enter yourself/sb/sth for a competition put sth 'into sth 1 to add a quality to sth:He put as much feeling into his voice as he could. 2 = put sth in (5), (6) put sb 'off 1 to cancel a meeting or an arrangement that you have made with sb:Its too late to put them off now. 2 to make sb dislike sb/sth or not trust them / it:Shes very clever but her manner does tend to put people off. Dont be put off by how it looksit tastes delicious.see also off-putting 3 (also put sb 'off sth) to disturb sb who is trying to give all their attention to sth that they are doing:Dont put me off when Im trying to concentrate. The sudden noise put her off her game. 4 (BrE) (of a vehicle or its driver) to stop in order to allow sb to leave:I asked the bus driver to put me off at the station. put sb 'off sth/sb

to make sb lose interest in or enthusiasm for sth/sb:He was put off science by bad teaching. [+ -ing] The accident put her off driving for life. put sth 'off to change sth to a later time or date SYN postpone, delay:Weve had to put off our wedding until September. [+ -ing] He keeps putting off going to the dentist. put sb 'on to give sb the telephone so that they can talk to the person at the other end:Hi, Dadcan you put Nicky on? put sth 'on 1 to dress yourself in sth:Hurry up! Put your coat on! OPP take off 2 to apply sth to your skin, face, etc.:Shes just putting on her make-up. 3 to switch on a piece of equipment:Ill put the kettle on for tea. She put on the brakes suddenly. 4 to make a CD, tape, etc. begin to play:Do you mind if I put some music on? He put some jazz on the stereo. 5 to become heavier, especially by the amount mentioned SYN gain:She looks like shes put on weight. He must have put on several kilos. 6 to provide sth specially:The city is putting on extra buses during the summer. 7 to produce or present a play, a show, etc.:The local drama club is putting on Macbeth. 8 to pretend to have a particular feeling, quality, way of speaking, etc.:He put on an American accent. I dont think she was hurt. She was just putting it on. put sth 'on sth 1 to add an amount of money or a tax to the cost of sth:The government has put ten pence on the price of twenty cigarettes. 2 to bet money on sth:Ive never put money on a horse. I put 5 on him to win. put sb 'onto sb/sth 1 to tell the police, etc. about where a criminal is or about a crime:What first put the police onto the scam? 2 to tell sb about sb/sth that they may like or find useful:Who put you onto this restaurantits great! put 'out (for sb) (NAmE, slang) to agree to have sex with sb put yourself 'out (for sb) (informal) to make a special effort to do sth for sb:Please dont put yourself out on my account. put sb 'out 1 to cause sb trouble, extra work, etc. SYN inconvenience:I hope our arriving late didnt put them out. 2 be put out to be upset or offended:He looked really put out. 3 to make sb unconscious:These pills should put him out for a few hours. put sth'out 1 to take sth out of your house and leave it, for example for sb to collect: (BrE) to

put the rubbish out (NAmE) to put the garbage / trash out 2 to place sth where it will be noticed and used:Have you put out clean towels for the guests? 3 to stop sth from burning or shining:to put out a candle / cigarette / light Firefighters soon put the fire out. 4 to produce sth, especially for sale:The factory puts out 500 new cars a week.related noun output 5 to publish or broadcast sth:Police have put out a description of the man they wish to question. 6 to give a job or task to a worker who is not your employee or to a company that is not part of your own group or organization:A lot of the work is put out to freelancers. 7 to make a figure, result, etc. wrong:The rise in interest rates put our estimates out by several thousands. 8 to push a bone out of its normal position SYN dislocate:She fell off her horse and put her shoulder out. 9 (also formal put sth 'forth) to develop or produce new leaves, shoots, etc. put 'out (to / from ) (of a boat or its sailors) to leave a port:to put out to sea We put out from Liverpool. OPP put in (at ) put yourself / sth 'over (to sb) = put yourself / sth across (to sb) put sth 'through to continue with and complete a plan, programme, etc.:We managed to put the deal through. put sb 'through sth 1 to make sb experience sth very difficult or unpleasant:You have put your family through a lot recently. 2 to arrange or pay for sb to attend a school, college, etc.:He put all his children through college. put sb/sth 'through (to sb / ) to connect sb by telephone:Could you put me through to the manager, please? 'put sb to sth to cause sb trouble, difficulty, etc.:I hope were not putting you to too much trouble. 'put sth to sb 1 to offer a suggestion to sb so that they can accept or reject it:Your proposal will be put to the board of directors. 2 to ask sb a question:The audience is now invited to put questions to the speaker. put sth to'gether to make or prepare sth by fitting or collecting parts together:to put together a model plane / an essay / a meal I think we can put together a very strong case for the defence. note at build

