Fluency In Topicwise English - Part Ii: Kev Nair

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Kev Nair

Fluency in Topicwise English - Part II Prof. Kev Nair was born in Kerala, South India, in 1949. He’s an eminent scholar of international repute. He’s a first class LL.B. and a first class LL.M. And he was ranked first in university in both the LL. B. and LL. M. exams. • “Nair was the first person in the world to give shape to the area of study now known as ‘English fluency development’ and to systematize it into a distinct teachable subject... So he is better known as the father of fluency development.” – General Knowledge Today. • “He had been researching since 1971, and the results... led him to new discoveries... ” – THE HINDU. • “Prof. Kev Nair is regarded the world over as the father of fluency lexicography... Fluency lexicography came into existence as a separate branch of dictionary writing with the publication of Prof. Nair’s Dictionary of Active Fluency Combinations in 1986.” – Competition Success Review. • “A renowned English language lexicographer” – The New Sunday Express. • “One of the world’s most respected English language scholars...Perhaps more innovative in method than Roget and more modern in approach than Fowler, Prof. Kev Nair is... one of the foremost Indian scholars who wield great influence on the thinking of the English-educated people around the world.” – General Knowledge Today. • “A towering English language expert” – Competition Success Review. • “Prof. Kev Nair... has... reached out to thousands – judicial officers, professionals, top executives, scholars – who

2 need that comfort and ease in speech with his specialised fluency techniques.” – The New Indian Express. Prof. Nair is a lawyer by profession. He lives with his wife and children in Kochi, Kerala, an enchanting place on the earth.

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Fluent English Dictionaries1 by Kev Nair • A Dictionary of Active Fluency Combinations. • A Dictionary of Fluency Word Clusters. • The Complete Fluency Words. • A Dictionary of Essential Fluency Phrases. • Core Fluency Thesaurus. • Comprehensive Adjectival Fluency Dictionary. • Narrative Fluency Dictionary. • Thesaurus of Phrasal Verbs. • Thesaurus of Descriptive English.

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Note: The Fluent English Dictionaries do not form part of Fluentzy: The English Fluency Encyclopedia. They’re separate publications – meant for those who want to specialize in fluency-oriented vocabulary. For details, visit www. fluencybookz.com.

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Books by Kev Nair making up Fluentzy: The English Fluency Encyclopedia • B1: Idea units & Fluency. • B2: Speech Generation & Flow Production. • B3: Teaching your Tongue & Speech Rhythm. • B4: Key Speech-initiators & Speech-unit Patterns. • S1/B13 & S2/B14: Fluency in Functional English (Vols. 1 & 2). • S3/B15: Fluency in Telephone English & Sectoral English. • B5: How to Deal with Hesitation. • B6: Oral Training in Fluency Vocabulary (Vol.1). • B7: Packing of Information. • B8: Impromptu Speech-flow Techniques. • S4/B16: Fluency Building & Mouth Gymnastics. • S5/B17: Fluency in speaking about people. • B9: Fluency in Asking Questions. • B10: Oral Training in Fluency Vocabulary (Vol.2). • B11: Fluency & Moment-to-Moment Speech-production. • B12: Oral Training in Fluency Vocabulary (Vol.3). • S6/B18 & S8/B20: Fluency in Topicwise English (Vols. 1 & 2). • S7/B19: Fluency & Pronunciation.

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Fluency in Topicwise English Part II “Two volumes of Fluency in Topicwise English help you widen your fluency range. These two books help you master the word clusters that would help you handle important everyday topics with fluency.” – The New Sunday Express. Fourth Edition

Prof. Kev Nair

TM

Adult Faculties Council

TM

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For Uma fluency in topicwise english - Part iI. Copyright © Prof. K. E. V. Nair @ KevNair 1982, 1997, 2001, 2008. First published 1982. 3rd edition 2001 (10 impressions). 4th edition 2008. Prof. K. E. V. Nair @ KevNair has asserted his right to be identified as the author of this book in accordance with the Copyright Act, 1957. All rights reserved worldwide. No part of this book shall be copied or reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or manner whatever, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission, in writing, of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations or as expressly permitted by law. All quotations from this book shall credit the author, Prof. KevNair. This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise circulated in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published, and without a similar condition, including this condition, being imposed on any acquirer or the subsequent purchaser. Any violation of these terms and conditions will invite civil and criminal proceedings and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Published in India by Mrs. Uma V. Nair, Adult Faculties Council, DP Lane, Elamakkara PO, Kochi-682 026, Kerala. Printed in India by Ayodhya Printers Ltd., Elamakkara PO, Kochi-682 026, Kerala. Adult Faculties Council’s websites: www.fluentzy.com; www.fluencybookz.com. Phone: (91)(0484) 2538449, 2408361. Fax: (91)(0484) 2408361. E-mail: [email protected]. Price: Rs.175.00

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Contents Chapter 1: Fluency in speaking about a wide range of topics, 11 Good and bad, 12

Chapter 2: Farming, agriculture & gardening, 25 Chapter 3: Sports & Games, 38 Chapter 4: Essential computer English, 44 Chapter 5: Crime, 55 Chapter 6: Nature,59 Chapter 7: Buildings and Home, 65 Chapter 8: a-and-an word clusters, 69 Chapter 9: Prepositionals, 78 Chapter 10: Frequent action clusters, 92

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Preface to the 4th edition Here’s the latest edition of this book. I have now added three new chapters. They give you a very large quantity of specially collected word groups for oral practice. These are word groups that can add to the kind of vocabulary control you need in order to speak about a wide range of topics. If you have any comments and suggestions, please do write to me care of the publishers. KEV Nair Kochi, 2008.

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Abbreviations

fml

formal

infml

informal

sb

somebody

sth

something



sw

somewhere

11 Fluency in speaking about a wide range of topics

Chapter 1

Fluency in speaking about a wide range of topics I told you in Book 18 that, if you are to become fluent in speaking about a wide range of topics, it is not enough that you know a lot of words and have a clear idea of their meanings and other features. And I told you this: What’s needed is that you should have complete mastery over the core words in English. But this is only possible if you have the experience of handling the core words again and again, that too, by relating them to frequentlydiscussed topics. In Book 18, I gave you carefully chosen collections of word groups that have to do with six topics. In this Book, I’m going to give you word groups that have to do with seven other important topics: 1). Good and bad. 2). Farming, Agriculture & Gardening. 3). Sports & Games. 4). Essential Computer English. 5). Crime. 6). Nature. 7). Building and home. Let’s go straight for the word groups. As usual, utter each word group aloud several times, so that you and your organs of speech become familiar with them. Remember this: What’s needed is not just to learn the content of these word groups; what’s needed is to train your organs of speech with them. Here we go:

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Good and bad Group 1 • We had a really pleasant time together. • His French wasn’t as good as his English, but good enough. • What an unpleasant man! • Don’t expect them to be truthful — they’ve got no ethics. • The weather conditions were bad, and the plane couldn’t land. • He’s a very able lawyer. • It’s an old car, but it’s basically sound. • This is perhaps the finest film I’ve ever seen. • He showed excellent self-control in his answer. • What an awful smell! • His work is satisfactory, but not outstanding. • He’s a nasty man, and he won’t help anyone. • That’s a remarkable achievement. • She gave us some hints on how to look after indoor plants, and I found them very useful. • He says he’s a policeman, but he doesn’t look authentic/genuine. • He has a lot of good qualities and he deserves admiration. • The conference was very dull, and I didn’t know what to do to amuse myself. • That’s a marvellous dress you’re wearing. • Some of these drugs have a harmful effect on the nervous system. • She’s a very skilled and experienced swimmer. • Many of them are incapable and don’t have the abilities necessary to do their jobs. • He is an exceptionally talented painter. • His work is first class. • What miserable weather! If only it stopped raining! • That’s a first rate plan/idea. • The management of that company seems to be very inefficient. • Their work is well below standard. • I don’t think it was an honest answer. • All the players were good, but he was easily the best. • This dishwasher is an ingenious invention. • The index at the back of the book is not as good as it should be. • He had a better life there. • He’s a very gifted violinist. • If you want to be successful in this business, you’ll have to offer the best to your customers. • That’s a very good product. • The new park is going to be an excellent place for kids. • I think his argument/reasoning is faulty. • The dress she had on wasn’t suitable for the occasion. • The telephone line was defective. •

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He’s all right — you can trust him. • He did an admirable job in dealing with the situation. • One thing I like about him is, he has a positive attitude to everything. • He was very unfriendly, and his behaviour was nasty. • That was an outstanding/impressive performance. • He’s an ethical person — I’m sure he won’t stoop to blackmail. • It isn’t a genuine/an authentic Michelangelo drawing, but a fake. • Their computers are superior to those of others. • He never loses his temper, and that’s an admirable quality. • That is a marvellous idea. • He’s a nice person, but rather dull and boring. • The election didn’t produce a satisfying result for them. • Don’t buy those vegetables — they’re rotten. • Do you think the supplies of food are sufficient? • He’s a kindhearted person. • He’s good looking and fashionable. • The boss was in a foul temper today. • He’s a fine painter/musician/actor. • He likes to play tricks on others — he’s a mischievous person, you know. • The painters have done an excellent job of that building. • Our company is going through a bad time. • That was a surprise to me, but an agreeable one. • His new house is a bit small, but very pleasant. • That egg is rotten — don’t eat it. • He isn’t very clever, but he tries hard. • He showed great surprise at the news, but I don’t think it was genuine. • He’s always hopeful and confident, and it’s great to work with him. • I like the design of this building/ dress/furniture — it’s stylish. • I’m not happy with his work — it’s below a satisfactory standard. • Thank you for an excellent evening. • His argument/reasoning was deeply flawed. • I don’t think it’s a sound idea/plan. • The problem is, the supplies of medicines are not adequate. • She always goes out dressed in fine clothes. • His new film is a miserable failure. • He’s a firstrate professional. • They’re all fine singers. • Change that dress — it looks awful on you. • He’s an outstanding player. • He’s very truthful, and you can trust him. • I find it difficult to believe that he’s a real/genuine doctor. • The telephone system in our area is very inefficient. • We had a really good time at the party last night. • This food has a nasty mouldy smell.

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Group 2 • The terms of the new contract are really advantageous to us. • This film doesn’t have any technical merit, but it’s very entertaining. • This medicine isn’t suitable for all patients. • He’s a superior musician. • He’s very competent in foreign languages. • I think the fears of the industrialists are legitimate, and not groundless. • My room has a fine view of the countryside. • The kitchen smelt foul. • His car is in first class condition. • If you want to know how to start up a company, you should consult Mr. Ashok Arora — he’s a specialist adviser, you know. • He’s the most honest man I ever met. • They treated us dreadfully. • Last night’s party was good wholesome fun. • He has a bad character, and he can’t be trusted. • Many of our doctors are not adequately trained. • We had a really enjoyable time there. • The arrangements for the conference — I don’t think they were adequate. • I don’t know if this make of TV is all right. • Who cooked this dish? It’s superb! • His interpretation of the balance sheet figures — it’s faulty. • I don’t think he’s suitable for that job. • He had a terrible accident last year. • Stress in itself is not always harmful. • He’s a nice person, and is pleasant to be with. • Their village/town is rather crowded, but very pleasant. • He’s good-looking and stylish. • The new boss is always nasty to me. • The work was not up to standard. • That was a very competent performance. • The boss seems to be in a foul mood today. • He’s a genuine person — always honest and sincere. • This butter tastes stale. • I like her — her behaviour has a childlike quality. • She’s very clean, and always keeps the kitchen free from dirt. • Most people in that area are poor and live in housing of sorts/of a sort. • That was a satisfying meal. • That bridge is in poor condition and may soon collapse. • He’s an expert tailor. • He claims to have invented this device, but do you think his claim is legitimate? • The smell of rotting cabbage was disgusting. • The new arrangement suits me fine. • He’s a miserable man, and always bad-tempered. • That’s

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a great idea. • It was a bad accident, and his injuries were awful. • I don’t think he was being truthful with us when he said all those things. • The whole marketing department in our company is very inefficient. • This milk has gone bad. • The food in that restaurant is very good/poor. • His hearing/sight was defective. • He’s a very talented tennis player. • This food has gone off, and it smells. • He has superb confidence. • If you bury a piece of wood, it’d decay/rot. • This medicine is an effective cure for TB. • This method is inefficient and expensive. • The flight was very comfortable, and I enjoyed it. • He’s a poor singer — his wife can sing better than him. • He’s a very friendly and agreeable person. • She has a nice little house there. • Don’t keep biting your nails — it’s a disgusting habit. • He’s a very moral person — don’t expect him to stoop to bribery. • This is not the most favourable time to start up a company. • There’s no doubt that his work deserves to be praised. • This is a boring subject. • This is a wicked world. • He’s an outstanding musician. • That building is very impressive. • The things they’ve done are morally unacceptable. • Prof. Ahmed is an expert on this topic. • Their new interest rates seem very advantageous. • That’s a fine book. • I found his joke offensive. • He has an excellent brain and is very competent. • This method isn’t effective and isn’t going to produce the result we want. • The boss liked her because she was honest and reliable. • It’s immoral to deceive other people. • That’s a faulty switch — we’ll have to get it replaced. • I didn’t like the food — it wasn’t all right. • They sell good quality furniture. • This bread isn’t fresh — it’s stale. Don’t eat it. • The terms of the contract are not very advantageous to us. • He’s a great painter — he has superb skill. • You shouldn’t wear this sort of dress to the office — it isn’t suitable, you know. • I’ve had a bad day at work. • This is certainly an awesome achievement. • The food was poor. • He’s a fine-looking young man. • He lives in a nasty little flat there. • He was way below the standard required, and was not chosen for the job. • Most of our employees are hardworking and responsible. • He’s a warm and

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friendly man. • He’s a mischievous person — he takes delight in embarrassing others. • I like him — he’s an admirable character. • The children looked smart in their white shirts. • His new film has a lot of artistic merit. • Our new boss looks very stern, but is actually harmless. • He was splendid company during the journey. • He was found to be a superior candidate, and he was chosen for the job. • She’s an expert at cooking. • They claim to be the market leaders in this industry, and I think their claim is reasonable and justified. • She gave us an excellent meal. • He says this diamond is flawed. • The food here is first class.

Group 3 • You’ll have to give me a truthful answer. • Rumours like these would certainly be damaging to our reputation. • I hate that place — it’s awful. • The preparations for the meeting were not satisfactory. • These floppy disks are of superior quality. • I don’t think the response to their latest ad was very good. • Don’t use this milk — it smells off. • That machine was of poor quality. • His financial situation is awful. • He exercises every day and keeps in perfect shape. • The bathroom was dirty and disgusting. • I don’t think the investigation has been thorough. • It’s not a very expensive hotel — the prices are OK. • Did you go to the carnival? It was an impressive spectacle. • I found his argument defective. • I think today’s going to be a pleasant day. • She’s a very attractive and fashionable woman. • He made some nasty jokes about me. • He’s the most upright and trustworthy man I’ve ever met. • This sort of diet isn’t suitable for most people. • He has a few valuable contacts in the government. • The lecture was so dull I fell asleep. • That’s a fine book. • The film didn’t have a satisfying ending. • Her grandfather is past 90, but his mind is sound. • Do you think the talks the unions had with the management were genuine? • There’s nothing more enjoyable than lying on that beach. • He has a foul mouth, and nobody likes him. • He’s an excellent student.

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• That was a defective theory. • His jokes are always the same, and they’re boring. • He felt that the only honourable course of action was to resign. • The education system here isn’t as good as it should be. • Is the pain terrible/very bad? • I’ve made some arrangements, but I don’t know if they’re OK. • The government’s decision is very good news for small investors. • That building is very old, and all the doors and windows are rotten. • That’s a very attractive dress. • I don’t think that house is in very good condition — don’t buy it. • He’s a warm and kindhearted man. • Divorce isn’t good for children. • Look at those flowers! Aren’t they a beautiful sight! • This job is no good at all — I’m going to resign. • Bangalore has a pleasant climate. • This is a nasty situation, and I don’t know how he’s going to handle it. • Our old boss was very able and efficient. • The motor bike is a very convenient way of getting around. • Those suggestions were not good enough to be accepted. • That dress looks stylish — I like it. • The vegetables have started decaying/rotting. • That was an excellent dinner. • He and his business partners get along splendidly. • It was a boring meeting/party. • His musical ability is of a high standard. • He’s an expert in this sort of work. • Dishonest behaviour is something I had never expected from him. • The show was just excellent entertainment. • All these rumours are mischievous. • That’s a great relief. • The weather has been awful for a week now. • That food is no longer fresh — it’s stale. • Her son is an able child, and he’s very good at his studies. • There’s a negative side to his character that I don’t like. • That’s an old building and it has started to decay. • He did OK at the interview. • The weather has been good for some time now. • Trying to convince him of something is really tedious. • Adultery is considered immoral. • They’re very poor, and their living conditions are very harsh/severe. • I don’t like his paintings — they’re of poor artistic quality. • He’s a world-class tennis player. • He’s evil, and he takes pleasure in harming other people. • Do you think this is a suitable present for her? • Tomorrow is her

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birthday. • The water supply in this area is quite inadequate. • He’s always had high moral standards. • Many of the trade union leaders are not trustworthy.

Group 4 • He’s a specialist in repairing computers. • I don’t think the things he said were truthful. • He had a smart blue shirt on. • The whole department is corrupt — everybody takes bribes. • These two teeth have decayed, and they need to be pulled. • We’ve just had very good news. • He has committed several awful offences. • He’s a narrow-minded person. • He’s a wicked man, and he’s made his wife’s life a misery. • The brakes were defective. • It seems they’re in severe financial difficulties. • I’m sure he’ll soon become a world-class champion. • I like the new job, but the pay is bad. • He is an effective lawyer. • This work is quite inadequate — you’ll have to do it again. • That’s an excellent idea. • He’s a man of dubious character. • This is wonderful news — I’m so happy. • Arguments and quarrels like these can turn nasty. • They only sell superior quality paper. • They arrived at a very convenient moment. • The food tasted disgusting. • He used to do reasonably well in school, without really trying. • He gave me a few tips on answering questions at interviews, and they were really valuable. • This is dreadful news. • He has a collection of splendid paintings. • That was sound advice — you should have taken it. • His moustache isn’t genuine — it’s phoney. • It’s always satisfying to be proved right. • He always uses foul/bad language. • We had a really great time together. • He’s wicked by nature. • He’s an honourable man, and he won’t behave in a cheap way. • Filling up long forms like these is tedious work. • I found most of his answers unsatisfactory. • His behaviour was rude/shocking. • He isn’t a good person to work with. • That’s a school of quality. • This food isn’t fit to eat. • He’s an evil man. • That’s a useless job, but he had to take it because opportunities were scarce. • He

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gave me a few valuable tips, and I found them very helpful. • Our education system is hopeless. • He’s very thorough, and is very methodical in his work. • Food shortage has become severe. • He’s a very capable person, and he can do most things well. • That was a marvellous performance. • This is a nasty problem, and I don’t know how to deal with it. • He’s a capable worker, and we don’t want him to leave us. • The timing of the meeting was very convenient. • He’s very incompetent and can’t do his job properly. • He speaks good English. • The new boss is stern and hard to please, and isn’t popular with the staff. • That was a coincidence — a remarkable coincidence. • It was the most disgusting thing I’ve ever tasted. • He’s a splendid painter. • That man is boring — he only talks about himself. • She’s a dressmaking expert. • One thing about him is, he’s honest and dependable. • This scandal will be damaging to the Chief Minister/the government. • That was an excellent performance/lecture. • It’s good to see you after all this time. • I’m very tired — it was an awful journey. • I have a severe/terrible toothache. • Do you think their intentions are honourable? • It’s a good job, and the salary isn’t bad. • He’s very corrupt, and he only does things in return for money. • This isn’t a nice thing for a person with your reputation to do. • We had a good time on the trip. • That’s a college of a high standard. • A few weeks holiday will be beneficial to your health. • He works very hard and is absolutely trustworthy and level-headed. • She’s a bad driver. • He’s a very helpful person. • We had to reject their offer, because it was quite inadequate. • The carnival was a spectacle not to be missed. • These shoes are of low/poor quality. • He has a wonderful view from his bedroom window. • Diabetes is a nasty disease. • The smell in the toilet was disgusting. • I find the opening hours of the bank very convenient. • He’s not a real/ genuine policeman — he’s just a fraud/fake. • He’s a man of superior intelligence. • Their work was satisfactory, but it could have been better.