'put sth towards sth to give money to pay part of the cost of sth:Heres $100 to put towards your ski trip. put 'up sth 1 to show a particular level of skill, determination, etc. in a fight or contest:They surrendered without putting up much of a fight. The team put up a great performance (= played very well). 2 to suggest an idea, etc. for other people to discuss:to put up an argument / a case / a proposal put sb 'up 1 to let sb stay at your home:We can put you up for the night. 2 to suggest or present sb as a candidate for a job or position:The Green Party hopes to put up more candidates in the next election. put sth 'up 1 to raise sth or put it in a higher position:to put up a flag Shes put her hair up. 2 to build sth or place sth somewhere:to put up a building / fence / memorial / tent note at build 3 to fix sth in a place where it will be seen SYN display:to put up a notice 4 to raise or increase sth:Theyve put up the rent by 20 a month. 5 to provide or lend money:A local businessman has put up the 500 000 needed to save the club. put 'up (at ) (especially BrE) to stay somewhere for the night:We put up at a motel. put 'up for sth | put yourself 'up for sth to offer yourself as a candidate for a job or position:She is putting up for election to the committee. put sb 'up to sth (informal) to encourage or persuade sb to do sth wrong or stupid:Some of the older boys must have put him up to it. put 'up with sb/sth to accept sb/sth that is annoying, unpleasant, etc. without complaining SYN tolerate:I dont know how she puts up with him. Im not going to put up with their smoking any longer.

They polished She often pops

off the meal in a matter of minutes. in for coffee.

The fans poured

out after the game, cheering wildly. on.

Shall we stay here for the night? No, lets press Hold the bottle and pull the cork

out with the other hand. through.

Shes very ill but the doctor thinks she will pull Im tired of being pushed The opposition is trying to push

around by officious civil servants. for electoral reform. in in front of me.

I was standing in the queue and this man pushed They decided to put aside their differences.

polish sb 'off (informal, especially NAmE) to kill sb polish sth 'off (informal) to finish sth, especially food, quickly:He polished off the remains of the apple pie.

pop 'off

(informal) to die pop sth 'on (BrE, informal) 1 to put on a piece of clothing:Ill just pop on a sweater and meet you outside. 2 to turn on a piece of electrical equipment

pour (sth) (out) to serve a drink by letting it flow from a container into a cup or glass:[vn] Will you pour the coffee? I was in the kitchen, pouring out drinks. [vn, vnn] Ive poured a cup of tea for you. Ive poured you a cup of tea. [v] Shall I pour?

pull (sth) to the right / the left / one side to move or make a vehicle move sideways:[v] The wheel is pulling to the left. [vn] She pulled the car to the right to avoid the dog.

pour sth 'into sth to provide a large amount of money for sth:The government has poured millions into the education system. pour 'out when feelings or sbs words pour out they are expressed, usually after they have been kept hidden for some time:The whole story then came pouring out. pour sth 'out to express your feelings or give an account of sth, especially after keeping them or it secret or hidden:She poured out her troubles to me over a cup of coffee.

press sb (for sth) | press sb (into sth / into doing sth) to make strong efforts to persuade or force sb to do sth SYN push, urge: [vn] If pressed, he will admit that he knew about the affair. The bank is pressing us for repayment of the loan. [vn to inf] They are pressing us to make a quick decision.

[vn] press sth into / onto sth to put sth in a place by pushing it firmly:He pressed a coin into her hand and moved on.

press sb (for sth) | press sb (into sth / into doing sth) to make strong efforts to persuade or force sb to do sth SYN push, urge: [vn] If pressed, he will admit that he knew about the affair. The bank is pressing us for repayment of the loan. [vn to inf] They are pressing us to make a quick decision.

press a'head / 'on (with sth) to continue doing sth in a determined way; to hurry forward:The company is pressing ahead with its plans for a new warehouse. Shall we stay here for the night? No, lets press on. 'press for sth to keep asking for sth SYN demand, push for:They continued to press for a

change in the law. 'press sth on sb to try to make sb accept sth, especially food or drink, although they may not want it:She kept pressing cake on us. pull sb/sth (in) to attract the interest or support of sb/sth:They pulled in huge crowds on their latest tour.

push sb (into sth / into doing sth) | push sb (to do sth) to persuade or encourage sb to do sth that they may not want to do:[vn] My teacher pushed me into entering the competition. [vn to inf] No one pushed you to take the job, did they?

push sb a'bout / a'round to give orders to sb in a rude or unpleasant way push a'head / 'forward (with sth) to continue with a plan in a determined way:The government is pushing ahead with its electoral reforms. push sth 'aside to avoid thinking about sth:He pushed aside the feelings of fear. push sth 'back to make the time or date of a meeting, etc. later than originally planned:The start of the game was pushed back from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. 'push for sth | 'push sb for sth to repeatedly ask for sth or try to make sth happen because you think it is very important:The pressure group is pushing for a ban on GM foods. Im going to have to push you for an answer. push 'forward to continue moving or travelling somewhere, especially when it is a long distance or difficult push yourself / sb 'forward to make other people think about and notice you or sb else:She had to push herself forward to get a promotion. push 'in (BrE) (NAmE cut 'in) to go in front of other people who are waiting push 'off

1 (BrE, informal) used to tell sb rudely to go away:Hey, what are you doing? Push off! 2 to move away from land in a boat, or from the side of a swimming pool, etc. push 'on to continue with a journey or an activity:We rested for a while then pushed on to the next camp. push sb 'out to make sb leave a place or an organization push sb/sth 'out to make sth less important than it was; to replace sth push sth 'out to produce sth in large quantities:factories pushing out cheap cotton shirts push sb/sth 'over to make sb/sth fall to the ground by pushing them:Sam pushed me over in the playground.see also pushover push sth 'through to get a new law or plan officially accepted:The government is pushing the changes through before the election.
The company took a gamble by cutting the price of their products, and it paid Esra had a bright red scarf to perk up her grey suit. on me! off.

I know they need someone to go to the meeting, but why did they have to pick Taxis cruised about, hoping to pick up late fares. in.

Two players started fighting, and then the rest of the team pitched The government is trying to play The children have been playing The ship ploughed I finally plucked

down its involvement in the affair. up all day.

through the waves. up enough courage to tell her.

She was quick to point

out all the mistakes Id made.

pay sb 'back (sth) | pay sth 'back (to sb) to return money that you borrowed from sb SYN repay:Ill pay you back next week. You can pay back the loan over a period of three years. Did he ever pay you back that $100 he owes you? pay sb 'back (for sth) to punish sb for making you or sb else suffer:Ill pay him back for making me look like a fool in front of everyone.related noun payback pay sth 'in | pay sth 'into sth to put money into a bank account:I paid in a cheque this morning. Id like to pay some money into my account. pay 'off (informal) (of a plan or an action, especially one that involves risk) to be successful and bring good results:The gamble paid off. pay sb 'off 1 to pay sb what they have earned and tell them to leave their job:The crew were paid off as soon as the ship docked. 2 (informal) to give sb money to prevent them from doing sth or talking about sth illegal or dishonest that you have done:All the witnesses had been paid off.related noun pay-off pay sth 'off to finish paying money owed for sth:We paid off our mortgage after fifteen years. pay sth 'out 1 to pay a large sum of money for sth:I had to pay out 500 to get my car repaired.related noun payout note at spend 2 to pass a length of rope through your hands pay 'up to pay all the money that you owe to sb, especially when you do not want to or when the payment is late:I had a hard time getting him to pay up.

perk 'up | perk sb 'up (informal) to become or to make sb become more cheerful or lively, especially after they have been ill / sick or sad SYN brighten:He soon perked up when his friends arrived. perk 'up | perk sth 'up (informal) to increase, or to make sth increase in value, etc.:Share prices had perked up slightly by close of trading. perk sth 'up (informal) to make sth more interesting, more attractive, etc. SYN liven up:ideas for perking up bland food