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Group 5 • That’s a horrible thing to say. • I can’t stand the smell of rotting vegetables/meat/fish. • The article he sent to them was not of an acceptable standard, and they decided not to publish it. • He’s a marvellous actor. • It was boring to sit there with nobody to talk to. • He won’t fail to notice things like these — he has an expert eye, you know. • He’s an honest man — he never tries to deceive people. • That’s not a bad idea. • When he started his career, he was very honest, but now he’s become corrupt. • He looked pathetic, and I felt sorry for him. • Did he tell you the awful news? • His suggestion is certainly worthy of consideration. • He’s a dishonest lawyer. • He’s sure to make a favourable impression on the interview board. • She’s a real expert on art, and you can learn a lot from a conversation with her. • He coped with the situation admirably. • I’ve had a terrible journey, and I’m very tired. • We had a wonderful time in Goa. • He was smart and well-dressed. • There was a foul stench when the rubber started burning. • She’s an able student/teacher. • What rotten luck! • You should arrange a convenient time for the negotiation. • That wasn’t a satisfactory answer. • It tastes slightly bitter, and it has a very unpleasant smell. • These are pathetic excuses — do you think I believe what you’re saying? • He looked splendid. • I found that film very boring. • They’re a bunch of incompetents. • He’s past 70, but his body is still sound. • He isn’t an expert or anything — he’s phoney. • She’s very efficient and does a good job as our Managing Director’s secretary. • These shoes are great for walking in the country. • He’s a corrupt politician. • The washing machine was defective and wasn’t working properly. • He acted honourably, and apologized to them. • I don’t like that man — he’s awful. • She’s a thoroughly evil woman. • He’s an annoying person — he keeps asking personal questions. • He had a severe hip injury. • There’s nothing like a good book. • His efforts certainly deserve praise. • Some of these foods contain a lot of chemicals and additives, and may

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have a harmful/damaging effect on your health. • I don’t think she should get married to him — he isn’t worthy of her. • He’s a specialist on European history. • This is a pocket-sized computer, and I find it very handy. • We usually avoid that restaurant — it’s a fancy place, and very expensive, you know. • The film was entertaining, but not particularly good. • What an awful thing to say! • We took a chance, and we’ve won — it’s very satisfying. • She’s a poor swimmer. • This toaster is a clever invention. • The trouble is, none of their plans are thorough. • He was good at languages while at school. • Everybody had a good opinion of the way the police handled the situation. • He’s a great musician. • I’ve just had some very bad news. • They were a superior team and they won. • She’s a very competent cook. • I don’t think what you said was appropriate to the situation. • This kind of attitude is simply not acceptable. • She has an evil tongue, and she keeps spreading rumours about other people. • He’s a remarkable writer. • You look marvellous, Ajith! • He’s not a dishonest man — I’ve always found him to be fair in his dealings. • He’s very ingenious and is full of clever ideas and plans. • His accent sounded phoney. • There were lots of good applicants for the job, but she was much better than the rest. • That’s a very exclusive restaurant, and not many people can afford to go there. • This fish is rotten and is beginning to smell disgusting. • I don’t find his explanation satisfactory. • I like him — he’s wonderful. • This bread/cheese is mouldy — don’t eat it. • The safety record of that airline is exemplary. • Don’t take him to that hospital — he won’t have the best of care there. • It’s not a serious problem, but an irritating one. • The air in this room is rather stale — I think we’ll open the windows. • This dish tastes good. • You don’t need any medicine — what you need is lots of wholesome natural food. • I find this work slow and tedious and rather frustrating. • That was a world-class performance. • He doesn’t have the qualifications to be a doctor — he’s a fake/ fraud. • The information I got from there was very useful.

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• He collapsed in the street and fainted, and when he came to, he was in severe pain. • She’s very skilled at making people at their ease. • The design of that building — it was defective. • Have you seen his paintings? I think he’s just great/wonderful! • That was a dinner of sorts/of a sort — I didn’t enjoy it. • This is a clever new gadget — it can sharpen pencils. • I don’t think their action was appropriate — they shouldn’t have dismissed him at all. • The compromise formula was not acceptable to them. • I’ve had a rotten day at work. • I don’t think he’s competent enough to be put in charge of the office. • Our house has got a marvellous view of the countryside. • I think he’s horrible and disgusting. • Her excuses were not genuine, but phoney/false. • They’re planning to give a lavish and select party and only the most important people here are going to be invited to it. • These clothes are great for cold weather. • He has suffered some dreadful injuries.

Group 6 • The weather conditions in their place would be very harsh now. • His behaviour/tact was exemplary. • He only likes the best. • That’s a fancy school — only wealthy businessmen can afford to send their children there. • He gave a performance on the piano, and it was very impressive. • She’s a lovely and well-mannered woman. • This cooker/fridge is faulty. • The police found the information he gave very valuable. • The food was absolutely bad. • This material is of good/high quality — it’s very good for curtains. • You should take exercise regularly — that’ll have a beneficial effect on your health. • He’s a very skilled guitar player. • She’s always hopeful that things will turn out well. • He’s fine at sports and rather poor at his studies. • He’s a remarkable man and has a lot of unusual qualities. • Their new boss seems to be a clever man — he understands things quickly. • That hotel is very convenient to the airport. • If you don’t handle the situation properly, it’ll turn/go sour. • I had the good fortune to win first

23 Fluency in speaking about a wide range of topics

prize. • There are a lot of people who think abortion is immoral. • This sort of behaviour is unsuitable for educated people like you. • Many of the passengers suffered dreadful/terrible injuries in the crash. • I’ve got some splendid news for you. • I had a bad dream last night. • Do you think their firm is financially sound? • Many of these so-called charitable causes are not genuine, but bogus/phoney. • There’s a pleasant view from her window. • I didn’t like her performance — it was absolutely pathetic. • This device is very suitable for cleaning windows. • I find some of his habits very irritating/annoying. • Even if he finds your wallet, he won’t give it to you — he has no morals. • This isn’t a very nice room. • He has one or two of his teeth decayed. • He hasn’t done anything illegal or dishonest. • He seems to be in a good mood today. • His health steadily became worse. • Don’t expect him to be kind to you — I’ve never found him to be charitable. • He’s very skilful and clever with his hands. • I’m hopeless at playing golf. • His body is very healthy, considering his age. • They claimed to be earthquake victims, but they were frauds/fakes. • They make high quality chocolates. • He returned some of the parts/components, because they were defective. • That wasn’t a satisfactory attempt — you should try again. • Life would be dreadful without a TV. • He doesn’t have a regular job, and he makes a living of sorts/of a sort by doing this and that. • That’s a clever idea/plan — and I think it’s the only way to handle this situation. • Tomorrow won’t be convenient for me. • She always chooses superior cloth for her dresses. • Neither solution seemed acceptable. • That was a pathetic attempt — no wonder it didn’t succeed. • He was fired because he was found to be inefficient. • This is a very satisfying job. • That’s a rotten idea. • This is a hopeless situation — I don’t know how he’s going to deal with it. • He has expert hands and will be able to repair the car in no time. • It’s an old car, but it’s in good condition and quite dependable. • I like him — he’s a pleasant person. • He behaved dreadfully

24 Fluency in speaking about a wide range of topics

at the meeting. • He’s a great one for getting people to talk confidentially to him. • Don’t eat that food — it smells dreadful. • He may be poor, but he’s honest. • This is the best hotel I’ve ever stayed at. • He’s dishonest and immoral, and he won’t hesitate to trick you out of your money. • In about a month, the weather would become mild and warm. • The arrangement we come to must be satisfactory to both parties. • That’s an old and decaying building. • He’s a talented musician. • They’ve called off the strike — it’s a very satisfying development. • Let’s not forget that their support is very valuable to us. • That bridge is very old and isn’t in good condition. • He’s bad at mathematics. • They always buy the choicest apples/ vegetables/fruits/meat. • That man has a nasty mind. • I’ve never seen him confident that things would turn out well. • That’s a very popular and fashionable restaurant. • Their business partnership has turned/gone sour. • That’s a clever solution — I’ve been wondering how to solve this puzzle. • This wallet is made of genuine leather. • That’s a dull novel, and there’s nothing exciting in it. • Most articles in that magazine are of a superior standard. • What’s that disgusting smell? • The great thing about him is, he’s very understanding. • You can trust him — he’s a dependable person. • I don’t think he’s a capable person — he doesn’t have the qualities necessary to cope with life. • That film was marvellous — I enjoyed it very much.

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25 Farming, agriculture & gardening

Chapter 2

Farming, agriculture & gardening Group 1 • Is the land there good for farming? • Press the seed into the soil, and cover it lightly. • You must remove all the weeds from around the plants/crops. • The future of farming certainly looks bright in our country — many signs point in that direction. •They have a good year-round supply of water for all their farm needs. • The plants were grown indoors, and then transplanted outside. • We’ve lived and farmed here for more than 50 years. • His land is not suitable for cultivation because of shallow soil. • When he retired, he took up gardening. • If you want to do the farm work efficiently, you need modern machinery and equipment. • Have you sprayed the plants with insecticide yet? • During the growing season, most farm crops need about 1 inch of water a week. • Look at those cows grazing around that tree. • His farmland is nearly level, and so, for him, erosion is not a problem. • When is cabbage ready for harvesting? • They’re thinking of taking up fish/sheep farming. • They always treat soil/their plants with manure. • Many trees die because people often do careless planting. • The flower-beds were full of weeds. • The long-term outlook for farming in our country is certainly bright. • Their country is strong both in industry and agriculture. • Nearly all farm plants are of the seed producing types. • There’s a cowshed on the farm to shelter/keep/milk the cows. • I’m thinking of planting bushes/trees/shrubs/vegetables/potatoes/beans in the garden. • He cleared the land by chopping up and turning under the bushes and growths. • If the land/soil isn’t fertile, plants won’t

26 Farming, agriculture & gardening

grow well. • How do you prevent rabbit attacks in this area? • Farmers were preparing the earth and working on it to grow potatoes. • How much water do you apply to the crops a week? • They have a few acres of grazing land in that village. • Do they have farm buildings for the livestock? • She planted the seeds and covered them with a little soil. • Are these insects injurious to peas? • We still plant and harvest rice by hand. • The soil on their farm is deep and easy to work. • I think we should fence in the field. • Dairying is well adapted to family-type farming. • You should fertilize your fields with manure. • Cabbage crops usually produce good yields. • She trained the shoots/bushes up the fence. • There’s a lot of money involved in farming. • You should turn and loosen the soil before you start planting the garden. • The income of a farm family is usually less than that of a city family. • The stalks were bare after the harvest. • We had a good crop of rice this year. • They are healthy plants. • Not all of the land on the farm is alike — some parts are very good for cultivation, while some parts are only moderately good. • They have tractors, seed-bed preparation machines, crop-harvesting machines and other farm machines on their farm. • This is the first time we’ve had a harvest failure. • He picked up a hoe and started loosening the soil and removing the weeds. • These are harmful insects, and you can kill them by putting pesticides on your crops. • Their farm produces small fruits as well as tree fruits. • They breed and keep sheep at the farm. • She raked in the backyard, and made a good seed-bed to grow young plants from seed. • She has a beautiful flower-bed in her garden. • Cabbage/cauliflower plants are usually sown in the field by hand — farmers don’t generally use machines for this purpose. • That’s a dry area with low rainfall, and most plants won’t grow there. • Remove the loose stones from the fields — they’d interfere with using the fields. • Where are most of the grapes produced in our country? • Last week, an agriculturist had come to advise the farmers here. • In that area, people use irrigation to supplement rainfall. • Farm income has increased

27 Farming, agriculture & gardening

considerably during the last few years. • That’s rough mountain land/marshy land, and is not suitable for cultivation. • These are fruits/leaves/flowers/plants with long stalks. • Their garden is full of wild plants. • We’ll have to think of better ways to improve crop yields.

Group 2 • Their farmland is always wet and requires drainage. • If you irrigate that area, you can make it fertile. • Rice is a widely grown crop in Kerala. • You should have a good understanding of your land if you are to use it properly. • There was a long period of drought last year, and it damaged the harvest. • You should only apply water to the plants slowly, so that all the water soaks into the ground. • All the fields in that area are planted with rice/ wheat. • I don’t own a farm, but I have a smallholding — it’s smaller than a normal farm, you know. • How do you cut the cabbage/cauliflower heads from the stalks? • The weather was good for the harvest. • If you want to drain large areas of land, you need main outlet ditches. • Vineyards should be located near good roads. • You can buy fresh farm produce in that market. • There are transplanting machines to set plants in fields. • On their farm, the primary source of income is dairy products. • She’s tidying up the garden. • Farming is becoming more productive and more efficient in our country. • My parents are farmers. • Fruit trees largely take care of themselves — except for pruning. • We’re going to have another year of crop failure. • Our farm produces farm products for sale and home use. • He was pinching out the tips of the young growths, so they’ll develop into bushy plants. • Some seed varieties grow very fast. • What insect is most injurious in this region? • Look at those hens loose in the farmyard. • Some plants don’t transplant well. • You can prune the young tree by trimming the roots and the top at the planting time. • We don’t use any chemical pesticides — we grow crops without using them.

28 Farming, agriculture & gardening

• Farmers in that area have started using machines for threshing. • You should use stakes to support these plants. • Wheat, maize and rice are cereal plants that produce grain. • Insects like these mostly attack cultivated plants and fruits. • They have several acres under cultivation. • You should rake the soil smooth. • In general, the farmers in our country have become more efficient during the last few years. • Have you fed the chickens? • Are there any apple/cherry orchards in your area? • Nowadays, good agricultural land is in short supply. • The seeds were planted in beds and there were irrigation furrows between the beds. • Look at those leaves/shoots that have sprouted! • You should cover the roots of the plant with earth. • We’ll have to cut open-ditches to drain the land. • Set the tree in the hole, throw soil in, and tramp the soil thoroughly on the roots. • That’s a very fertile region and can produce a large number of good quality crops. • He’s gone to his village to help his parents in the harvest. • If the weather is dry when you plant the tree, pour some water into the hole. • After ploughing the land, you should break up all large lumps of soil. • Be careful how you cultivate the plants — you shouldn’t injure their roots. • Better give shallow cultivation. • They own a coffee/rubber/tea plantation. • How much grain/ milk does your farm produce? • Beans need a well-prepared seed-bed. • They planted the trees at 25 feet intervals. • They have a farm reservoir, and they use water from it for irrigation. • Rice is grown on wet land. • The soil here is full of grass and weeds. • We visited their village during the wheat harvest. • Do they produce or buy the feed grain needed for the livestock? • The trees gave a high yield last year. • When planting is done on ridges, you should be careful not to expose roots, and you shouldn’t cover plants when they’re small. • How much will it cost to produce an acre of tomatoes? • He employs more than 50 farm workers. • Total farm production in our country during the last year was the largest on record. • The government will have to do something to improve the level of living of farm people. •

29 Farming, agriculture & gardening

Many plants make poor growth, because farmers don’t handle them properly at planting time. • Both of them work on a farm. • Those oranges look old and shrivelled. • This dry weather is going to have a bad effect on our crops. • They have a number of fruit trees in their backyard. • Get the tree in the position you want — then add soil in the hole and pack again. • We cut long narrow trenches in the earth and planted the seed in them. • They use a high-yielding variety of wheat for seed. • Fences keep cattle and sheep where they are wanted, and also out of places where they’re not wanted.

Group 3 • They grow crops and keep pigs at the farm. • There are trees of various ages in that farm. • Organic manure like these make plants grow healthy and strong. • This is a chemical fertilizer — you should spread it on the land/ground and work it in before planting. • All this land will have to be brought under cultivation. • If you sow the seed now, the plants will be ready to be set in the field by September. • All the farms in that region are highly productive. • They rotate crops by growing different crops in succession in that field. • Where can we get good celery seed from? • They live in a farming area. • A large part of the land on their farm is in crops. • The vines provide shade as well as fruit. • Crop production per acre of cropland has certainly increased. • The paddy fields in that area are irrigated by canals, pipes and ditches. • The grain crop will have to be harvested in about a month’s time. • Beans/Rice cropped badly last year. • The seedlings were raised in the greenhouse and transplanted later. • That hill is too steep to plough. • Before you use wet land for field crops, you should drain it and remove surface water. • You should give frequent cultivation to cabbage, so you can prevent weeds and grass from growing. • Their farm has a lot of fields. • Most family-type farms in our area have livestock. • You can use hand cultivators, but cultivation should be given frequently

30 Farming, agriculture & gardening

— and for these crops cultivation should be shallow. • She grows flowers, vegetables and other plants in her garden. • His land is covered with small bushes and trees. • When you plant young trees, you should cut off all diseased and broken roots and roots that are too long. • Their farms produce cereal crops. • How is wheat/rice threshed in your area? • There are paddy fields near our house. • He’s raking in the garden. • Nowadays fewer men on the farm work fewer hours — but they produce more farm products than ever before. • Some flowers don’t transplant easily. • His son is at university studying agriculture. • All these lumps of earth will have to be broken up. • Wells should be located on the high side of the fields to provide for water flow. • These trees no longer yield fruit. • How do you control grasshoppers and other insects in your fields? • Buds have started appearing on the trees. • The roots are still unharmed — they’ve produced a lot of sprouts. • He owns about 100 acres of farmland there. • Potatoes grow under the ground. • The field had been ploughed, and we could see a series of ridges in it. • Set the tree in a hole, and fill the hole to the top and pack. • How many acres of crop land does their farm have? • The irrigation in that area is very poor. • What crops are grown in your area for home use? • Their farmhouse is at the bottom of the valley. • Vegetables and small fruits are high-return crops. • How much fertilizer should I use for peas? • He cut a narrow trench/channel into the ground, so water could flow along. • We transplanted the seedlings into the soil today. • Push/Hammer these stakes into the ground, and tie all the young plants to them. • Coffee and tea are the main crops grown there. • We keep the fields flooded with water and use them for growing rice. • How deep should the soil be ploughed to prepare it for melons? • Put cow dung around the roots of these bushes. • While these plants are young, you shouldn’t cover the buds with soil during cultivation. • How do the growers in your area market the spinach crop? • He grows mushrooms in the garden. • Land that’s idle is losing fertility. • What are the climate requirements

31 Farming, agriculture & gardening

of carrots? • Fewer farmers and more customers are to the advantage of farmers. • Let’s train the vines over/against the wall. • Don’t set the plants too shallow or too deep. • Crops grow well if you dig manure or chemical substances into soil. • They’re expecting a record harvest this year. • Ploughing is over, but there are lots of large lumps of earth/clay on the surface. • The larger the farm in crop areas, the larger the net farm income. • How many onion plants are required per acre? • He’s ploughing the field/ploughing in the field. • She grows grapes in her vegetable garden. • After planting the tree, she left a depression near it to receive extra rainwater. • Plant them in rows three feet apart. • If the land is deep, level, well-drained and fertile, most farm crops would do well on it. • How far apart should these plants be set? • He cut furrows into the earth using their ploughs and planted seed in them. • If you want to put your farmland to proper use, you should clear it of bushes, stumps, stones and other obstructions. • They don’t have enough farm buildings for storing the harvested crops and the farm machinery. • They grow potatoes in large quantities. • There are several orange/lemon groves in that area. • What’s the yield per acre? • The land is full of grass and roots. • New buds have started sprouting on the trees. • More than 80% of the entire farm output is consumed as food. • You should care for the field if good crops are to be produced. • The trees have started putting out their leaves. • Tomatoes don’t grow well in this soil. • Before you set these plants in the field, the soil must be turned to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. • How are ripe melons harvested? • Farmers in our area are busy weeding and planting. • If you want to make full use of the land, you should keep it in growing crops throughout much of the year. • You can produce better crops if you add manure/ fertilizers to soil. • After ploughing the land, the soil should be harrowed several times — this will help in controlling weeds. • They’ve built a barn to store grain and hay on their farm. • Sheep get most of their feed from forage, and only a small percentage from grain. • Most of them are wheat/rice/potato

32 Farming, agriculture & gardening

farmers. • Our farmland is suitable for growing maize. • How far apart should I space the rows? • Another crop failure could result in a shortage of food. • Generally, dairying is concentrated near the larger cities and industrial centres. • He farms 100 acres. • General farming usually includes one or more cash crops. • The children have trampled the seedbed and ruined everything. • These insects are a nuisance — they eat crops. • Crops must be chosen that can do well on your land. • Farmers in that area grow beans and cowpeas on orange/lemon groves and turn them under as green manure. • Farmers will have to think of new methods to increase their yield. • You can buy eggs from them — they keep chickens. • When you plant a young tree, you should set it in a hole one or two inches deeper than it grew in the nursery. • I’ve finished weeding. Now I’ll have to start digging. • Dairying requires a fairly large amount of labour. • Every square metre of the soil was used for vegetables. • The ground was hard and difficult to dig. • You should use the hoe now and then, and prevent the growth of grass and weeds. • Trees started shedding leaves in early autumn. • A good farm must have a good water supply. • What’s the length of time required to grow a crop of cauliflower? • You should water the young plants regularly. • Add some compost to the soil round the roots — the plants would grow well. • He started on a smallholding — now he owns a large farm. • These plants were grown in a nursery and transplanted here. • Don’t let the land lie waste — start farming it. • Rotation of crops is not very important with short season crops like lettuce. • Build a frame around the seedbed, and cover it with a good quality sheeting, so you can protect the bed from the sun and hot winds. • Much of our village is good agricultural land. • Break the land deep, but don’t turn up the tighter soil. • Climate is perhaps the most important factor in deciding what vegetables to produce. • Has the farm population in our country increased during the past few years? • He gathered the leaves together with a rake. • You should turn the soil under with a plough before the

33 Farming, agriculture & gardening

plants are to be set. • To pick grapes, you need much skill. • He owns a fish/sheep/mink/livestock/crop/dairy/poultry farm. • Tomatoes have cropped well this year. • You should put decaying plants and animal dung in the earth near the young trees. • Their farm is off the main highway. • He pruned the 1-year old trees by cutting the top back to about 30 inches above the ground. • The tomato is the main home garden vegetable in our area. • Their region has the most fertile soil in the country. • How do you plant onion/bean/asparagus/tomato seed? • We must start digging up the garden tomorrow. • It’s been a good harvest this year. • Mangoes grow in hot countries. • Labour is one of the major items of expense in farm production. • This sort of land is no good for growing carrots.

Group 4 • They keep/raise sheep on their farm. • Before you put the plants in, you should use a rake and loosen the earth and make it level. • He gets a good view of a large part of the farm from his farmhouse. • What crops do best in your area? • You’ll have to turn over the earth once more before planting them. • They plant these seeds on ridges in ploughed fields and they work down the ridges when the plants grow several inches high. • They’ve sown/planted the fields with wheat. • Sandy soils are better suited to deep-rooted crops like sweet potatoes. • How should I handle the plants after pulling them from the bed? • He picked up a spade and started digging in the garden. • They cultivate a small/large garden. • We only planted the seed last week, and little green shoots have already started to appear. • He ploughed the land and left it unplanted to restore its fertility. • Cabbage crops are harvested by hand as soon as they reach sufficient size. • How can you tell when tomatoes are ready to harvest? • He resigned and took up farming. • The crops are cut and gathered after they have ripened. • Set the tree in a hole, and throw a few shovels of the topsoil around and over the roots,

34 Farming, agriculture & gardening

and pack this well. • Their farmland doesn’t have enough waterholding capacity. • Buds have started opening. • You should grow a cover crop like peas and turn it under as green manure. • We must weed the garden today. • Most farmland is not being wisely used. • Carrots grow under the ground and have green shoots above the ground. • What crops do you grow here for turning under as green manure? • This land is poor and stony and isn’t suitable for farming. • Wild plants like these grow among cultivated plants. • When you plant these trees you should dig deep wide holes — or the roots won’t spread out in a natural position. • He doesn’t own the farm — he only runs it. • Before planting time, the soil is ploughed with a tractor and cut over with a harrow. • How are rows laid off for planting lemons? • She planted flowers along the drive. • Farm people need as good housing as town people. • It’ll be a good idea to plant lowgrowing crops like cabbage, beans, onions, etc. between the rows of trees. • They had a bumper wheat crop last year. • The soil here is too dry and rocky — you can’t cultivate this land. • Use a hoe and remove all these weeds. • We had a good/high yield of rice last year. • The basic feed for the livestock on the farm is pasture. • Put decaying plants and twigs round the roots — they’ll keep water in the earth near the plants and protect the plants from weeds. • They planted the seeds in the soil/ground. • If the field is dry, you should irrigate the field soon after setting the plants. • What type of soil is lettuce grown on? • Basically, farming is a business — and it may or may not be profitable. • How do you prepare land for corn? • How are you going to shade the seedbed from the sun? • We’re going to put manure on the fields tomorrow. • They’ve planted/sown 50 acres with rice. • He dug a ditch to drain water from the field. • He raked the soil and made it smooth and level. • How do you take/pull plants from the seedbed? • The soil hasn’t been turned up properly. • If you plant in long, straight rows, much of the cultivation can be

35 Farming, agriculture & gardening

done with the tractor. • How deep should the soil be prepared to grow cabbage? • She planted her garden with cabbages, onions and other vegetables. • Many banks refuse to finance farming. • If you put rotting leaves, twigs and other plant material round the roots, you can protect the plants from weeds and help them grow. • Wheat and rice are two of the main crops in our country. • They mostly cultivate wheat and potatoes. • The apple/pear trees were inter-cropped with cabbage/beans/onions. • Have you watered the flowerbed today? • They keep their crop land in productive use most of the time. • What are the fertilizer requirements of these crops? • He farms somewhere in Kerala. • Success of farming depends on several factors. • Lettuces have large green leaves and these leaves are used in salads. • They sprayed the fruit trees with pesticide. • His farmland is gently sloping, and he has to spend a lot of money to prevent erosion. • The yield was poor this year. • It’s only three days since we planted the seeds, and they’ve already started to sprout. • Let’s hope the rains won’t fail this year. • He’s an apple-grower/ fruit-grower/flower-grower/rose-grower. • The ponds dried up during the drought. • Vegetables and small fruits are intensive cash crops like cotton and tobacco. • How long does it take to produce a crop of eggplants? • The ground is very hard — you’ll have to break it up before planting the seeds. • When you pull these plants from the bed for setting them in the field, take care not to injure them. • Plants need water as well as light. • Farming is actually a high-risk business. • What type of soil can cabbage be grown on? • Wheat, rice, maize, barley, rye and oats are various types of cereal. • They cultivate about 50 acres. • I don’t think he’s been watering the plants — they’ve shrivelled and died. • Is there enough hay in the barn for the cows? • In good farming, land is wisely used. • She bought the plants from a local nursery. • Cover crops like peas prevent erosion and provide green manure each year. • These plants grow best in the shade. • Let’s train the roses along the wall. • There’s a mass of bushes, shrubs and plants growing under those trees. • Their

36 Farming, agriculture & gardening

farm produces a good vegetable/fruit crop every year. • Rake the soil before you plant the seeds. • Certain crops should be planted shallow and certain crops should be planted deep. • Farmers dig fertilizers into soil to make it more fertile. • Everybody here will be busy till after the harvest. • If it continues to rain like this, we shall have floods. • Spinach and other greens are harvested immediately before marketing. • This land is very fertile. • Farming requires a great deal of capital. • She drove stakes about a foot deep in the soil and tied the tomato-stems to them. • A flock of sheep was grazing in the field. • They use about 50 cents of good land for their vegetable garden. • What are the varieties of root crops grown here? • Last year, their farm produced a fine crop of fruit. • Crops grow very well here, because the soil is really rich. • Farmland shouldn’t be left idle. • With a hoe, he broke up the surface of the soil. • You should dig the flower-bed once again before planting. • The leaves have become dry and wrinkled. • Grow spinach in rows and keep the rows free from weeds. • They’re out in the fields reaping. • His land is really level and not subject to erosion but is not suitable for cultivated crops for several reasons. • He owns a farm there. She frequently breaks up the earth between the rows of plant and removes weeds using hand cultivation. • We keep chickens on our farm, and we sell their eggs and meat. • Do they grow grapevines on that farm? • The garden is full of weeds — we must pull them out. • Garden vegetables are the most frequently produced food for home use. • They turned over the soil with a plough and planted the seeds. • He cleared away the undergrowth neatly and started preparing a seedbed. • The apple season is about to begin. • A poor water supply is a handicap for a good farm. • What’ll be the average cost of growing an acre of peas? • When you turn under soil-improving crops, that’ll improve conditions of the soil for the growth of succeeding crops. • Wheat and rice are cereals. • They have a fence around the entire farm. • That region is too dry — nothing grows there. • It’s

37 Farming, agriculture & gardening

three weeks since we’ve planted the seeds and shoots have not started to appear. • Don’t use farmland for crops it’s not suited for. • Peas grow in pods and are eaten as vegetables. • What soils are best for spinach? • We’ll have to prepare the land and grow crops on it. • Don’t permit the fields to be idle. • This dry weather is going to shrivel the crops. • We had to employ extra labour to cut the crops down and bring them in. • You need hay to feed your cattle when they can’t graze enough forage from the pastures. • You need modern machinery and equipment for good farming. • When you plant these trees, use a small quantity of wood ashes/a little well-rotted manure. • Most of the land here is very fertile. • Our area has enough annual rainfall, and we have good crop yields. • You must learn how to do the weeding. • How many cows do they have on the farm? • The leaves have shrivelled up in the sun. • How much seed is needed to plant an acre with peas? • The fields are divided from each other by hedges. • This is the mango season, and mangoes are available everywhere. • His land is not agricultural land, and is steep, rough and stony. • If you grow an acre of cabbage, what is the average yield to expect? • How many acres have rice farmers planted this year?

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38 Sports & Games

chapter 3

Sports & Games Group 1 • All our players played well today. • Our team has a fairly good chance of winning this time. • He doesn’t like indoor games. • He only likes outdoor games. • Wimbledon is a major sporting event. • She did well on Sports Day. • He was worried he’d lose his place in the team. • He’s a first-rate cricketer. • It’s a defeat — they’ve lost. • When he was younger, he used to be interested in sport. • There was keen competition among the various teams. • Don’t play that card now — play the king of clubs. • You can’t beat him at tennis. • Let’s go to the football match tomorrow, shall we? • I’ll bet they’ll win the match. • He’s the best opponent I’ve ever played against. • He works out at a gym three times a week. • He jumped 18 feet. • He’s beaten/broken the world 10,000 meters record. • The winner received a trophy and a certificate. • How many points have their team scored so far? • He plays a lot of outdoor sports. • Then she challenged him to a game of chess. • Do you like watching sports? • Our town doesn’t have an indoor swimming pool. • These exercises would help you reduce weight and improve your health. • Where are the Olympic Games going to be held this time? • Is he good at boxing/wrestling? • So far, they’ve had five wins this year. • He was listening to the sports news. • He used to play a lot of sport when he was at school. • He’s one of the best boxers, and it’ll be very difficult for anyone to take the championship from him. • Our team has won the qualifying match. • She lost the race. • This is the third time he’s taken a strike at the goal. • This stadium is often used for sporting events. • He gambles at cards. • He’s a tennis/chess champion. • I swim three times a week. • He’s

39 Sports & Games

a very good swimmer. • Who won the gold medal in the 100 metres at this year’s Olympic Games? • One thing I like about him is, he’s a very professional player. • He’s their best batsman, and with each stroke, he’s been scoring runs today. • He won the second game convincingly. • He’s one of their best batsmen. He scored a century today. • At last, he managed to beat his opponent, and he won the game. • Did she win the race? • That was an outstanding performance. • His son takes part in a lot of athletic activities. • Our college has a very good football field/ground. • She was watching their game from the stands. • I’ve never seen anyone run so fast. • He couldn’t do his morning exercises today. • He boxes/wrestles well. • Our team failed to qualify for the Asia Cup finals. • He often travels a long way to see his favourite team play. • He’s never done any sport in his life. • The other two boxers fought a match of 10 rounds. • He’s a keen football fan/ football supporter. • The game was a draw. • Has he captained the Indian team before? • How many players took part in the championship? • That was a fine defensive play — don’t you think so? • He’s a long-distance runner. • He’s a professional, and he may not like to play against an amateur. • She challenged him to a game of tennis. • They failed to qualify for the semi-finals. • They lost the second round. • You play volleyball/badminton on a court with a high net. • This is the third time she has won first place. • Give me the cards — it’s my deal this time. • Join a gym, and give your body a workout twice or thrice a week. • That was the most thrilling boxing contest I can ever remember. • The odds are 10 to 1 against that team winning. • He’s an Olympic gold medalist. • These exercises make your body fit and strong. • He can run the 100 metres faster than anybody. • They say he’s a good tennis player, but I haven’t played (against) him yet. • He plays very well, and he’s good enough to be a professional. • Have you ever run a marathon? • He’s won the first quarterfinal. • These events are meant to eliminate the weaker competitors. • Do you play a

40 Sports & Games

lot of tennis? • Thousands of supporters regularly go to watch that team play.

Group 2 • Their school has a good athletics field. • Is he good enough to play for our team? • He’s a professional sportsman. • I don’t think these exercises are good for you. You’re past 60, remember. • They sell sports equipment. • He punched the other boxer on the jaw/in the chest/in the side. • The winners all received prizes. • It’s the college sports day tomorrow. • Our team has won the first round of the tournament. • He takes exercise regularly. • I don’t know if he won or lost. • Both sides played very well. • There’s a card missing from the pack. • He bought a new tennis/ badminton racket yesterday. • Every day, he works out in the gym for an hour. • He shot two goals in the last match. • He may even break/beat the Olympic record this time. • He’s an amateur wrestler/footballer. • When will the finals of the tournament be? • How do you exercise your muscles? • He’s a champion swimmer. • Who won the cup/shield? • Their town has a huge football stadium. • Our wicket keeper missed an important catch — or we would have won the match. • When he was younger, he used to take part in track and field sports — especially running and the javelin. • I think you need more exercise. • More than 30,000 people turned up for the match. • The fighters were aiming punches at each other. • Where’s the shuttlecock? It’s my turn to serve, isn’t it? • It’s my service next. • He’s in the college team. • Two of their players were sent out of the ground for fouling. • If you want to be a good footballer, you should be good at passing. • The doctor has asked him to take more exercise. • The other boxer was knocked out in the fourth round. • The cup final took place at another stadium. • He was anxious to know the football result. • Look at the way he played/hit/kicked the ball. • Don’t try to win the match by fouling their players. • It was an easy

41 Sports & Games

catch, but the fielder dropped it. • He’s very good at sports. • He does a lot of keep-fit exercises. • Who played India this time in the final? Australia? • The crowd cheered when he received the prize. • He’s never taken part in a sports competition. • He did well in the long jump/the high jump. • Our team lost the World Cup final again this time. • Who won? • They were last year’s Cup finalists. • Tennis is his favourite sport. • Cricket and hockey are team sports. • He’s exercising in the garden. • He plays football every day. • Our team can easily defeat theirs. • The first round of the tournament starts tomorrow. • What card did you play? • He played the Ace of clubs/King of Hearts/Queen of Spades/ Jack of Diamonds/10 of clubs/9 of Hearts. • He has a lot of gymnastic skills. • Who won the championship? • It won’t be easy to defeat that team. • Both of them are football fans. • She lost the match and left the court in tears. • Don’t forget he became a champion by beating all other competitors. • He was a lap ahead of the next man, and I thought he would win the race. • He’s one of the best tennis players I’ve ever seen — he has a powerful serve. • The result is a tie. • Have you played him (at badminton)? • Where are the cards? You have the deal now. • He does a lot of gymnastic exercises every day. • This year’s chess/ tennis tournament was a great success. • Who holds the world record in/for the pole-vault? • They both play tennis very well — they won the women’s doubles last year, you know. • He’s a very talented player. • He isn’t fit. He can’t play. • Look at the way he hits the ball with his racket. • How many contestants/ competitors were there? • He finished in second place in the race and became a runner-up. • She won by 5 points. • Nowadays, he doesn’t engage in sports or fitness activities. • I’ve started going to a keep-fit-class. • He played the shot/stroke beautifully, didn’t he? • He again fouled against/on one of our players — he should be sent off. • She had to be content with second prize. • He has a lot of athletic ability.

42 Sports & Games

Group 3 • His favourite sports are football and running. • Are you interested in mountaineering? • They play very well, but they lack good sportsmanship. • The doctor has asked him to exercise himself more. • He’s a brilliant cricketer and a true sportsman. • Those two teams tied for second place in the game. • I have never played basketball. • Where are the cards? I deal next, right? • He’s healthy and strong and he regularly enters sports competitions. • Who judged the contest? • The Australian team were the world champions then. • He’s a good tennis player, and he’s likely to win the men’s singles this year. • The Asian championships are going to be held in Delhi this time. • Who beat them in the semi-finals? • He’ll be playing for us tomorrow. • He played a really bad shot this time. • She was his rival in the competition. • Don’t let your serve go into the net again. • He scored two goals in the second half of the match. • He’s a good tennis player/cricketer/golfer/footballer/snooker player. • If you exercise regularly, you can get fit and remain healthy. • Can you run a mile in 4 minutes? • At least 50,000 spectators must have watched the final game. • This is the first major trophy he’s ever won. • Their team won the Cup last year. • That was an impressive jump. • She swam the 100 metres very well. • He’s not very good at athletics. • The problem is, he doesn’t exercise enough. • Our village doesn’t have a sports field. • The match ended in a tie. • That’s not the way to hit the shuttlecock with your racket. • They’re playing poker/chess. • It was the first time she had ever taken part in a gymnastic display. • He won the first game, but lost the second and third. • This exercise improves your co-ordination. • He and his brother are the fastest runners, and they’re competing for the gold medal. • He finished only a few inches behind the winner. • That was the first time he had run in a marathon. • At last, he’s got a place in the team. • Our staff have sports competitions on January 26 every year. • There’s a

43 Sports & Games

lot of rivalry between the two teams. • He’s won a lot of sports contests. • What’s the score so far? • How often do you exercise? • The children ran races in the playground. • Spectators at a football match are always noisy. • Who presented the trophies? • The side he supported didn’t win. • He’s good at sport. • Football is an outdoor sport, but badminton is an indoor sport. • He played as our first bowler. • I don’t know how he managed to get in the team. • She lost the race. • Supporters of both the teams had packed into the stadium long before the play started. • He always gets a good hand when he plays cards. • How much money will the winner/loser get? • Is he competing in the long jump? • Who won first prize? • He played the Jack of Hearts. • Our college has a very good side/team, and we hope to win this year. • Thousands of football fans came to watch the finals. • Have you entered for the race? • He qualified for the final by beating 10 competitors. • If you play well, you can win a place for yourself on the university team. • Many companies have come forward to sponsor our team this time. • He hit the ball hard. • This was the first time they had won a game against England. • He does a lot of stomach exercises. • He had to run against some of the best runners in the race. • The spectators were shouting themselves hoarse and cheering on the team. • The last game resulted in a win for the other side. • I’m a fan of yours. • Our team will win the world championship one day. • Their team has qualified in the first quarter-final.