'pick at sth 1 to eat food slowly, taking small amounts or bites because you are not hungry 2 to pull or touch sth several times:He tried to undo the knot by picking at it with his fingers. pick sb 'off (informal) to aim carefully at a person, an animal or an aircraft, especially one of a group, and then shoot them:Snipers were picking off innocent civilians. pick sth 'off to remove sth from sth such as a tree, a plant, etc.:Pick off all the dead leaves. 'pick on sb/sth 1 to treat sb unfairly, by blaming, criticizing or punishing them:She was picked on by the other girls because of her size. 2 to choose sb/sth:He picked on two of her statements which he said were untrue. pick sb/sth 'out 1 to choose sb/sth carefully from a group of people or things SYN select:She was picked out from dozens of applicants for the job. He picked out the ripest peach for me. 2 to recognize sb/sth from among other people or things:See if you can pick me out in this photo. note at identify pick sth 'out 1 to play a tune on a musical instrument slowly without using written music:He picked out the tune on the piano with one finger. 2 to discover or recognize sth after careful study:Read the play again and pick out the major themes.

3 to make sth easy to see or hear:a sign painted cream, with the lettering picked out in black pick sth 'over | pick 'through sth to examine a group of things carefully, especially to choose the ones you want:Pick over the lentils and remove any little stones. I picked over the facts of the case. pick 'up 1 to get better, stronger, etc.; to improve:Trade usually picks up in the spring. The wind is picking up now. Sales have picked up 14 this year.related noun pickup 2 (informal) to start again; to continue:Lets pick up where we left off yesterday. 3 (informal, especially NAmE) to put things away and make things neat, especially for sb else:All I seem to do is cook, wash and pick up after the kids. pick 'up | pick sth 'up to answer a phone:The phone rang and rang and nobody picked up. pick sb 'up 1 to go somewhere in your car and collect sb who is waiting for you SYN collect:Ill pick you up at five. 2 to allow sb to get into your vehicle and take them somewhere:The bus picks up passengers outside the airport. 3 to rescue sb from the sea or from a dangerous place, especially one that is difficult to reach:A lifeboat picked up survivors. 4 (informal, often disapproving) to start talking to sb you do not know because you want to have a sexual relationship with them:He goes to clubs to pick up girls.related noun pickup 5 (informal) (of the police) to arrest sb:He was picked up by police and taken to the station for questioning. 6 to make sb feel better:Try thisit will pick you up.related noun pick-me-up pick sb/sth 'up 1 to take hold of sb/sth and lift them / it up:She went over to the crying child and picked her up. 2 to receive an electronic signal, sound or picture:We were able to pick up the BBC World Service. pick sth 'up 1 to get information or a skill by chance rather than by making a deliberate effort:to pick up bad habits Heres a tip I picked up from my mother. She picked up Spanish when she was living in Mexico. 2 to identify or recognize sth:Scientists can now pick up early signs of the disease. 3 to collect sth from a place:I picked up my coat from the cleaners.related noun pickup 4 to buy sth, especially cheaply or by chance:We managed to pick up a few bargains at the auction.

5 to get or obtain sth:I seem to have picked up a terrible cold from somewhere. I picked up 30 in tips today. 6 to find and follow a route:to pick up the scent of an animal We can pick up the motorway in a few miles. 7 to return to an earlier subject or situation in order to continue it SYN take up:He picks up this theme again in later chapters of the book. 8 to notice sth that is not very obvious; to see sth that you are looking for:I picked up the faint sound of a car in the distance. 9 (especially NAmE) to put things away neatly:Will you pick up all your toys? 10 (NAmE) to put things away and make a room neat:to pick up a room pick 'up on sth 1 to notice sth and perhaps react to it:She failed to pick up on the humour in his remark. 2 to return to a point that has already been mentioned or discussed:If I could just pick up on a question you raised earlier. pick sb 'up on sth to mention sth that sb has said or done that you think is wrong:I knew he would pick me up on that slip sooner or later. pick yourself 'up to stand up again after you have fallen:He just picked himself up and went on running. (figurative) She didnt waste time feeling sorry for herselfshe just picked herself up and carried on.

pitch 'in (with sb/sth) (informal) to join in and help with an activity, by doing some of the work or by giving money, advice, etc.:Everyone pitched in with the work. Local companies pitched in with building materials and labour. pitch sth 'in to give a particular amount of money in order to help with sth:We all pitched in $10 to buy her a gift. pitch 'into sb (informal) to attack or criticize sb:She started pitching into me as soon as I arrived. pitch 'into sth (informal) to start an activity with enthusiasm:[+ -ing] I rolled up my sleeves and pitched into cleaning the kitchen. pitch 'up (BrE, informal) to arrive somewhere, especially late or without planning:You cant just pitch up and expect to get in without a ticket. SYN turn up

play (with sb/sth) to do things for pleasure, as children do; to enjoy yourself, rather than work:[v] A group of kids were playing with a ball in the street. Youll have to play inside today. I havent got anybody to play with! Theres a time to work and a time to play. [vn] Lets play a different game.