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44 Essential computer English

Chapter 4

Essential computer English In today’s world, computers affect everybody — whether they’re computer users or not. And most often when you have a conversation with an educated person, you find yourself having to say something or other that has to do with computers. This is so whether you actually use computers or not. (But if you want to be successful in today’s world, can you afford to stay away from computers?) And if you are a computer user, you’ll find yourself having to say things related to computers every now and then. But many people find it difficult to be fluent in computerrelated situations. The chief reason for this difficulty is not that they’re not good at composing speech generally. No. The chief reason is that they don’t have much experience in saying (and listening to) the right kind of computer-related word-groups. In fact, even people who’re in the computer industry often keep saying things that are utterly “unEnglish” and wrong. For example, many of them keep using the words “softwares” and “hardwares”, when the fact remains that software and hardware are uncountable nouns, and they cannot be made plurals by adding “s” at their ends. Similarly, they often say “computer equipments”, when the fact remains that the word “equipment” cannot be made plural at all. Actually, you shouldn’t say “softwares”, “hardwares”, “equipments” or “machineries”; you should say “(pieces of) software” or “(pieces of) hardware” or “(pieces of) equipment” or “(pieces of) machinery”, instead. The present topic is intended to give you the experience you need. Remember this: The intention is not to train you in the formal or technical vocabulary that experts alone use, but to train you in using everyday English when you have to speak in

45 Essential computer English

computer-related situations. Yes, the language you’re going to get is the language that laymen can use among themselves or when they speak to computer experts; it’s also the language that computer experts can use when they speak to laymen. Here we go for the word-groups:

Group 1 • Do you know how to use a computer? • I don’t think he’s familiar with computers. • Are you new to computers? • Show me how to make the computer do something. • Our computer was down for an hour yesterday, and so I couldn’t complete the job. • My computer doesn’t work — it doesn’t even give an error message. • Do you have a computer? • Computers have become smaller, cheaper and more powerful. • Have you turned the computer off at the plug? • Computer is a good way to get more done in less time. • I can’t access the menu. • He taught us how to create files and folders, how to save files to the hard disk, how to copy and rename files, and how to delete them. • Their firm produces computer software. • I’m not an expert or anything — I’m just a normal computer user. • Show him how to format a floppy disk, will you? • How do I get back to DOS? • These bills were made by computers. • Before you buy your computer, think carefully about what you want to use it for. • Can you show me how to load this program onto the computer? • Without the proper software, your computer won’t be able to do anything. • My disc is full. • Is your PC still under warranty? • The monitor goes blank often — but the press of a key restores it. • You don’t need to know how a computer works — you only need to know how to use it. • I’ve been trying to learn some basic computer stuff. • Those two files can only be accessed with special keystrokes. • You’d better store the backup disks in some other room. • Is the computer’s power cord plugged into the wall? • It’ll be less expensive to upgrade the computer you already have than to buy a new computer. • Do you know how to use a computer and

46 Essential computer English

do something? • Computers came about as the result of a long series of experiments. • I don’t think the keyboard is plugged in right. • Of course, computers take away some people’s jobs. At the same time, they also create a number of new jobs. • I’m thinking of buying an accounting application. • Did you install any new part recently? • His new computer has a colour monitor. • Monochrome monitors are cheaper. • If your computer doesn’t work, look for loose cables. • The computer system at the bank crashed today, and I couldn’t withdraw the money I needed. • He leaves his computer turned on all the time. • I have a broken hard disk/a broken monitor. Do you know anyone who can repair it? • You should make a backup of all the information held on the computer. • The computers you buy today will be out of date in two or three years. • I accidentally typed a wrong command. • All he knows is a few common computer phrases. • Your monitor should be up around your eye-level. • Look at the speed computer technology is advancing at. • Which key should I press to exit the system? • How do you format discs? • Is the power light on the front of the system unit on? • I’ve been fiddling around with a new piece of software. • Viruses are nasty computer programs, you know — and they can infect your computer. • He seems to have fallen in love with computers. • Computer technology is progressing very fast. • Hardware is the physical part of the computer. • Software controls what a computer does. • The keyboard was working okay in the morning, but now it doesn’t work. • Check the cable connections. • He’s paid a lot of money for his computer. • Software is the set of instructions that make a computer work. • You have to learn what computers can do and what they can’t. • His computer has 128 MB of memory. • Peel and stick the sticky label onto the floppy disk.

Group 2 • There are lots of reasons to learn about computers. • He’s very good at fixing computers. • That’s a new software package, and I

47 Essential computer English

don’t know how to use it. • Computer software comes on floppy disks and CDs. • Have you plugged the mouse all the way in? • Check the brightness knob on the monitor. Has someone turned it down? • I’m very seriously thinking about getting a computer. • The printer receives input from the PC and generates output in the form of a print-out. • Don’t you know what a computer is? • I think it’s high time you started learning basic computer skills. • If your PC seems completely dead, make sure all connections are right. • If you want to exit, press the ‘Escape’ key. • I started up the computer, but all I got was a blank screen. Is my monitor the problem? • The monitor is blank. • What’s the storage capacity of your hard disk? • They’ll teach you everything you need to know about your computer. • Copy the files from the floppies to the hard disk. • I can’t get in to the program. • The software tells the hardware what to do. • When I press keys, the keyboard doesn’t respond. • I know what computers are, and something about the way they work. • The repair man forgot to turn off the power before opening the PC. • There’s been a number of important computer developments recently. • He told us about a few day-to-day mistakes computer users tend to repeat. • Copy all this onto a CD. • This program doesn’t take much time to load. • My document isn’t printing right. • It can take months to gain skill and confidence with your new computer. • Their company makes computer hardware. • I find myself frustrated by the way the computer has slowed down. • I can’t log on/in. • How much memory does your computer have? • Computer programs are called software. • Is the power light on the front of the monitor on? • Computers are becoming more and more common everywhere. • The computer suddenly stopped working. • At the end of the day, he always backs up his work to/onto floppy disks. • A computer is like a super calculator. • You’re going to have to know something about computers if you want to be successful in your career. • Just restart the computer. • How do I get it to print? • I think you’ve entered the command incorrectly — that’s why the computer is not responding.• Are all

48 Essential computer English

the cables plugged in securely? • Load the CD into the computer. • My computer keeps crashing. • Boot up the computer, will you? • Has the computer booted up? • If you don’t want to lose information, back up the hard disk regularly. • My floppy drive isn’t working properly. • Did they teach you anything substantial about your computer? • This is the second time our computer network has crashed this week. • My mouse is stuck, and it has locked my system up. • Comparison of these figures will be made by computer. • If you want to keep up with advancing technology, you’ll have to upgrade your PC from time to time. • He’s writing software to do this work quickly. • A computer helps you get organized. • I’m just trying to get acquainted with the keyboard. • All these problems were caused by computer error. • Have you changed anything on your computer recently? Added a second floppy drive or a new piece of software or something? • A computer user doesn’t have to learn the inner-workings of a PC. • They installed a new computer system in their office last week. • One thing about computers is, they make information easy to store and retrieve. • Computer hardware is computer machinery and equipment. • The system crashed in the morning, and it was down for three hours. • They have a computer network with 100 or so terminals. • Keep the keyboard below your elbow level, so you can avoid injury to your wrists. • How do I get back to the desktop? • The screen is frozen. • The screen is not moving. • I’m using the keyboard, but nothing’s happening. • The monitor is wavy. • I don’t think he has any experience with PCs.

Group 3 • I had accidentally jerked/pulled a cable loose from the back of the monitor — that was what caused the problem. • They’ve been trying to program their computer to do this job. • We use a computer to keep track of accounts and invoices. • Have you opened up your PC at any time and looked inside? • Have you

49 Essential computer English

keyed all the data into the computer? • My computer keeps freezing up — the Service Engineer says there’s a bug in the software. • What does ‘illegal operation’ mean? • Are all viruses destructive? • If you want to run the latest software, you may have to upgrade your PC. • Computers are very useful. • Computers can be linked together in networks. • The monitor is an expensive piece of equipment. • All day today, she’s been entering data into the computer. • Just click on that program’s icon. • That’s a fast hard disk, and it can store and retrieve data instantly. • If you add more memory, you can make your computer run faster. • We’ll have to load the new software now. • As soon as she came in, she sat down at her computer and started working. • When did you start noticing these problems (with your PC)? • If you want the computer to run faster, you’ll have to upgrade its memory. • I can’t get this computer to work.• Computers are changing our lives in a number of ways. • I saw her going into that room with computer print-outs. • How do I print out a file? • Computers started out as mere playthings, you know. • I don’t think this information is available on the computer. • I think a virus has infected his computer. • We’re planning to add some more memory to our computer. • Are any cables or wires stretched too tightly? • Computer industry has been booming for some time now. • Do you use a computer at work? • I’ve only fiddled around with the program — I haven’t explored its features yet. • There’s no point in giving a hard copy to them — copy the information to a floppy, and give the floppy to them. • That’s a cheap computer assembled by his brother. • Computers are great at playing games too. • Our sales figures are kept on computer. • Try adjusting the brightness and contrast controls on the monitor. • I think your computer needs more memory/a bigger hard drive. • I accidentally deleted that file, but I could restore it from the backup disk. • Don’t you know how to turn off the computer? • When we started using a computer in our office, we could cut down on typing and paper work. • Where does the mouse plug into the computer? • Copy that file

50 Essential computer English

to a floppy disk, will you? • He had to access three or four files to get the information. • I think the wall socket has gone dead. Why don’t you try plugging the computer into another outlet? • His desk was covered with pages of computer print-out. • What word processing software do you use? • Have you started using that new program? • How do I change fonts? • If your computer’s memory capacity is more, it can do more things. • This mouse is compatible with most computers. • What are the software programs they sell? • If you’re planning to buy a computer, don’t shop for the cheapest price. • Operating systems and computer programs are all (different pieces of) software. • I want to learn the basics and put my computer to work. • You’ve forgotten to turn on the monitor. • People link computers together to share data or programs. • The common cause of this problem is an insufficient amount of memory. • Basically, computers process information, and show the results. • Computers make doing everything easier. • Nothing happens when I press this key. • My PC won’t boot, and I hear beeps. • He’s taken his computer to a repair place. • Do you know how to key in written texts? • Is the monitor plugged in correctly? • How can I avoid getting a virus? • Press the return key now. • I accidentally pressed a wrong key. • My PC is making a strange noise. • Spend a few days, and learn about your computer first.

Group 4 • Desktop computers run on electricity. • He’s very good at diagnosing problems with PCs. • You can turn the computer on by flipping the power switch on the system unit. • A computer helps you work more efficiently. • Increased memory can make many programs work faster. • He’s written a computer program to calculate the profit made by the firm quickly. • Computers have no resale value. • My computer has been having start-up problems recently. • Now we should copy all this data onto floppy disks. • Computers affect every one of us — every day. • Give me

51 Essential computer English

a printout of that document, will you? • Memory chips and hard disks are not terribly expensive, but I think the motherboard is. • You need software to get work done on any computer. • My computer froze up during a spell-check. • They’re going to buy new data processing software. • If you keep the monitor turned up too bright, that’d be bad for the eyes. • I want to get to know a bit more about what a computer can do for me. • They never run illegally-copied programs on their computer. • He spends hours every day at his computer. • I don’t know a thing about how to use a computer. • There are certain necessary things that you should know about computers. • Is the computer on? • I don’t remember the password. • Turn the monitor off, and after 20 or 30 seconds, turn it back on. • Describe the problem in full detail to the repair people. • I can’t come out now — I’m doing a backup. • Do you know how to fix your PC when things go wrong? • Go to a knowledgeable computer user, and get some instruction from him. • Computers can carry out complicated calculations very quickly. • Plug the printer into the computer. • How do I change the paper orientation? • The main cause of this problem is low memory. • How do I get my document out of the print queue? • Colour monitors are more expensive than monochrome. • I’ve run into a really strange problem with my computer. • His company produces computer hardware. • Check all the cables behind the computer — if any of them is loose, plug it back into the socket. • Slide the floppy disk into the floppy drive carefully. • My keyboard has gone dead. • Check if any of the plugs are out of their sockets. • What are the different kinds of software applications you use at work? • MS Word, Wordstar and Wordperfect are word processing applications. • I think your hard drive needs to be upgraded. • The keyboard plugs in at the back of the computer. • Don’t turn the computer on and off rapidly. • If you turn off the computer, and if you want to turn it on again, wait for 20 to 30 seconds. • I know my way around a program or two. •

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There was a bug in the computer program — which was why these problems have been happening. • Turn off the computer when you’re done. • The great thing about computers is, they reduce tedious human labour. • Power supplies in PCs are relatively inexpensive. • What are the records you entered into the computer today? • Delete all unnecessary files and programs, so you can free up more space on the hard disk. • Make a copy of the file on a floppy disk, and give it to me. • Don’t you know how to exit the program? • Who’s that working on your PC? • Is he a repair man? • The printer cable plugs into the computer here. • The program should now open in a new window. • I think your computer’s memory needs to be upgraded. • You should access the databases today and update them. • Do you run any special virus-protection software on your PC? • She doesn’t have much experience working with computers. • Computers affect us in more ways than we imagine. • Have you labelled the floppy disk? • Sometimes problems like these go away when you reboot your computer. • You’ll have to learn how to organize the files on your hard disk. • We have the details of all our customers on computer. • My mouse has frozen. • How do you start this program? • Computers — it’s a subject you have to keep up with. • Computers have now become affordable.

Group 5 • Don’t forget to disconnect all the cables from the back of the PC before opening it. • The candidates must have basic knowledge of computers and ability to use them. • There’s some basic information you should know before you buy a computer. • At the end of each day, we make a backup of all the data we’ve keyed into the computer. • The screen is blank. • I think you have a disk problem. • I’m thinking of taking a computer programming course. • There are a number of computer repair shops in this area. • He’s bought the computer to do word processing. • My computer locks up unexpectedly — yes, it stops working altogether. • The power cord plugs into the back of the computer. • The on-screen

53 Essential computer English

pointer doesn’t move when I move the mouse. • He’s installing a new program. • Computers help doctors make their diagnosis. • Before you buy software, make sure that it works/runs on your system. • His old secretary was not computer-literate. • How do I get it to print out? • What are the programs installed on this computer? • If you want to avoid back pains, you’d better buy a chair designed to be used with a computer. • When you push the little plastic button just below the floppy drive slot, the drive will eject the disk. • This problem happened when the computer was spell-checking my work. • We’re planning to add a new terminal to our computer network. • If you’re planning to use graphical applications, better buy a colour monitor. • It says I have a bad disc sector. • Will the computer get damaged if lightning strikes? • How do I get back to the main menu? • Before you install any software on your PC, check it for viruses. • Computers help you organize your finances. • It can take weeks to learn the important features of a new piece of software. • We’ll have to take all precautions to avoid a computer crash. • Are you familiar with the inner workings of your computer? • She has an impressive command of computers. • I can’t get in to my file. • The problem came up because one of the program files was corrupted. • That’s a new database program. • Print that file on paper and give it to me — I need a hard copy. • In general, computers are quite durable. • They have a computer to do accounting. • If you want to store more programs and data, you need a larger hard drive. • Save the work to your hard disk. • The computer was down since the morning — it’s now up again. • Make a copy of the file before you delete it. • Is there a loose cable? Check all the cables behind the system unit. • I can’t access my disc. • I haven’t loaded the file yet. • Did you try out the computer before you bought it? • Jobs like these are handled by computer in our office. • Do you know how to use a word processor? • The monitor appears totally blank — do you think the monitor is broken? • If you buy a computer

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from them, they’ll give you the service and support you need. • Save your work before you shut down the computer. • Computer literacy — it’s very important in today’s world. • The computer booted up fine, but the picture on the monitor looks funny. • The ‘Backspace’ key doesn’t work right. • Insert a floppy disk in drive A. • Are all the cables in the back of the monitor secure? • The computer froze when I pressed the ESCAPE key — it stopped responding to my commands.

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55 Crime

Chapter 5

Crime Group 1 • They took him to the police station with them. • The accused was remanded in custody. • The trial is expected to take place immediately. • He was arrested for taking part in a bank robbery. • White-collar crimes are on the increase in many countries. • They hijacked the plane at gunpoint. • The terrorists were kept under armed guard. • The police searched the house for clues. • He’s not been charged for any offence so far. • His main nighttime activity is burglary. • The terrorists blew up the bridge. • The police have picked him up for questioning. • He’s been in prison for two years now, and has never been released on parole so far. • Prison doesn’t change many criminals. • He’ll now be tried in a court for the crime. • Both the robbers have been sent to prison. • He’ll have to stand trial for murder. • Don’t let any strangers in. • The police have not made any arrests so far. • Mugging is on the increase in that area. • The accused is liable to life imprisonment. • He was arrested for conspiracy to murder. • The police haven’t been able to catch the culprits so far. • Gambling is illegal in this country. • Many criminals don’t get punished for their crimes. • Their accountant bled them dry. • You’re lucky to get off with a caution. • Hanging has been abolished in several countries. • She caught a person breaking open her door. • Most traffic offences are punishable with a fine. • He’s in custody and will now be tried in a court. • The prisoners were taken to the court under guard. • The terrorists have planned to do away with the Home Minister. • They were injured in the riot. • Many of these prisoners expect to be pardoned and set free. • He’s in prison for forgery and cheating. • His duty was to guard the minister’s children. • He was

56 Crime

found guilty and was sentenced to two years in prison. • He got away with only a fine. • This isn’t the first time she has been picked for shoplifting. • The court acquitted him of all the charges against him. • The accused in this case faces life imprisonment. • He’s a shady character — don’t have anything to do with him. • Send for the police quickly. • Every official we approached wanted money before helping us. • He decided to plead guilty and to go to jail. • He cheated her out of her money. • He was convicted of rape and sent to jail. • He was arrested for aiding and abetting them in the fraud. • I saw a police officer in uniform standing there. • There were two policemen on patrol that night. • Many tourists are victims of petty theft. • These are minor traffic offences. • What you’ve done is a breach of our agreement. • The demonstrators hurled bottles and overturned cars. • Petty theft has been increasing in this neighbourhood for sometime now. • Is he involved in the scandal? • There were police officers at every door of the building. • He admitted to the police that he was guilty. • Somebody has stolen my watch. • The criminals have all been arrested. • We must help the police find the culprits. • Nobody can make them see the error of their ways. • He was lucky to get off with a light sentence. • One of the robbers stood at the gate to keep watch for the police. • There was only a small group of policemen to deal with the riot. • He was found guilty, and they put him away for 5 years. • As soon as he was arrested, he confessed to the murder. • They were never punished for their crimes. • This is the first time he’s been allowed out of jail. • The bombs failed to explode. • They have no clue about the murderer’s identity. • They smashed windows and looted stores. • The police have started investigating the murder. • The escaped prisoners have gone into hiding. • Many of the beggars in that area live off petty crimes. • He stole a book from the library. • The trial ended in acquittal/conviction. • He’s a convicted thief. • The police have caught two of the robbers. • He paid the penalty for breaking the law. • The police have completely cordoned off the area. •

57 Crime

He was hauled up in court for drunken driving. • He stopped running away from the police and gave himself up. • He was arrested for carrying illegal drugs.

Group 2 • I don’t think he’s the culprit. • They accused him of murder, kidnapping and bombing. • Hijacking is done mostly for political reasons. • A police officer stopped him and cautioned him for driving too fast. • He was fined for dangerous driving. • A number of demonstrators were injured. • Crimes like these will not go unpunished. • He was arrested for beating up somebody. • They’ve locked him up in jail. • He must have been running away from the police. • Two police officers took the prisoners away. • She killed him by using poison. • Someone has taken the money. • He got injured in a bar brawl. • If you break the law, you will be severely punished. • The police will be investigating the allegations thoroughly. • They deliberately destroy public property. • Terrorists and gangsters hire him to kill people. • The police are expected to protect us and our property. • He makes money by deceit and trickery. • Someone has lifted my wallet. • He hired a hit-man to kill them. • They’ll arrest him soon. • The police searched everywhere in the house, but couldn’t find the murder weapon. • He was arrested for breaking and entering. • The demonstrators clashed with the police. • He was pardoned and released from prison last week. • Nobody saw the crime taking place. • Don’t forget that he was caught committing a crime. • Some thugs attacked her and took all her money last night. • They didn’t guard the prisoners well, and the prisoners escaped. • This is nothing but blackmail. • The murderer was sentenced to death. • Their accountant was a crook. • Strictly speaking, you’re guilty of law-breaking. • He’s a criminal specializing in armed robbery. • He used to take part in armed robbery. • He attacked them and did them in with a hammer. • Don’t park your car there. • He

58 Crime

gets money by doing all sorts of dishonest things. • They kept him in the lockup for the night. • We’ve been swindled! • If you drive too fast, you may get booked. • They sent him to prison for armed robbery. • That court deals with drug offenders. • The court found him guilty, and he got three years in prison. • He’s a detective working in the police force there. • Two of the robbers managed to escape. • You should post some guards to protect the area. • The police detained him for questioning at the police station. • All his life, he has fought against crime. • The murderer has turned himself in. • The police have uncovered a plot to assassinate the Prime Minister. • They couldn’t stop the prisoners from escaping. • They’re a gang of thugs/criminals/ terrorists. • Do you like gangster films? • They held him up at gunpoint and robbed him. • He’s a dangerous criminal. • He’s a hardened criminal. • You were trespassing on their land. • He was charged with extortion. • He’s a convicted criminal. • He’s determined to expose corruption in the government. • The guards checked the visitors for guns. • His job is to catch smugglers. • The court has dismissed the charges against him. • Nobody will be able to bring criminals like him to justice. • The terrorists killed him for informing on them. • It’s illegal to drink and drive. • Bribery is a serious crime. • He attacked those people and stole their money. • Someone broke into his house last night. • He’s guilty of a serious crime. • They lead a life of crime. • I think the evidence has been made up to get him convicted. • Somebody robbed them of all their money. • He uses force and threats and gets money from people. • They look after law and order in the city. • Someone broke into his house and made off with all his money. • His house is a meeting place for all kinds of criminals. • They roam around looking for something to steal. • Nobody likes the police there.

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59 Nature

Chapter 6

Nature Group 1 • The rain-soaked earth — it has a sort of smell — a pleasant smell, you know. • The mango trees — they were in bloom. • The soil was damp — and sweet smelling. • The village was noisy with activity. • The grass was very green. • Look at the mountains beyond those hills — the snow-covered mountains, I mean. • Voices of people talking — the voices came clearly across the water. • The lawns were green. • The winds came from the mountains far away. • We walked along a sandy path. • Damp clay — the bank of the river was heavy with it. • I felt a strange peace — a strange, all-pervading peace. • There was no colour in the sky. • There were a number of huts with thatched roofs. • The calf was calling for its mother. • The rain was pattering on the roof, and I sat there listening to it. • Her garden has open, green lawns. • The trees were still bare. • The birds carried on with their chatter. • There were large puddles all along the path. • Children were shouting with laughter along the beach. • The branches and leaves — they were stirred by the breeze. • There were acres of green lawns and lovely trees. • There was a soft breeze — and it came from the north. • We could see birds bathing on the edges of the streams. • The hills looked beautiful against the blue sky. • The earth was full of dead leaves. • The sun was over the hills — the eastern hills. • The sky was pale blue. • The horizon — it was filled with white clouds. • The mountains were shining — shining with the setting sun. • The tree trunks — they looked dark. • There was a grove of bamboos to my right — and a grove of mangoes to my left. • The eagle was not beating its wings and was floating on the breeze. • There

60 Nature

was a movement of some kind in the woods. • Outside, the moon was bright. • The skies suddenly cleared. • It was a rough road used by the villagers. • It was a beautiful country. • It was a clear starry night. • The bushes have started flowering. • It was cool in the shade. • The crows were fighting. • We sat there, facing the sea. • Look at those dark, heavy clouds. • The earth was soggy. • The trees were covered with tender green leaves. • There was a glow in the sky — the eastern sky. • It was very quiet in the valley. • I could hear the roar of the sea. • There was a gentle breeze. • The valley was full of trees and streams. • The fields were green — green with the sprouting rice. • I found the evening full of light and, you know, splendour. • The leaves sparkled — in the clear air. • The sound of the song — it filled the air. • It was a moment of great beauty — of great beauty and stillness. • It was impossible to see the birds in the dark foliage. • The hills were not high. • The stars were very clear. • The wild bushes were green. • The hills in the distance looked black. • The smell of the earth — that pleasant smell — it filled the air. • There was a goat tied to a fruit tree. • All along the banks of the river, there were trees. • The path ended at the bank of a stream. • The tall palms were very still.

Group 2 • The hills, trees and everything — they looked alive and serene. • Through the window, you could just see the sea. • The rain was welcome after the hot days. • The smell of the mango — it was in the air. • The sound of falling water — that was pleasant. • We were far away from noise and confusion. • The leaves are full of dust — the summer’s dust. • The goats were eating wild bushes. • The soil was damp from the rains — the recent rains. • All round, there were wide-spreading trees. • The birds were still asleep in the trees. • There was this sound of running water among the bushes, and we sat listening to it. • There were many small streams going through the valley. • It was a most lovely evening. • There’s a slight mist today — a slight ground mist. •

61 Nature

A gentle breeze was blowing — from the south. • There were a few red paths, and they wound through the palm groves. • We had a long, hot summer this year. • The morning star was barely visible. • The earth was soft under the feet. • The tree was full of leaves — tender new leaves. • There was the smell of rain — and of dampness. • Not a ripple on the water. • The leaves of the tree — they were making shadows on the wall. • Listen to the frogs croaking. • The dew was still on the fields — and on the leaves. • The road was full of puddles. • The sun was just up, and it was quite early. • Look at those vultures — they’re moving without a flutter of their wings. • The river was wide and curving. • The flowers looked intense — intense in their yellow. • My feet sank into the clay — the damp clay. • The woods — they spread for miles over the hills. • There was a straight path, and it cut across the lawn. • It had rained a great deal, and the fields were under the water. • They sat there, feeding the ducks. • Solitude — the purity of solitude — that’s what the whole place had. • The surface of the water was still, and there were fishing boats on it. • It had rained all night. • We walked up a steep path — and then down a long slope. • Several trees overhung the road. • It was a nice garden with flowering bushes. • The sea was dark — and restless. • The sun was setting. • It was a well-kept and well-watered garden. • The raindrops on the flowers — they looked beautiful. • There were a number of goats scattered about on the hillside. • The clouds were red — golden red. • The earth was red and dry. • There were overhanging trees all along the road. • The clouds were fantastically shaped. • With the dawn, the frogs became silent. • A large bird — it was trying to catch fish. • The trees were dark against the evening sky. • Birds began their chatter as soon as it began to get light. • The water on the path was ankle deep. • Look at those clouds behind the mountains. • She sat there watching the waves come in and go out. • There was dust everywhere. • The sea was very blue. • There was a sweet scent in the air. • The grain was ripening in the fields. • A bird came swooping in a curve and caught an

62 Nature

insect. • There was a strong smell of seaweed. • There were deep pools of clear water. • The sea was calm. • The sea was violent and threatening. • The trees were putting out green leaves. • We were then going through the outskirts of the city. • The birds were searching for worms. • The clouds hid the sun. • A bird flew across the moon — silently. • It was a rough, pebbly road. • There were a number of cows among the trees. • The bird was perched on a branch of a tree — a dead branch. • There was plenty of shade under the trees. • The moon made a path of light on the river. • The garden overlooked the river. • We could see a few stars through the trees. • The road curved and went past the ruins. • The grapes were just beginning to ripen. • The sky was intensely blue. • It was quite early, and there was a beginning of a glow in the east. • The road was crowded with bullock-carts. • There was a pleasant smell in the air — the pleasant smell of the rose. • Soon we reached the foot of a rocky hill. • It was cool after the hot, sunny day. • The wind had stopped blowing. • The pond was full to the brim. • The rain has washed away the dust — the dust of months. • The cats were chasing each other. • There were a great many birds running up and down the lawn. • Look at those flowers shining — you know, with bright colours. • It was a very peaceful evening. • The blue of the sky was intense. • It was a beautiful bird — its beak was red, and its tail was green. • There was a cool breeze from the mountains. • It was pleasant in the shade of the big tree. • There was a column of smoke going straight up on the hills. • It was very quiet by the river. • There were jasmines in bloom. • The whole garden — it looked like an enchanted place. • The plants were beginning to bloom with red flowers. • There were rows of carefully-planted palm trees. • The leaves were covered with fine, red dust. • The birds have settled down for the night. • They were resting in the cool shade of the tree. • The sun was very clear in the sky. • There were butterflies hovering about the roses. • The horizon was clear. • The trees and bushes were intensely green. • There

63 Nature

was an open market on the roadside. • The worms were the same colour as the tender leaves. • The leaves were dark green. • There was a stream of cool, fresh water among the bushes. • The air was completely still. • There were green trees on both sides of the road. • The sun had just set, and we stood there watching the glow — the golden glow. • The creepers grew on that wall. • The sea was very calm. • The rabbit came out from the thick bushes. • There were a few birds perching among the rose bushes. • There was a little stream — flowing under the stone bridge. • There was a sparkle in the sea. • It was a lovely place — rich and enchanting. • It had been raining all night long, and now it was slowly clearing up. • The sun was now a huge ball — a huge golden ball above the hills. • The river was swollen. • I sat there, listening to the hum of the bees. • The rose bushes were covered with bright red roses. • The trees and bushes were still, and they looked beautiful in the moonlight. • The shadows were clear and sharp. • The sun was setting, and clouds were golden. • It was a small, well-kept park. • There was a smell of the rain on dry earth. • Someone was playing the flute, and I could hear its notes in the distance. • A few drops of rain fell. • It was pleasant and peaceful by the stream. • The sky was intensely blue. • Frogs were making a loud noise. • The woods extended for miles. • The vegetables they sold looked wilted. • Look at the hills across the lake. • The light of the setting sun — the golden light — the river was full of it. • The eagle was making wide circles in the sky. • The trees were washed by the recent rains. • Smoke was rising from the huts. • The rain washed the leaves clean of the dust on them. • There was a bird perching on a huge, jutting rock. • The vineyard was rich and full. • To the west, a storm was gathering. • Enchanting beauty — you know, that’s what I saw everywhere. • It had rained most of the morning, and everywhere there were running streams. • The tree was full of fruit. • She waters the grass morning and evening. • The frogs were having a splendid time. • Squirrels wandered in and out of the bushes.

64 Nature

• There was a circle of dampness around each bush. • The place was full of movement and bustle. • We could see a few cows grazing in the meadow. • There was a long, wide bend in the river at that point. • After the rain, the hill was sparkling in the sun. • The rain was still coming down, and the crows were soaked. • It was pleasant in the moonlight. • A bird called from somewhere nearby. • It was very cool under the trees. • There was water running in the sandy beds, and it made a pleasant noise. • The clouds seemed alive. • The village on the other bank of the river hadn’t been awake yet. • There were low bushes among the rocks. • There was a gentle breeze, and it was stirring among the corn. • The water in the lake was still and clear. • There was a scent in the air — a scent of jasmine. • The morning sun was upon the white clouds. • The water ran down the hill, and it made a pleasant noise. • The waves were coming in very gently. • The trees along the bank of the river reflected on the water.

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65 Buildings and Home

Chapter 7

Buildings and Home Group 1 • Her father is a builder. • He doesn’t have a good home life. • He came in through the front door. • They sat on the sofa/couch/ settee and talked. • She lives in Delhi. • They’re renovating their country house. • Those are large and expensive flats. • He’s in the garden shed. • That bed is a fine piece of furniture. • Go along the corridor. • He’s gone home. • Don’t forget to flush the toilet. • They spent a lot of money fitting out the new house. • They have a cottage by the sea. • He works in the building trade. • We slept out in a tent last night. • Their flat is on the top floor of the building. • We should call for a plumber — this drainpipe has a hole in it. • They went to China and settled there. • That’s a large and splendid house. • His friend will put him up for the night. • That house has a sloping roof and is supported by sloping beams. • They sat in the living room and chatted. • We’re going to clean the house down this weekend. • He met with an accident on the building site. • He has built houses for two of my friends. • They’ve rented the house from him. • The doorway is quite wide. • There was a large open space between their house and garden. • There’s a line of joined houses a little away from there. • He lives abroad most of the year. • I can’t walk up the stairs — I’ll take the lift. • I must go to the toilet. • We’ll go and wait at the bus shelter. • They live in a large, grand house. • He’s an architect. • She stood there looking out of the window. • The children were playing in the attic. • There are a number of houses like these in the outer parts of the town. • There’s a garage as part of their house. • That’s a large house, and the dining hall is in the north wing. • There’s a corridor leading from the front

66 Buildings and Home

door. • Do you have a flat here? • We’ll have to buy some new household equipment. • The whole new area is covered with buildings now. • He’s not a visitor — he lives there. • The dog went out through an opening in the wall. • Where do you live? • That building is divided into flats and offices. • She decorated the walls with pictures. • He was sitting on the divan. • I met him in the passage way. • The dirty water doesn’t flow away from the bath. • They have nice curtains in their house. • They have a small house in the country. • They’re putting up a new building there. • They left India, and settled in Canada. • I only had a single room for living and sleeping in. • These waste pipes carry water and waste away from the building. • He lives in a large, showy building. • The gardens around the hospital are full of flowers, grass and paths. • The roof is supported by a row of pillars. • The rails along the balcony prevented her from falling down. • He’ll put up at a guest house for the night. • He’s thinking of building a house there. • Who built your house? • They live next door to us. • The house is fitted up with the most up-to-date appliances. • He left the car in the drive. • The government has decided to settle the refugees there. • Is it a tall, narrow building? • They grow flowers and vegetables on their garden. • A few rails were missing from the side of the stairs. • We’re planning to put wallpaper on the walls. • He’s looking for a plumber to fit pipes in that building. • He was sitting at his desk and reading. • Their house has a steeply sloping roof. • Their house is of excellent construction. • I occupied a room there for a few months. • Their old house had a tiled roof. • Our village is a pleasant place in summer.

Group 2 • He used to live in a house with a large garden. • We can put you up for a few nights. • You can go from the first floor to the second floor either up the stairs there or up that ramp. • They’re in the dining room. • Where’s the car park? • We lived in tents

67 Buildings and Home

for a week. • They’re planning to build a house out of wood. • I want to live a quiet life. • She went out through the back door. • One of our trees grows over our neighbour’s garden. • That’s a strongly-built building. • We lived in the US for a time and then went on to the UK. • They waited in the hall. • That chair is broken. • We store water in that tank. • These plants decorate the house very well, don’t they? • They were living in a roughly made hut. • He has planned and built several buildings. • We have to find a home for them for a short time. • There’s a lot of work and organization involved in running a home. • That’s a strongly-made building. • Is there anything wrong with the plumbing? • They’ll provide you with a place to live for a short time. • They have a large house in the village with a large area of land around it. • It was very hot last night, and we all slept in the yard. • The roof is supported by a row of arches. • Their new house has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. • There’s no open place there where people can leave their cars. • How much do your household expenses come to? • They’re repairing the upper floor of their house. • Have they moved to their new house? • There are built-in cupboards in their house. • I don’t own this house — I’m just a tenant. • The cows came in through an opening in the fence. • They live at 48, Gandhi Street. • They’re planning to build a new office block there. • That’s just a shed for storing things. • He lives in a comfortable house. • In case of fire, you’ll be able to get out through the fire escape. • I must go to the bathroom. • He has a large writing table. • He lives in a small building made of wood. • There are several fine buildings in our city. • They’re staying at a hotel in the city. • Who lives in the annexe? • The latrine needs a good clean-out. • To us, our home is a palace. • Let’s clear out all the cupboards first. • His house is built on two levels. • They used to live in the upstairs flat here. • The grounds of their country house are enclosed by a wall. • Our country has special housing problems. • They’ve erected a memorial for him in the village. • Who owns that house? • Hang

68 Buildings and Home

up your clothes in the wardrobe. • Do you know the way out of this building? • The lawn is covered with closely-cut grass. • There was a doormat just outside the door. • Where did the guests stay? • They stayed in a camp during the summer holidays. • We’re planning to fence our garden. • They laid new carpets on the floor/staircase. • She keeps dishes and cooking pots in a corner in the kitchen. • It’s going to cost a lot to decorate the house. • We used to live in a small, dirty house there. • That’s a large fine building. • Most of them live in the poorer areas of the city. • Their house has a cellar, and they store a lot of things there. • Those are large houses belonging to the wealthy people. • I’m staying at a friend’s house. • The town hall has large pillars. • At that time, we were sitting in the balcony. • Put the car in the garage. • They live in a nice little house.