[no passive] play (at doing) sth to pretend to be or do sth for fun:[vn] Lets play pirates. [v] They were playing at being cowboys.

play a trick / tricks (on sb)

to trick sb for fun

play (sth) (on sth) | play sth (to sb) | play sb sth to perform on a musical instrument; to perform music:[vn] to play the piano / violin / flute, etc. He played a tune on his harmonica. [vn, vnn] Play that new piece to us. Play us that new piece. [v] In the distance a band was playing.

play (to sb) houses.

to be performed:A production of Carmen was playing to packed

[vn] play a part / role (in sth) to have an effect on sth:The media played an important part in the last election.

play a'bout / a'round (with sb/sth) 1 to behave or treat sth in a careless way:Dont play around with my tools! 2 (informal) to have a sexual relationship with sb, usually with sb who is not your usual partner:Her husband is always playing around. play a'long (with sb/sth) to pretend to agree with sb/sth:I decided to play along with her idea. 'play at sth / at doing sth (often disapproving) to do sth without being serious about it or putting much effort into it play a'way (from home) (BrE) 1 (of a sports team) to play a match at the opponents ground or stadium 2 (of a person who is married or who has a regular sexual partner) to have a secret sexual relationship with sb else play sth 'back (to sb) to play music, film, etc. that has been recorded on a tape, video, etc.:Play that last section back to me again.related noun playback play sth 'down to try to make sth seem less important than it is SYN downplay OPP play up play A 'off against B (BrE) (NAmE play A off B) to put two people or groups in competition with each other, especially in order to get an advantage for yourself:She played her two rivals off against each other and got the job herself.related noun play-off play 'on (sport) to continue to play; to start playing again:The home team claimed a penalty but the referee told them to play on. 'play on / upon sth to take advantage of sbs feelings, etc. SYN exploit:Advertisements often play on peoples fears. play sth 'out when an event is played out, it happens SYN enact:Their love affair was played out against the backdrop of war. play yourself / itself 'out

to become weak and no longer useful or important play 'up | play sb 'up (informal, especially BrE) to cause sb problems or pain:The kids have been playing up all day. My shoulder is playing me up today. play sth 'up to try to make sth seem more important than it is SYN overplay OPP play down 'play with sb/sth to treat sb who is emotionally attached to you in a way that is not serious and which can hurt their feelings:She tends to play with mens emotions. She realized that Patrick was merely playing with her. 'play with sth 1 to keep touching or moving sth:She was playing with her hair. Stop playing with your food! 2 to use things in different ways to produce an interesting or humorous effect, or to see what effect they have:In this poem Fitch plays with words which sound alike. The composer plays with the exotic sounds of Japanese instruments.

plough sth 'back (in / into sth) | plough sth back 'in 1 to turn over growing crops, grass, etc. with a plough and mix them into the soil to improve its quality 2 to put money made as profit back into a business in order to improve it:The money was all ploughed back into the company. 'plough into sb/sth (especially of a vehicle or its driver) to crash violently into sth especially because you are driving too fast or not paying enough attention:A truck ploughed into the back of the bus. plough sth 'into sth to invest a large amount of money in a company or project:The government has ploughed more than $20 billion into building new schools. plough 'on (with sth) to continue doing sth that is difficult or boring:No one was listening to her, but she ploughed on regardless. plough (your way) 'through sth 1 to force a way through sth:She ploughed her way through the waiting crowds. 2 (of a vehicle or an aircraft) to go violently through sth, out of control:The plane ploughed through the trees. 3 to make slow progress through sth difficult or boring especially a book, a report, etc.:I had to plough through dozens of legal documents. plough sth 'up

1 to turn over a field or other area of land with a plough to change it from grass, for example, to land for growing crops 2 to break up the surface of the ground by walking or driving across it again and again:The paths get all ploughed up by motorbikes.

[vn] pluck sth (out) to pull out hairs with your fingers or with tweezers:She plucked out a grey hair. expertly plucked eyebrows

pluck (NAmE also pick) to play a musical instrument, especially a guitar, by pulling the strings with your fingers:[vn] to pluck the strings of a violin [v] He took the guitar and plucked at the strings.