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69 a-and-an word clusters

Chapter 8

a-and-an word clusters In Book 18, I gave you a collection of specially-chosen nominal word groups (most of which start with the indefinite article ‘a’, and some of which, with the indefinite article ‘an’). And I told you in that Book how important those word groups were – to speak about a wide range of topics. Go through that Book and refresh your memory. You’re now going to get another rich collection of word groups of the same kind. Practise saying them ALOUD – several times. Here we go:

Group 1 a clever yet simple idea; a novel founded on facts; a severe black dress; a likely place to fish; an attack on the enemy; a day marked by misfortune; a sum of money; a set of articles for sale; a false sense of security; a mind of great depth; a bank of file drawers; a very serious matter; a firm publishing reference books; a property of the chemical; a diet poor in nutrients; a car in good condition; a cross on a chain; a wave of visitors; a short way from here; a weight off your mind; a tone of voice; a mean thing to say; a cancer in our society; a star in the making; a new variety of rose; an across-the-board wage increase; a criminal waste of resources; a good deal of money; a pause in the conversation; a new challenge in his life; an application for a driving licence; a career as a teacher; a break in their education; a poor crop of apples; a wild football crowd; a view of the sea; a matter of a few days; a room on the top floor; an artist of note; a new way of painting; a notice in the paper; a splash of colour; a careful piece of work; an addition to the report; a skin forming on the coffee;

70 a-and-an word clusters

a model of the new airport; an element of danger; a split in the political party; an air of indifference; a national of this country; a personal phone call at work; a woman of ability; an apparent lack of knowledge; a disease attacking the nervous system; a story based on real life; a free run to the coast; a wild young stallion; an area settled by refugees; a temperature above the average; a condition of the contract; a man with a beard. a share of the market; a powerful argument against leaving; a lift to the station; a face drawn with sorrow; a shake of the head; a piece in the paper; a stickler for detail; a typical representative of its class; a poor specimen of a man; a new kind of dictionary; a cardboard model of the ship; a good market for cars; an Act of Parliament; a good knowledge of wine; a clear case of cheating; a foreign body in the eye; an important business matter; a big figure in the movement; a wave in the hair; a word to the wise; a good pass to the midfielder; a new approach to teaching; a vehicle for their propaganda; a film that is particularly good; a scheme for raising money; a pain in her leg; a chapter of the society; a leg at each corner; a ring of people stood around; a scene from the film; an association of women’s groups; a sore place on her arm; a sense of humour; a tour of the palace; a woman in labour; a man of the West; a high position in government; a slightly built boy; a heavy fall of snow; a name for being lazy; a sharp drop to the sea; a low standard of living; a want of decent restaurants; a different branch of the company; a few articles of jewellery; an object of interest; a large amount of money; a path through the trees; a coat with two pockets; a brief stay at a hotel; a witness for the prosecution; a better course of action; a screen on a window; a quick look at the map; a straight and valued colleague; a very able candidate; an appeal for help; a rest for the vase; an earthy sense of humour; a man of noble birth. a road full of turns; a bridge over the river; a preserve for endangered species; a good reason for going; a likely place for a picnic; a path along the river; a regular spot on the programme; a letter from my brother; an article attacking the Government; a

71 a-and-an word clusters

word with several senses; a member of the press; a steep drop to the sea; a pretty state of affairs; a pile of earth covering potatoes; a taste of things to come; an army 10 thousand strong; a moderate amount of alcohol; a friend of the arts; a good head for figures; an uncanny resemblance to; a break for the commercial; a story out of a book; an account of what happened; a sense of wellbeing; a sharp difference between the two; a tie between the two teams; a study of the country’s problems; a car that handles well; an attractive colour scheme; a wide range of interests; a ready source of income; a man with a fierce aspect; an instance of his insolence; a work of art; a touch of garlic; a plan attended with problems; a hole in the pipe; a quarter-mile walk from here; a terrible thing to happen; a trade mission to China; a person of determined spirit; an army of tourists; a demand from the boss; a quiet cup of tea; a very independent person; a vet by profession; a run of bad luck; a good chance that he’ll win; a table of contents; a man who has known poverty; a suit of armour; an invitation to a party; a car designed for fast cornering; an arm of a chair; an application (form) for a job; an outdoor swimming pool; a victim of circumstances; a run-down area of the city; a coarse linen cloth; a light attack of flu; a shock of red hair.

Group 2 a lot of trouble for nothing; a shampoo and set; an authority on antiques; a broad range of subjects; a slip of a girl; a part in a play; a woman of broad views; a bit of a nuisance; an animal defending its territory; a blot on the landscape; a slip of paper; a stroke of genius; a world of make-believe; a feeling of space and light; a poem in a mournful key; an arm of the civil service; a large number of people; a colour that suits her; a stage in the development; a clever copy of the painting; a liberal interpretation of the law; a policy giving cover against fire; an opening in the hedge; a member of the club; a ready sale for high-quality furniture; a tool with many uses; a convict’s history of violence; a

72 a-and-an word clusters

book bound in leather; a report of the accident; a room designed for the children; a factory specializing in electronic products; a politician who works for peace; an offence to decency; a strong interest in local history; a brilliant show of flowers; a town cut off by floods; an argument over money; a plane carrying a hundred passengers; an operation to remove the appendix; a window display that attracts customers; a means of getting there; a hole one metre deep; a possibility of more violence; a turn for the better; a castle lit by coloured lights; a pretty large sum of money; a severe style of decoration; a leader of iron will; a good system of government; a copy of the document; a strange collection of people; a drop in the ocean; a split in the material; a point on the route; a cut of the profits; a career in medicine/journalism; an approach from a rival company; a spot on her chin; a career in politics; a ring round the moon; a full list of names; a high level of output; a train of thought; a break in diplomatic relations; an unlikely chance of success; a sense of responsibility; a problem exercising the mind; an accident with boiling water; a facility for learning languages; a material similar to velvet; a mark of good quality; a shot at goal; a shadow of doubt. a different dress every day; a champion of women’s rights; a drink with a rum base; a friend in name only; a fine growth of hair; a flashlight played over the wall; a very slow film; a huge jump in profits; a sleepy little town; a cool five million pounds!; a road lined with trees; a unit of length; a commanding position over the valley; a shoulder to cry on; a tower headed by a spire; a thousand thanks; a shady corner of the garden; a full account of the accident; an outbreak of violence; a sense of direction; a very human person; a means to an end; a wave of panic; an expert tennis player; a condition of the job; a drive to improve standards; an advance on his salary; a stay of execution; a link in the metal chain; a short length of time; a wide choice of confectionery; a train of disasters; a new system for teaching languages; a key to the symbols; a secret place in his heart; a waste of time and effort; an article in the newspaper; a meeting

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of the world’s states; a measure of his anger; a string of disasters; an angle of 30 degrees; a very bright child; a poor state of health; a file of armoured vehicles; a practical knowledge of French; an example of cave painting; a sudden notion to go; a break in the sea wall; a narrow circle of friends; a good ear for music; an unusual style of house; a clear account of the incident; a guest in the hotel; a film with lots of suspense. a job in the baking line; an assembly of bishops; a smell of musk/flowers; a slip of the tongue; a sky threatening rain; a sure cure for colds; a way of life; an exhibition of bad manners; a fair account of the events; a wall round the house; a shortage of housing; a wound to his pride; a break in the weather; a fault in the manuscript; a career in computers; an image in his mind; a storm is brewing; a wide variety of interests; a working model of the car; a division in the Cabinet; a sense of dread; a broad outline of a speech; a high rate of interest; an idea of interest to us; a break in the pipe; an index of character; a sign of things to come; a nasty incident involving a knife; a book of textile patterns; a ship riding the waves; a spot on her face; a world of troubles; a wall of fire; a tough way of life; a model of new airport; a solution of brine; a slice of the cake; a private view of the exhibition; a well-paid job; a shortage of food; an object of fun; a member of the public; a clean piece of paper; an indoor swimming pool; a variety of flowers were exhibited; a book giving information on schools; a cape over her shoulders; a spring in your step; a device on his shield; a reject from the factory; a clean break to the marriage; a sharp length of metal; a pump worked by hand; a good description of the thief; a large force of infantry; a tree five feet around; a pompous fool full of wind; a drop in moral standards; a river winding through the valley; a virtue beyond price; a mile out of Hull; a room of his own. a train of events; an elephant crashing through the trees; a credit to the town; a nose for a good story; a review of the whole situation; an eye for art; a late entry into the race; a spot of whisky; a free flow of water; a roll of the wheel; a great deal

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of support; a fair chance of success; a drop in the bucket; a flat that sleeps six; a shot from a gun; a waste of space; a modern version of Hamlet; a television special about the elections; a ten pence piece; a house owned by the brewery; a vehicle of some description; a walk in the country; a welcome visitor; a good judge of wine; an entry in his diary; a store carrying a brand; a paper on alternative medicine; a very professional worker; a good many of them; a force to be reckoned with; an untenable argument; an adult and three kids; a struggle just to survive; a fine example of Gothic architecture; a short stretch in prison; a dress that doesn’t wash well; a mixture of fear and sadness; a grade of A plus; a term of endearment; a necessary reduction in expenditure; a sense of proportion; an air of peace; a classroom full of barbarians; a run in her tights; a device for peeling apples; a project crowned with success; a brief of the proceedings; a cure for what ails you; an air of importance; a coarse cotton cloth; a waste of money; a fact not a rumour; a lift accommodating six bodies; a turn for the worse; a bridge between the two families; an underground car park; a soldier on guard; a company based in London; a fine taste in art; a statement of one’s views; a few things to buy; a figure approaching in the darkness; a career connected with the stage; an act of a play; a link in the chain; an officer in the navy; a formal declaration of war; a waste of his talent; a subject like physics; a lot of flu about; a movement towards better government.

Group 3 a pain in one’s side; a lead of ten metres; a constant stream of people; a team of horses; a tale of woe; a simple country girl; a person of good report; a stretch of water; a volume of water escaped; a lawyer speaking for the accused; a portrait drawn from life; a life full of variety; a sad state of affairs; an odd way of behaving; a girl with blue eyes; an unknown part of the country; a hole in the ground; a house facing the park; an eye for bargains;

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a secret drawer in the table; a design for the garden; a bitter pill to swallow; a life devoted to study; a block of theatre seats; a taste of garlic; a quarter of an hour; a woman of character; a sheet of ice; a severe test of their stamina; a light fall of snow; a thin layer of snow; a bad time to call; a ship stuck on a bar; a whole dinosaur skeleton; a place on the map; a team of surgeons; a different style of management; a tree that bears fruit regularly; an affair with a married man; an item in the local paper; a job in the banking line; a large fund of experience; a pie that serves eight people; a matter of great moment; a balance between work and play; a split in the rock; a letter to his mother; a high degree of accuracy; an order of the court; a cool attempt at murder; a thankless task; a syrup that sugars; a good thing to do; a very original piece of work; a few drops of vanilla essence; a system of government; a certain coldness in his attitude; a quick turn in the road; a fight outside the pub; a step in the right direction; a house with a northern aspect; a member of the team; a cold wind from the river; a shot at solving the problem; a property of large extent; an area 10 feet square; an act of kindness; a sense of loss; a ship with clean lines; a common style of writing; a boring job; a theory based on observation. a cut on his finger; an injection against measles; a couple of days ago; a man of many parts; a personal letter to her boss; a thing of the past; a policeman on his beat; a note in the margin; a report 20 pages long; a bit of a character; a sheet of paper; a special issue of stamps; a roof over your head; a low thing to do; an object of pity; a liberal supply of food; a good rule to go by; a joke in bad taste; a pretty turn of phrase; a stay of judgement; a wealth of talent; a body in the morgue; a wound to the heart; a five per cent wage increase; a woman of noble blood; a band playing in the square; a well-laid-out garden; a world of difference; a link between smoking and cancer; a good command of French; an unlikely candidate for the job; a new line in coats; a solid mass of rock; a variation on a theme; a woman of presence; an alley between two buildings; a sleepy little village; a

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member of the mathematical set; a suitable subject for hypnosis; a chance of winning millions; a possible site for a bridge; a waste of time; a critical point in history; a time of life; a block in the drain; an important feature of city life; an army of volunteers; a say in what happens; a person of ill repute; a perfect set of teeth; a show of resistance; a drop of 500 metres; a working knowledge of French; a woman wearing a blue suit; a grant for study abroad; a new edition of the book; a warm tone of voice; a model of a train; a mattress with little spring. an element of risk; a spot of tea; a large choice of restaurants; a show of courage; a lake 10 miles away; a log across the road; a fight with his brother; an ear for language; a large space between houses; an advantage over other candidates; a significant few words; a long stay in hospital; a run of a bad luck; a general feeling of ill-ease; a seedless type of orange; an interesting argument; a sense of perspective; a single parent family; a history of the twentieth century; a cloud on the horizon; a voice with an edge; a bend in the road; a bitter division between the families; a ring on each finger; a young man with drive; a terrier worrying a rat; a hall hung with tapestries; a strange thing happened; an extra strong box; a dramatization of the novel; a quick read of the book; a sense of purpose; a spot of lunch; a hurt on his leg; a great time on holiday; a slow part of the world; a case of mistaken identity; a taste for adventure; a wave of selling; an alternative means of transport; a day almost entirely without wind; a move to the city; a scheme for recycling paper; a new line of research; a variety of books; a writer of great depth; a big place in town; a long way from success; an audience with the pope; a breath of fresh air; a session of parliament; a severe shortage of food; a short piece of string; a conservative attitude to sth; a time when things were better; an eye for a bargain; a suit with a loose cut; a night (out) on the town; a bridge crossing the road; an address to the crowd; a young musician of promise; a great expanse of forest; a speech noted for its length; a sequence of events; a hill crowned with a wood; a fair copy of essay; an army 5000 strong;

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a loan from the bank; a lesson to us all; a sense of guilt; a stock of goods for sale; a large body of men; a sense of touch; a failure of the system; a good worker in many ways; a black spot on her reputation; a butterfly settling on the leaf; a person of small means; an audience with the Queen; a sacrificial victim for the gods; an important technological advance; a well of information; a fair chance of winning; a narrow space between the chairs; a spread of three decades; a shot in the arm.

***

78 Prepositionals

Chapter 9

Prepositionals In this chapter, you’re going to get another rich collection of specially-chosen word groups that I’ve called prepositionals. These are word groups that start with one of these commonly occurring prepositions in English: about, above, across, after, against, among, as, at, before, behind, below, beside, between, beyond, by, despite, during, following, for, from, in, inside, near, of, off, on, opposite, out of, outside, over, round, through, till, to, towards, under, until, up, with, within, without. These word groups are going to help you in two ways: First, they will add to the kind of word power you need in order to speak about a wide range of topics. Second, they will add to your knowledge of prepositions and your ability to use them with confidence. Remember this: One of the main reasons why many people find it difficult to speak or write good English is their poor command of prepositions. These words – prepositions – look simple and ordinary, but are difficult to get a fluent command of. So start doing oral practice with the word groups given below. Pick up each word group and say it ALOUD – several times. Here we go:

Group 1 for fun; to make them less worried; in one’s field of vision; about the cost of sth; without any restrictions; at the critical moment; as things stand; up the street; to make a judgement about them; in the quiet of the evening; of great importance; round his neck; by voting for them; with a fence; within view; as time went by; at once; among friends; from France; on Saturday afternoon; from the UK; to make a decoration; by moving their

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legs slightly; at nine p.m.; on foot; in American English; out of spite; in good shape; out of step with modern thinking; as (if) in a dream; as per usual; with a smile; out of control; to draw their attention to sth; to find out about it; on the whole; by moving other things around; at the bottom of page two; in full swing; on a daily basis; to prepare for an examination; in a state of readiness; to achieve a particular result; in the highest class/degrees; to kill the worms; to fully understand it; at the same time; on a different intellectual plane; by providing the necessary money; to add sth to it; in fairy stories; with her skirt hanging down; by lifting weights; in spite of her calm surface; at first light; at the age of sixteen; to rest and discuss sth; as much again; out of date; to run to another place; by touching it; by that thing; with a piece of soft material; as fit as a fiddle; after some debate with himself; in the wake of the election; through his efforts. in a dictionary; in one’s right mind; to obtain information; in a separate incident; within the speed limit; in prison; by the way; by saying sth funny about you; in an unfortunate financial position; on Thursdays; throughout Britain; by means of that fuel; opposite the station; by using your physical strength; on shore; by telex; at the given time; with other people watching them; in Switzerland; for some time; with all her faults; at the bottom of the garden; up the river; by mail; with a sound like a sigh; with one shake of the can; in the service of the king; without attempting to please them; up here; on Saturdays; against a scene of confusion; in a straight line; in return for; in aid of charity; to clean it; from the United Kingdom; to give sb a signal; with red eyes; at his house; by writing it down; without delay; for the sake of; out of work; at the top of the hill; at least three months; out of our way; by using skill; for want of time; on his return; to move somewhere; in settlement of debts; in great pain; until then; about twenty; at random; after I’d had a rest; in a/the previous paragraph; near here; for a long time; for a particular purpose; through the streets; by

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the close of business today; at the front of the train; with serious effects; against the rules; below him in rank; in advance; at the moment; with effect from tomorrow; in the West Indies; under construction; with your fist; to find work. at the head of the queue; to get secret information; for a long while; for a change; after everything she has done for you; without cheating; to be seen and admired; to give sb an unfair advantage; to claim money from them; to take responsibility for them; with a sure hand; to gain a bigger market share; at a fast pace; in the coming months; for various reasons; to make people laugh; in a friendly manner; till then; out of condition; in great difficulty; in practice; to help it to release gas; beyond retirement age; in the form of money; as time goes by; from Africa; at a fixed time; outside the bank; by straining it; to wash your body; with unpleasant consequences; with a crowd looking on; at the back; by physically threatening you; in his natural element; to show that they are annoyed; by resting as much as possible; to get sth done; from Monday to Friday; as soon as possible; after some difficulty; outside my areas of responsibility; to have more power; in the time of the dinosaurs; as little as possible; in the long run; on a part-time basis; as standard; from beginning to end; as far as possible; to find how many there are; in my capacity as manager; in order to; to move past them; within the reach of his influence; at the very end; to clear it; in next to no time; by threatening to punish them; by selling sth; with your hand held flat; on April the first; up to the present; from China; in the immediate future; to prevent the boat from moving; by the side of it; on a global scale; by putting them through letter boxes; to protest about sth; without touching it; by people; in his right mind; in the diet; as mealtimes; on the way; to shape it. to gain an advantage over them; by using a lot of effort; in the process of developing; for your own good; to look for a particular item; by responding to events; in the dark about his motives; at the close of trade/trading; by using your charm;

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with a mop; to arrest sb; by flushing the toilet; in a difficult corner; in his natural voice; to deserve punishment; to do sth for you; of little value; in the same fashion; beyond your power; on Tuesdays; with a sharp sound; by giving you good food; to look for sth; for three hours solid; with a layer of plaster; in love; at each commercial break; to indicate sth; on the dot; to ask formally for it; under water; at four o’clock; to support your argument; after his accomplice confessed; of general interest; through thick and thin; to achieve a favourable deal; on a certain date; of normal size; in the middle of the crowd; without thinking carefully; in time to do sth; at midnight; on telly; to get what they want; to give thanks; to shake hands with sb; out there; to concentrate on sth else; on top form; as quiet as a mouse; with a difficult situation; among other things; on the ground; in the United Kingdom; of Polish/good stock; after a bit; in good faith; in sight; without any real proof; in the natural course of events; to fasten it to the object; in the beginning; beyond your wildest dreams; in the open air; in the nude; on one’s own; for the first time ever; in difficulty; without hurrying; near the house; in fashion; in a tick; to cope with life in general; to draw people’s attention to it; as distinct from sth; at the edge of the sea; in the present climate; from top to bottom; as they say; on two separate occasions; behind enemy lines; on the financial front; following the scent.

Group 2 by pressing the object; in proportion; to remain fairly good at it; to show them the way; for the present; in every part of their life; by turning a handle; within reach of everyone’s pocket; in an accident; near 50%; for her private use; from out of town; of equal strength; to make it deeper; under the protection of the police; to protect it; at home with computers; by your own efforts; in a dead faint; to gain control of it; as day breaks; to wash yourself; of particular interest; as much as

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possible; at first; across the way; in a war; in the first place; as far as I know; at various times; by making a profit; in a straight course; from Italy; without friends; as well; to buy sth; in the opposite direction; by the side of the lake; in the eyes of the law; beyond the mountains; as white as snow; in a business deal; from Japan; with a sudden, bright light; with a quick, violent movement; to continue their journey; to get publicity for themselves; by now; with a file; in the face of these difficulties; by ordinary Englishmen; to achieve success in it; by radio; to the right; to do exactly as you wish; to travel somewhere; under the influence of alcohol; on alternate days; to gain some advantage for themselves; without fail; with a sudden, harsh noise; to continue your journey; beyond the call of duty; under my direction; without stopping; to have that quality; beyond our understanding; by phone; to get into a building; with your permission; in general use; in general; to give advice to a person; to be prepared for the examination. as far as practicable; from North America; for several years to come; with abstract theories; by making long, loud `o’ sounds; without a care in the world; in the region of 1000 people; to make all the decisions; in the flower of their youth; by making a pun; in France; of low intelligence; at eye-level; for a specific purpose; round here; with a quantity of things; to show your appreciation of them; in my youth; in the front; at the end of the war; by cutting and polishing your nails; at the latest; to meet people; at noon; in times of stress; without you noticing; through with the job; by putting a request to them; among the few; from Spain; by shaping it between your hands; over here; by the wind; on holiday with friends; at half-price; out of sight; from Europe; by post; to agree to it; on holiday; as it happens; in search of happiness; about ten o’clock; to make money; in the red; after hesitating; in the deep of the night; above the law; by speaking; in the shape of the devil; after what he said; by paying some money; by paying money for it; to achieve their aim; out of reach; for no understandable reason; of noble birth;

83 Prepositionals

for a while; by the look(s) of; by moving your hands around; with a loud noise; of their own free will; from England; to discover information about the past; in his field of vision; in no uncertain terms; with your hands. with a smooth, fairly fast movement; as long as supplies hold out; to give you professional advice; in one’s hour of need; to help them; by using ropes; by suddenly twisting his head; on a regular basis; by welcoming you; by regularly checking it; beside yourself with anger; without being invited to do so; in America; to damage their competitors financially; at this stage; under plain cover; during the day; at the foot of the stairs; to attack the place; in vain; by removing some of the letters; behind the scenes; in the society of her friends; at ten o’clock precisely; in the past; to escape arrest; by spending time with them; on tour; at the front in the battle; after a lot of thought; in a hurry; to make them agree with you; by telephoning them; to try and settle the dispute; towards the end; at home; during the week; as a last resort; on Wednesdays; for the time being; above criticism; by sb you are with; with a lot of publicity; in record time; in an informal situation; at the finish of the task; on the spot; against his express wishes; in a calm state; on the bus; at two o’clock exactly; as hard as rock; on that particular day; to a higher position; by mixing it; by rail; to use a different gear; on the left side; as good as gold; in technical English; in the time of Nehru; on sale; to get sexual pleasure; at irregular intervals; by spending less money; in your charge; at top; in competition with them; under the influence of liquor; by organizing a secret vote; to produce a particular effect; by means of a partition; within the space of three hours; to prevent it from being opened; in danger; by tipping it up. to make a noise; by wiping it; as cold as this; in good taste; on equal terms with another; by rubbing it; with a strap; to find and mark mistakes; by sniffing; under a tree; to avoid a bad one; for days together; in high spirits; round a corner; within the week; in full view of the crowd; on a golfing tour;

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in a fight; in time; over Christmas; in this particular case; by the nearest route; in pencil; in business; above suspicion; with heart pounding; to protect them; to pay their debts; to stop sth happening; with a sharp object; in the UK; at top speed; by moving upwards; to avoid fighting them; to attack them; to taste its full flavour; with a shovel; from the first; to feel it; in a competition; with a saw; in spite of difficult circumstances; by tricking sb; to give it extra importance; with a quick, sudden movement; in his role as headmaster; in the heat of the moment; as it stands; with a sharp, cracking noise; until now; at short leave; in pairs; in Europe; with a particular action; of Asian/ European origin; in payment of the account; round the corner; in times past; by plane; under the tree; in his own little world; of an even disposition; in strong light; in an indirect way; to make themselves sexually attractive; of less importance; in a low state of health; beyond the limit; over the top; for sale; in their own home; at the end of the street. to get information; at the start of her illness; to encourage them to do sth; to make a decision; to show politeness; with a furious face; to deal with it successfully; to make sb notice them; in this case; out of stock; by softening your skin; with one jump; from Pakistan; in the dark; with a lot of men; in public; in no time; for the first time; in my view; opposite the gate; in the morning; by winning it; on four successive occasions; by force; by throwing things into the air; to catch them; in considerable pain; as the saying goes; to improve it; to make people take notice; under the terms of the contract; in reverse gear; in front of; with an open mouth; by night; of vital importance; in my opinion; in a rush; to avoid paying for sth; to start doing sth; for enjoyment; to make people notice it; with a rope; in one leap; up a mountain road; to make it burn more strongly; in 10 seconds flat; by people in several different countries; from Iran; by their appearance and manner; on the left; to sell more of their products; in luck; after work; with a short, sudden movement; for pleasure; of no consequence; by

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making a slight movement; to store information on a computer; in force; at night; by the second number; behind the times; on the opposite bank; over the holidays; out of order; by airmail; in the middle of the night; to improve its flavour; in numeric characters; on top of; in reference to your letter; through a pipe; under these circumstances; during the holiday season; by twisting and turning your body; in small print; by repairing it when necessary; for security reasons; beyond repair; as usual.

Group 2 in its previous state; at war; from Switzerland; without looking back; against the wall; as instructed; by moving it backwards and forwards; at the far end; to make them realize sth; on Fridays; in time with the music; to say ‘no’; after this we’ll leave; on fire; over the past 30 years; in Chinese characters; by the surface; from start to finish; on the face of it; inside knowledge; for hours and hours; as the law stands; in Indian/Japanese waters; in cash; from time to time; with a problem; on account of; in the pouring rain; in a rather careless way; by shouting to them; beyond midnight; in the sure knowledge; with a knife; as part of sth; in a nervous state; on three separate occasions; by their feet; by using threats; as necessary; to ask for it; as long as; on the road to success; at the present time; in his capacity as president; without difficulty; in her/his youth; within call; from small beginnings; for a wider range of things; on schedule; on principle; in the region of 200 tonnes; to encourage sb; as far as I’m concerned; in this modern day; by that group; by all means; from Latin America; off his game; by the expression on your face; with a special machine; to come to an agreement; in return; in (the) olden days/times; throughout the year; in financial difficulties; in other words; with a hammer; with her dress in disarray; between the earth and the sky; by making great efforts; by means of; to prevent it being misunderstood; before entering university; with a wet sponge; in a vehicle; with

86 Prepositionals

a different thing; to watch and protect them; near to the park; at the head of the firm; for hours on end; by air; with a knot; at eight o’clock prompt; for a period of time; within the city walls; in the last paragraph. in former times; by law; in a (tight) corner; to keep it moving; to find some information; under his leadership; on the board of the firm; for the common good; by means of a latch; in sequence; before long; up there; by using similar methods; in the performance of his duty; to make a sound; by twisting it round and round; to get rid of the creases; to deceive people; off liquor; in there; with great care; as beautiful as ever; despite the fact that…; in a week’s time; by ship; to prevent it from decaying; by their side; from different stations in life; to uncover it; of his own accord; in the distance; by its (very) nature; without trying to avoid it; for no apparent reason; in addition to Peter; by making rude remarks; by not attending to it; with a shadow; opposite the building; on Mondays; on the wane; from the United States; from America; up a ladder; towards the front of the building; at seven (o’clock) sharp; as soon as practicable; inside out; to reach a decision; to get liquid out of it; in past years; in the back of the car; to find sth; as a rule; with a particular kind of ending; in broad daylight; by trying to be brave; about your problems; as green as grass; to try its flavour; in that case; at the close of the day; on several occasions; on board; as well as; as light as a feather; by taking the bones out; at the entry to the building; at the races; in the summer; in some ways; on a previous occasion; inside job; to enjoy it properly; in after years; in a flash; inside an hour; in the late afternoon. to benefit from it; in poor health; in the country; to get somewhere; out of breath; to stay in a good situation; in an exciting way; with a chemical; with a machine; to ask for his help; in Britain; in Germany; to borrow money from them; as expected; from Germany; of a different design; at that time in his life; to change their attitude to sth; on good terms; to

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achieve sth; by supporting and strengthening it; to steal your money; over the road; to accuse them of sth; with a pointed object; by chance; in two volumes; to make progress in the future; as such; above reproach; as late as the 1970’s; in need; to phone sb; in Australia; beyond the bounds of possibility; as simple as a child; with a lot of force; in your/my time; as promised; under twenty people; at the very beginning; by relying on your memory; to grow crops; as from tomorrow; in rather a spot; by other people; with a piece of cloth; to make it shine; under repair; to behave more calmly; as if by magic; as common as muck; at a slow pace; by losing their jobs; with a lot of noise; as tall as his father; without warning them; in the days of King James; in future; near tears; in Iraq; as time wore on; in person; from India; on the right; as if it wasn’t bad enough; beyond belief; by using dynamite; in a flat voice; for a short period; by using it; in the first instance; to feel better about things; to make other people laugh; to get it; with no regard for safety; off duty; at short notice; by mistake; by herself; by what you say; before giving it to sb. at the station; in good spirits; from a lowly situation in life; on tiptoe; at the close of day; after that, we left; as long as possible; at the head of the hill; on the run; with only one end in mind; in terms of economics; from Asia; beyond all doubt; in bold characters; in one of his moods; in an attempt to avoid danger; on a bed of gravel; from March to September; of a noble family; for hire; in a miserable condition; of unsound mind; by mixing other things together; of uncertain social status; after years of silence; after a lot of effort; without stopping to think; during the hours of darkness; in British English; by placing barriers in the way; by the time (that); under colour of friendship; in the end; in a remote corner of England; with a towel; at your place; by the lines on your hand; to clean their skin thoroughly; by giving you good entertainment; to kill it; by that name; under cover of darkness; to examine it scientifically; to see the image; by not having a regular job; on the third floor;

88 Prepositionals

to do what they say; outside the limit; of course; over my dead body; to let it happen; by their first names; to get professional advice; to avoid being seen; from foreign parts; with feet apart; to wish them success; in the middle of the road; with a circular movement; to express their ideas; from Israel; as normal; to explain it; in the wild; on holiday from tomorrow; to go in the right direction; to learn their skill; with a credit card; to have an effect; to reach the inside part; from one extreme to the other; within sight of the town; by no means; at rest; by magic; to give information as a witness; to get fit; from the US/USA; at a constant temperature; out of a job. with something such as a hammer; by using force; in England; after a little period; after eating; throughout existence; on the radio; to enjoy everything that they do; over there; in a critical condition; with an effort; without hope; by sewing stitches across the hole; as sharp as a razor; to make it easier to speak; on time; in late December; before eating; among the best in the world; without success; through traffic; in a bad mood; in every respect; to make a map of it; to amuse yourself; to stop it; during the course of the trial; at times; in a sexual way; at the same level; behind you all the way; in writing; before cooking it; at worst; on certain conditions; on a committee; in large quantities; in labour; with a number; to conduct an experiment; on the first of April; during the war; in the early morning; at all costs; in her element; to make sth happen; by pulling them gently; by standing in front of them; by moving its body; after very heavy rain; by telephone; in spoken English; by reading printed music; in top form; in good order; by a happy chance; by main force; at the most; with a cloth; by signing an official document; for instance; by the sound of it; on separate occasions; by wearing them; at midday; from Iraq; in the former USSR; in another country; on purpose; by putting pressure on you; behind bars; by reaching a particular standard; at the beginning of their life; up north; at the head of the page; with some difficulty; after an argument; to make yourself feel

89 Prepositionals

cooler; under pressure; within seven days; as it turned out; at the finish of the race; in the still of the night.

Group 3 to show them your affection; in their care; to steal sth; with care; by shooting them; as quickly as possible; with your elbow; over the hill; from force of habit; in a complicated, indirect way; in Canada; by using your hands; without questioning it; in Iran; in Spain; to find new feeding grounds; on television; through the agency of heat; to thank them; as good as this; as sweet as honey; from one end to another; by himself; by spending less than you get; in four minutes flat; of a different nature; within the space of a day; in spite of many difficulties; in front; with a strong, regular rhythm; for the good of mankind; by making the movements associated; after a struggle; in the old days; at the head of the stream; with an extra amount as interest; by sb with special equipment; by selling their property; from that day on; to take the course of action; at the front of the queue; by saying prayers; in recent years; in the face of danger; despite his old age; to get free; across the strings of the guitar; out of true; on fire with passion; at five o’clock or so; through a crack in the door; inside information; with their approval; after thinking carefully; at present; in the care of her uncle; to remain healthy; in constant motion; on the contrary; in an attempt to justify it; on Sundays; in writing; in time to music; by day; in case; under foreign rule; in danger of falling; in a tired and lifeless way; to make it look attractive; within easy reach of; in secret; to answer charges; by working for it; by accident; in formal English; to learn sth about them; in need of new ideas; under the influence of drugs; from all corners of the earth; in the future; by putting different parts together; by stating their name; in a sorry state; in peak season. below deck(s); in a sudden and unexpected way; with a smooth, curving movement; by myself; in the process of time;

90 Prepositionals

in mid May; to catch fish; with difficulty; to allow it to be done; out of season; up the coast; to get sth valuable from them; in spite of them; from London; to show disapproval; without much detail; to prepare them for an examination; with the exception of John; in here; for external use; to end it immediately; to prepare for a performance; as much as Rs. 10,000 etc.; in the course of an hour; in an institution for life; in command of a ship; on the electoral roll; as of now; through the night; on the shelf above; without planning it; by using a piece of wire; as expensive as this; under there; in a dark mood; from Australia; on the floor; by pushing the string through them; as sb goes along; at a constant speed; on April first; at two o’clock; by sticking out your tongue; in Roman times; without their permission; on (the) screen; to find sth out; with a special device; at two o’clock sharp; by that person; by that time; to put them back together again; near to panic; in a dishonest way; to achieve a particular aim; between them; in the light of this news; in all earnestness; for the popular market; inside the house; at the close of play; in a flat tone; as the situation arises; to see how they react; on my lap. in detail; from Russia; for more than their original value; as blind as a bat; to emphasize sth you are saying; by typing it on a keyboard; with folded arms; to thank them for their services; at the seaside; in good condition; to create a design; to make sth; to show them where to go; at odd moments; at full speed; for good; to deal with sth effectively; to attract people’s attention; from Canada; to say sth; against a background; at the head of the table; in fact; within the walls of the city; to extract the juice; from Great Britain; about things that are not important; over the odds; to the fullest extent; in Italy; at this point in time; with a long handle; for details; as a matter of fact; to expensive restaurants; to get some information from them; on behalf of sb; with a sticky substance; in modern times; to be able to frame it; by the side of the road; beyond the grave; with a key; till now; to make them laugh; in the US/USA; to make you

91 Prepositionals

do sth; beyond dispute; in a spiral movement; on the second floor; at a shallow point; to escape from sb; out of curiosity; to reach that place; as he was working late; to make its surface shine; of poor quality; with a wave of his hand; behind the bar; to prevent things from getting worse; within limits; in Great Britain; across the street; by particular standards; to a very large degree; at the top of the page; by saying something they don’t like; to help them to grow; at the start of the campaign.

***

92 Frequent action-clusters

Chapter 10

Frequent action-clusters You’re now going to get a valuable collection of word groups that are important for achieving fluency – fluency in speaking about a wide range of topics. They’re all action clusters – word groups in which the key word is a verb. As you must know by now, from the fluency-development point of view, action clusters are the most important types of word groups. Go through the word groups given below. Pick up each word group and say it ALOUD – several times. Here we go:

Group 1 support yourself; twist sb’s words; overreach yourself; come back to haunt sb; come down in the world; serve as a brake on sth; rise from a table; lie back and relax; undersell yourself; lose your nerve; start raining; familiarize yourself with sth; fan the flames of sth; manoeuvre (sth) into position; join the ranks (of sth); serve as a warning; consolidate sb’s position; sort yourself out; switch the heating on; nod towards/in the direction of sb/sth; throw caution to the wind(s); become known as sth; fill the void; pay little/no attention to sth; draw (sb’s) attention to sth; reduce sth to rubble; come racing; sharply separated; stop the rot; succeed in winning sth; brace yourself for sth; can sb possibly do sth?; draw inspiration from sth; pace the room; forget yourself; lower the age of sth; swear (your) allegiance to sb; ease yourself; manoeuvre your way; sigh with satisfaction; surrender yourself; raise the tone (of sth); fasten your arms around sb/sth; kiss sb full on the mouth; stand with your back to sb/sth; lend (your) support; have a run of bad luck; escape unscathed; come in sight of sb/sth; maintain the status quo; mark the end of sth; read (sth)

93 Frequent action-clusters

aloud/out loud; crack under the pressure; forgive yourself; fight back (the) tears; need a push (to do sth); begin doing sth; appear before sb/sth; smell like rotten eggs; see the funny side (of sth); return sb to office; twist your lips into a sneer; can hardly bear to do sth; grow in number. score points with sb; cry tears of rage; climb to the top; view sth with suspicion; lose your train of thought; vary in size/ length; throw sb into prison; come as a surprise; eat well; linger (on) in the mind; expect a lot of sb; exert pressure on sb (to do sth); mark sb (as) present; rise and shine; slur your words; stand the pressure; break down and weep; try sth for size; reduce the risk of sth; come into vogue; treat sb with respect; come to your senses; pour your heart out; grasp sb by the shoulders; weaken sb’s resolve; screw sth in place; stay seated; place limits on sth; hiss (sth) through your teeth; beat the rush; handle sth well; twist sth out of shape; grow tired of doing sth; tear sth open; search far and wide; slow to a stop; ask for sb’s hand in marriage; perpetuate a myth; use sth as a reason; linger (on) in the memory; show (no) pity; land sb in hot water; open its/your doors to sb; sleep well/soundly; compare unfavourably; lose all contact with sb; act the part/role (of sb/sth); invade sb’s privacy; turn down an offer; come face to face with sb/sth; shove your way sw; come out of retirement; tell (sb) the truth; comply with standards; pool your resources; reduce sb to tears; vary over/ with time; hear rumours; embark on a project; impose yourself; defeat at the hands of sb; stand the strain; pause to reflect; press sth open/shut; export sth to/from Europe; smile to yourself; create the illusion of sth; improve spirits; stretch as far as the eye can see; pronounce sb man and wife; lay your hands on sth; deny the existence of sth; weigh on sb’s mind; satisfy the demand for sth; try hard to do sth; shout and scream. lose patience with sb/sth; read and write; come to a standstill; bear the signs of sth; stand out in your mind; divide in two; see sth as a sign; tilt the balance towards/in favour of sb; come (right)

94 Frequent action-clusters

out and say sth; yield to (the) temptation; place your head in a noose; scare the living daylights out of sb; have a run of good luck; bundle sb into/out of sth; reduce sth in number; bluff your way into/out of the place; focus efforts on sth; come as a relief; see the logic of/in sth; shatter sb’s peace; stun sb into silence; enter into a transaction; ignore sth at your peril; withdraw into a world of your own; blow the whistle (on sb); pursue the matter; measure sth in terms of sth; catch the post; grow used to sth; come onto the market; place sth in trust; suffer in silence; grope your way; fasten your eyes on sb/sth; send shivers along/down your spine; taste sweet; need the services of sb; chop sth to pieces; limit yourself; mutter to yourself; sink without trace; can’t help noticing sth; sweat and toil; fight against terrorism; calm sb’s nerves; strands of opinion; blow your brains out; cry (sth) in surprise/delight; treat yourself to sth; wedge sth in place; report sb/sth missing; follow sb’s/sth’s every move; tell tales; stick up for yourself; discount the possibility; play with/without (the) music; puff at a pipe; grow very tall. stir in your sleep; say who did sth; lay the blame on sb; lean in the direction of sth; bow your head in shame; place sb under an obligation; place sb/sth under sth; sit staring; leave sb in suspense; wish sb a speedy recovery; exist on a different plane; speak badly/ill of sb; puff and pant; place reliance on sb/sth; strike at the heart of sth; bind and gag sb; pray for mercy; cover the cost of sth; brace yourself/sth against sth; move sb to tears; gesture towards sb/sth; ignore sb’s plea; zip sth open/shut; slow your pace; live to regret sth; preserve sth for posterity; resume your position; hit the target; indulge yourself (in sth); push and shove; extricate sb/yourself (from sth); navigate your way; change the subject; experience the full force of sth; strip (sb) naked; outlive its usefulness; change your mind about sth; install yourself; try desperately to do sth; ignore a sign; sit up straight; leave sth open; halt sth in its tracks; suspect sb of plotting sth; speak highly of sb/sth; run the length of sth; spare sb the pain/ trouble; sink money into sth; disappear without trace; lead sb to

95 Frequent action-clusters

believe sth; bear the brunt of sth; place emphasis on sth; pledge sb/yourself to do sth; see reason; snap (sth) open/shut; judge it right; classify sb/sth according to sth; stand in awe of sb; can scarcely believe sth; promote sb (to Manager/Colonel, etc.); prove sb wrong; place sb on probation; describe sth in glowing terms; sit side by side; reach the screen; stop singing; heal the rift; labour the point; stick to the rules; live in a fantasy world; stand staring; fix your sights on sth; turn the heating on; beg sb (not) to do sth; lie sprawled; close to tears; shut the door on sth; drop like a stone; smell like fresh soil; leave sb paralysed; stand and stare; place sb/sth on standby; run your eye down a page; win the toss; can’t take a punch.