[vn] pluck sb (from sth) to remove sb from a place or situation, especially one that is unpleasant or dangerous:Police plucked a drowning girl from the river yesterday. Survivors of the wreck were plucked to safety by a helicopter. She was plucked from obscurity to instant stardom.

[vn] pluck sth (from sth) to take hold of sth and remove it by pulling it:He plucked the wallet from the mans grasp.

[vn] pluck sth (from sth) (old-fashioned or literary) to pick a fruit, flower, etc. from where it is growing:I plucked an orange from the tree.

'pluck at sth to hold sth with the fingers and pull it gently, especially more than once SYN tug:The child kept plucking at his mothers sleeve. (figurative) The wind plucked at my jacket.

point a / the 'finger (at sb) to accuse sb of doing sth:The article points an accusing finger at the authorities.

point sb/sth 'out (to sb) to stretch your finger out towards sb/sth in order to show sb which person or thing you are referring to:Ill point him out to you next time he comes in. point 'out (to sb) | point sth 'out (to sb) to mention sth in order to give sb information about it or make them notice it:She tried in vain to point out to him the unfairness of his actions. He pointed out the dangers of driving alone. [+ that] I should point out that not one of these paintings is original. [+ speech] Its not very far, she pointed out. 'point to sth

1 to mention sth that you think is important and/or the reason why a particular situation exists:The board of directors pointed to falling productivity to justify their decision. 2 to suggest that sth is true or likely:All the signs point to a successful year ahead. point sth 'up (formal) to emphasize sth so that it becomes more noticeable SYN highlight:The conference merely pointed up divisions in the party.

sit in / on / for sth | sit as sth to have an official position as sth or as a member of sth:He was sitting as a temporary judge. She sat on a number of committees. For years he sat for Henley (= was the MP for that constituency). They both sat as MPs in the House of Commons.

sit (for) sth (BrE, rather formal) to do an exam:[vn] Candidates will sit the examinations in June. Most of the students sit at least 5 GCSEs. [v] He was about to sit for his entrance exam.

sit (for sb) = babysit:Whos sitting for you?see also house-sit

sit a'bout / a'round (often disapproving) to spend time doing nothing very useful:Im far too busy to sit around here. [+ -ing] He just sits around watching videos. sit 'back 1 to sit on sth, usually a chair, in a relaxed position:He sat back in his chair and

started to read. 2 to relax, especially by not getting too involved in or anxious about sth:Shes not the kind of person who can sit back and let others do all the work. sit 'by to take no action to stop sth bad or wrong from happening:We cannot just sit by and watch this tragedy happen. sit 'down | sit yourself 'down to move from a standing position to a sitting position:Please sit down. He sat down on the bed. They sat down to consider the problem. Come in and sit yourselves down. sit 'down and do sth to give sth time and attention in order to try to solve a problem or achieve sth:This is something that we should sit down and discuss as a team. 'sit for sb/sth [no passive] to be a model for an artist or a photographer:to sit for your portrait She sat for Augustus John. sit 'in for sb to do sbs job or perform their duties while they are away, sick, etc. SYN stand in for sit 'in on sth to attend a meeting, class, etc. in order to listen to or learn from it rather than to take an active part 'sit on sth (informal) to have received a letter, report, etc. from sb and then not replied or taken any action concerning it:They have been sitting on my application for a month now. sit sth 'out 1 to stay in a place and wait for sth unpleasant or boring to finish:We sat out the storm in a cafe. 2 to not take part in a dance, game or other activity 'sit through sth to stay until the end of a performance, speech, meeting, etc. that you think is boring or too long:We had to sit through nearly two hours of speeches.

sit 'up 1 to be or move yourself into a sitting position, rather than lying down or leaning back:Sit up straightdont slouch. 2 to not go to bed until later than usual:We sat up half the night, talking. sit 'up (and do sth) (informal) to start to pay careful attention to what is happening, being said, etc.:The proposal had made his clients sit up and take notice. sit sb 'up to move sb into a sitting position after they have been lying down

sweat sth 'off to lose weight by doing a lot of hard exercise to make yourself sweat

sweat it 'out (informal) to be waiting for sth difficult or unpleasant to end, and be feeling anxious about it