Group 2 spend the night; break into pieces; provide input into/to sth; come out on strike; disappear from sight; escape uninjured; wriggle your way; manage on your own; come second/third (in sth); strain to hear sth; past your prime; overstep the bounds/ limits of sth; lower the tone (of sth); use sth as an excuse; lie still; shoot to stardom; throw your weight behind sth; seem happy/relaxed to sb; weaken sb’s spirit; act out of love; stray from the straight and narrow; strike at the root(s) of sth; sit at a table/desk; pause to think; tell the time; packed in salt; can’t take your eyes off sb/sth; stare into space; run your finger down a page; strengthen sb’s resolve; come out in favour of/against (doing) sth; stamp your personality on sth; can’t stand sb doing sth; sling your bag over your shoulder; grow unchecked; divide along religious lines; commit (a) murder; recover your memory; fling your arms around/round sb/sth; exaggerate the importance of sth; come off well/badly; could hardly believe sth; swear vengeance against/on sb; establish yourself/sb (as sth); fly past; come into operation; turn out OK; use sth to (a/some) purpose; can’t bear the thought/idea of sth; love nothing better than…; owe a debt of gratitude to sb; lay (sb) the odds of sth; gain in

96 Frequent action-clusters

popularity; stop pretending; view sth with scepticism; hide sth from view; respond to treatment; treat sth with scepticism; hear the news; state the obvious; bore sb to tears. stand up for your rights; counter the effect(s) of sth; slam the door shut; begin screaming; lose your looks; sink like a stone; prepare (yourself) for sth; try and try; clench sth between sb’s teeth; turn sb loose; see less/a lot of sb; deem sth necessary; review sth in the light of sth; tap sb on the shoulder; use the stairs; face the sack; frustrate sb’s plans; detain sb without trial; perform satisfactorily; start talking; hum to yourself; shut sth tight; wake (up) to find sth; cough and splutter; focus entirely on sth; relinquish your hold on sth; come nearer; ignore sb’s protests; live in sb’s memory; profit after/before tax; owe much/a lot to sb/sth; question the logic of sth; live in the shadow of sb/sth; come close to scoring; raise the age of sth; jump the queue; lower your voice; resume your place; draw the line at sth; judge for yourself; couldn’t help noticing sth; clamp shut; see the sights; tear your gaze away from sb/sth; see what sb means; run riot; mix and match; seek the aid of sb; can’t seem to do sth; knock sb unconscious; judge sth on its merits; pay the going rate; fight the urge/impulse; flush sth down the toilet; kick and punch; speak with a stutter; disgrace yourself; hug sb tight; stay in close touch; escape unhurt; can’t bear the sight of sth; register to vote; divert attention from sth; stay tuned (to sth). lie curled up; come straight to the point; fasten your attention on sb/sth; thrust your way sw; scare the life out of sb; fix sth in place/position; ease the tension; hang yourself; run counter to sth; play the role of sb; act as a reminder; kick sth shut; hire yourself out; seize the moment; ignore sb’s remark; translate sth into practice; leave sb scarred; relax and enjoy sth/ yourself; arouse sb’s suspicions; preach the virtues of sth; divide along party lines; break ranks; impose your personality on sth; jockey for position; stop in your tracks; lose your sanity; blink away a tear; hide sth from sight; sit back and relax; come to

97 Frequent action-clusters

an understanding; close the door behind you; arrange sth in alphabetical order; tighten the noose; press yourself against sth; weather the storm; increase the risk of sth; place importance on sth; weep and wail; weaken sb’s resistance; fracture your skull; come as far as sth; deny killing/murdering sb; distract attention from sth; sap sb’s will; come to rest; spell the death of sth; ache all over; swear sb to silence; kick sth open; tighten the purse strings; creak open; strike at the foundations of sth; scare the pants off sb; grow in popularity; owe a duty to sb; mark the start of sth; leave sb a note; vary according to sth; expect too much of sb; tear sth into/to pieces; bring sb/sth into line with sb/sth; stroll to victory; pick up a station; come off worst; speak with one voice; want things both ways; risk losing sth; couldn’t help overhearing sth; say no (to sb/sth); serve to illustrate sth; disaster strikes (sb/ sth); hang your head in shame; speak well/highly of sb; knock sb senseless/unconscious; broadcast (sth) live; lose touch with reality; perform well/poorly. undergo surgery/treatment; grow to a length of…; wash your hands of the matter; tear your eyes away from sb/sth; stiffen sb’s resistance; retrace your steps; bring the conversation round to sth; play opposite sb; question the merit of sth; shout at the top of your voice; modify your stance; slot a CD into a CD player; attach importance to sth; judge sb/sth on their own merits; climb the stairs; fasten your legs around sb/sth; write to say/express sth; run your hand(s) over sth; call the police; turn your mind to sth; come to grips with sth; tremble all over; tilt sth to one side; leave room for sth; heat sth to boiling point; withdraw into your shell; release sb on parole; divide sth into portions; hand over the reins; stand up straight; come clean about sth; tremble from head to toe; try anything once; sleep like a log; come out (all) wrong; fly into a rage; strike terror into (the heart of) sb; slit sth open; send sb sprawling; toe the party line; needs painting; come under pressure to do sth; lie on your stomach; talk sense into sb; diversity of styles; proclaim the virtues of sth; split sth two, etc. ways; come off the pill; reduce sth in size; loosen the purse

98 Frequent action-clusters

strings; meet sb off the train; serve to emphasize sth; sing sb’s praises; place value on sth; read the signals; mark the beginning of sth; bore sb rigid/stiff; clamp sth between your teeth; grow to maturity; meet (with) resistance; point the way; defeat the purpose of sth; meet with standards. treat sb like royalty; qualify on the grounds of sth; watch (the) telly; cook (me, etc.) a meal; submit yourself to sth; start the year; ease your way; grow in stature; wave a magic wand; prove sb right; pick up where you left off; sing with/without (the) music; stop talking; help or hinder sth; find sb wandering; buy sth (by) mail order; stir well/thoroughly; control the purse strings; change the complexion of sth; battle it out (against sth); serve as a reminder; flicker open; patch it/things up (with sb); focus exclusively on sth; focus energy on sth; hit the screen; place the blame on sb/sth; freeze in your tracks; teach sb a thing or two; inject yourself with sth; sit sprawled sw; withdraw your resignation; nudge sb in the ribs; find out the nature/extent of sth; come tripping; sit up with a start; heap abuse on sb/sth; lead the way; salvage your pride; strain yourself; open the doors to sb; highlight sb’s plight; try and do sth; haul yourself up onto/ into sth; enlist the aid of sb; stress the importance of sth; travel by train; return to haunt sb; change your stance; burst into tears; address yourself to sth; bring sb/sth into contact with sb/sth; stop raining; pile on the pressure; address a question; escape unharmed; bang (sth) open/shut; beat sb on points; prepare (yourself) to do sth; flick sth open.

Group 2 throw sth into turmoil; scream your head off; stick it out; disclaim all knowledge of; can’t wait to see the back of sth; can hardly do sth; rush to the rescue; close sth tight; resist (the) temptation; turn to page 40 etc.; sidestep a question; increase the size of sth; plead for mercy; alter your stance; qualify for a pension; issue notice to quit; vote in favour of sth; drill for oil; slur your

99 Frequent action-clusters

speech; kiss sb full on the lips; hurt yourself doing sth; slot sth into place; open sth to scrutiny; disturb sb’s peace; injure sb’s pride; can’t get your head round sth; sell sth for scrap; split the vote; act as a brake on sth; place sb/sth under strain; come as no surprise; learn to live with sth; flaunt yourself; owe it to sb to do sth; fold sth neatly; blush scarlet; work in collaboration with sb; classify sth into types; raise the stakes; shoulder your way past/ through sb/sth; score points off sb; rally to sb’s support; turn out your pockets; come up for renewal; bear the stamp of sb/sth; bear some relation to sth; hide the truth; run out of patience; come into the world; establish law and order; plead guilty to sth; appeal to (your) better nature; need renewing; greet sb by name; pay the penalty (for sth); plunge to a new low; sort sth into piles; slow to a snail’s pace; meet the full force of sth; strike sth from the record; wound sb’s pride; find yourself shaking; prove the sceptics right; find yourself confronted by sth; reduce sth to a minimum; prospects of recovery; remain seated; remain steadfast (in sth); place your faith/hope on sb/sth; assert yourself; greet sb with a smile; run on time; fumble for words; could scarcely believe sth; call me old-fashioned; deprive sb of the pleasures of doing sth; reduce the size of sth; see anything suspicious; live well/comfortably; tilt your chair back; whisper sweet nothings; pay dearly for sth. concentrate your efforts on sth; pause for thought; ring in sick; can take a punch; lower your sights; lack the confidence to do sth; remove restrictions (on sth); lie motionless; pick and mix; provoke sb into doing sth; strain to see sth; rebuild sth from scratch; hurl accusations at sb; see more of sb; tear loose; run for office; can’t stand the sight of sb/sth; behave in a sensible way; weigh heavily with sb; come into sight; fasten your gaze on sb/sth; play havoc with sth; describe sth in abstract terms; can’t stand doing sth; turn and see; join together to do sth; stop shouting; prove the sceptics wrong; catch the gist of sth; stick rigidly/resolutely to sth; sell sth at a profit/loss; reduce the effect(s) of sth; sit slumped sw; tear sth to shreds; plead

100 Frequent action-clusters

tiredness; love nothing more than…; come to prominence; jump out of your skin; grow in size; choose anything within reason; occupy yourself (with sth); lie in store; found guilty of murdering sb; place strain/pressure on sb/sth; dispense with sb’s services; approach sth from first principles; branch out on your own; rank sth in order of sth; guess right; reach the top; battle your way sw; work sb/yourself (up) into a panic; stand in a queue; stop sb/sth in their/its tracks; kiss goodbye to sth; introduce yourself; halt sb in their tracks; rise to stardom; can’t keep your eyes off sb/sth; behave in an alarming way; disguise yourself as/in sth; obtain sb’s permission; relive your youth. brake to avoid sth; point straight at sb/sth; open the scoring; come to the rescue; come by train/plane; (a car etc.) runs on petrol; watch sb’s/sth’s every move; come to a stop; start screaming; pass unnoticed; function on a different plane; appear to have done sth; act on sb’s suggestion; dampen sb’s spirits; quicken your pace; shiver with surprise; strengthen sb’s position; rush to sb’s rescue; screw sth into position; corner the market (in sth); allow sth to stand for sth; strip to the waist; picture sb/yourself doing sth; suck your thumb; scare sb silly/stiff; vote no/yes; sit bolt upright; tell sb straight (out); deprive sb of the satisfaction of doing sth; start shouting; act out of necessity; squeeze the trigger; see sb across the road; taste wonderful; sit curled up; can’t see a thing; send sth soaring; grasp sb by the wrist; arrange sth in chronological order; leave your options open; cost sth per person; rule supreme; stall for time; nod in sympathy; drive sb mad; vanish from sight; puff on a pipe; curl your lips into a sneer; come complete with sth; stem the tide/flood (of sth); serve sb well; shoot sb at close range; wade waist-deep; withdraw sth from sale. change your ways; decide the winner; swerve to avoid sb/ sth; strike out on your own; pause to look; seize hold of sb/sth; snap (sth) together; sound offended; count for sth/nothing; play the part of sb; fasten your mind on sb/sth; come and join sb; stand

101 Frequent action-clusters

the test of time; depend entirely/solely on sth; mark the spot; place restrictions (on sth); wear yourself out; save yourself the trouble; master the art of (doing) sth; campaign to do sth; follow the signs; halt in your tracks; owe it to yourself to do sth; fly into a passion; stick close to sb; curse your luck; marry young; sound the death knell of/for sth; speed things up; fly into a temper; burst into song; tear sth into strips; scream and shout (at sb/sth); turn your fury on sb; poll 30%/50 % of the vote; meet the needs of sth/sb; fail in your obligation; cause for optimism; follow sb’s suggestion; swell the ranks; find out the cause of sth; close to the skull; come under scrutiny/suspicion; amuse yourself; leave the stage; shrug your shoulders; write sb a note; capture sth on video; work wonders (for sb/sth); sit on a stool; wish sb (every) success; print in black and white; vary depending on sth; fare well; slow to a walk; seem to have done sth; sit and watch; cast caution to the wind/winds; cry out in pain; admit murdering sb; worry yourself about sth; draw near. come as a reminder; lead the world (in sth); strike sb as odd; preach the values of sth; bore sb silly; come to power; come to nothing; shield sth from view; bring sth a step nearer (to sth); play (a game of) cat and mouse; rule in favour of sb; shake sth to its foundations; sob your heart out; bundle sb through sth; enter into partnership (with sb); leave sb vulnerable; evade prosecution; hope of doing sth; gesture in the direction of sb/ sth; live in terror of sb/sth; cut sth to shreds; owe a great deal to sb/sth; mourn the loss of sb; shatter (sth) into pieces; toss and turn; follow sb’s progress; sleep rough; break the news; shrink in size; wake up with a start; spoil sb rotten; play cat and mouse (with sb); hit the trail; handle sb roughly; use the telephone; sag in the middle; hunch your shoulders; slide open; experience a renaissance; remain true (to sb/sth); name your price; gain in stature; couldn’t agree more; run short of space; lose the use of sth; focus solely on sth; volunteer your services (as sth); come under pressure; attach significance to sth; dig your elbow into sb’s ribs; can’t hide sth; tie for first/second, etc. place; tell its

102 Frequent action-clusters

own story/tale; surround yourself with sth; describe sth in blunt terms; try sth new (with sth); study to be/become sth; press on regardless; question the wisdom of sth; brake to a stop; resume negotiations.

Group 3 break into a trot; see yourself; appear on television; come as high/low as sth; choose to ignore sth; bring out the beast in sb; inspect sth thoroughly; live by doing sth; shoot (sb) on sight; march in step; come to pieces; devote yourself to sth; fight against unemployment; return to normal; miss the post; pick up the telephone; hack sth to pieces; cut and paste; gear yourself up; jerk sth open; admit killing sb; haul yourself out of sth; steal the show; shower gifts on sb; maintain the momentum; ignore sb’s warning; sit in judgment on/over sb; buy and sell (sth); bring your influence to bear on sb/sth; come under threat; overstep the rules of sth; draw to a stop; force your way through/into sth; blink back tears; live on borrowed time; wedge sth in position; rush headlong into sth; bow to pressure; resist the temptation to do sth; say your prayers; throw sth open; sit next to sb; needs washing; press your nose against sth; search high and low; fool yourself; grow accustomed to sth; scramble to safety; withdraw sth from the market; print in bold type; bring sth to sb’s notice; wish sb a long and happy retirement; proceed on the basis of sth; swing open/shut; change the sheets; overstretch yourself; grow at a fast/record, etc. rate; sacrifice sth for the sake of sth; split (sth) across/down the middle; steer sb to victory; pause only (long enough) to do sth; see sth performed. work yourself up into a passion; bore sb out of their (tiny) mind; lie on your side; smash sth to pieces; regain control of sth; serve to strengthen sth; find sth unacceptable; seem genuine to sb; swear sb to secrecy; try your utmost; bear a close relation to sth; come equipped with sth; describe sth in general terms; turn the heat up/down; place first/third, etc. in a race; come

103 Frequent action-clusters

and do sth; could sb possibly do sth?; rally support (for sth); restore (your) spirits; apply (your) mind to sth; finish second; place (your) trust in sb/sth; smell like a pub; see the point; catch the full force of sth; can’t afford to do sth; swing the other way; come striding; hurl abuse at sb; shoot sb in the stomach; forget all about sth; telephone sb on a number; grow to a size larger than…; turn the heat on/off; rule out a possibility; run parallel to sth; say yes (to sb/sth); split in a party; stretch yourself out; rip sth to shreds; regard sb/sth with suspicion; succeed in securing sth; remove sth at a stroke; brace yourself to do sth; end up doing sth; fare worse; appreciate the significance of sth; divide along ethnic lines; behave yourself; emphasize the importance of sth; meet sb off the plane; grow to a height of…; reason for optimism; fetch the asking price; bare your teeth; trace your origins; come as a shock; draw to a standstill; surprise yourself; scrape out a living; trouble yourself; poison sb’s mind; cost sth per minute; hail a taxi; install sb in office; place sb/sth under pressure; grasp the significance of sth; say sorry (to sb for sth); sigh with regret; stand in line; tear sth in two; force sth open; focus particularly on sth; burrow your way; needs reassuring; hug and kiss sb; place temptation in sb’s way; slit sb’s throat; lose your place; place burden on sb/sth. run the risk of doing sth; recapture your youth; find work; split (sth) open; concentrate your attention on sth; share your experiences of sth; judge it necessary; cut sth into strips; crack under the strain; lie through your teeth; finish in a tie; stop the night; conform to standards; cause sb/sth trouble; act on sb’s orders; quote sb as saying sth; come down in favour of sb/sth; appreciate sb/sth at their real worth; swallow sth whole; wait and see; search and rescue; define parameters (for sth); mix business with pleasure; wage war (on sth); exaggerate the significance of sth; cruise to victory; boil with rage; treat sth with suspicion; rise to the top; grasp the meaning of sth; slam (sth) shut; kiss and make up; trample sb/sth underfoot; stand up for yourself; run low (on sth); appreciate sb/sth at their true worth; describe sth in

104 Frequent action-clusters

clear terms; pin sth in place; rip sth open; stop screaming; rouse yourself; appear in front of sb/sth; milk sth for all it is worth; can’t bear doing sth/to do sth; beg for mercy; pay the price (for sth); evade a question; break the spell; force yourself to do sth; come into view; run according to plan; weaken sb’s morale; help yourself to sth; can hardly believe sth; strike fear into (the heart of ) sb; travel the world; accuse sb of plotting sth; vow never to do sth; lie slumped sw; jog on the spot; cease trading; burn a hole in sth; hurl insults at sb; scratch out a living; pray to God to do sth; operate on a different plane; stick your head in a noose; vent your spleen (on sb); shut the door behind you; miss the point; recover from (the) recession; preach the evils of sth; learn sth by rote; stiffen sb’s resolve; lose your way. That’s it. Bye for now.

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