Phrases & Expressions

The ratio between a distance on a map or chart and the corresponding distance on the ground.

• The chart scale shows one inch represents one mile.
• Check the chart scale before measuring.

To go to another country to study.

• She is planning to study abroad next year.
• Many students save money for years so they can study abroad.

The branch of engineering that deals with the design, building and testing of aircraft and spacecraft.

• She is studying aerospace engineering.
• The company hires many aerospace engineering graduates.

To support a child's intellectual, emotional, social and physical development, not only academic learning.

• Our goal is to educate the whole child, not just to prepare pupils for tests.
• This program helps teachers educate the whole child through art and sport.

In a period of history very long ago.

• In ancient times, people walked everywhere.
• In ancient times, sailors used the stars to find their way.

To argue against an idea or opinion, not because you disagree with it, but to help explore it further.

• I'll play the devil's advocate to challenge your idea.
• She likes to play the devil's advocate in meetings.

To show that something is true or correct.

• The results bear out our theory.
• Witnesses bore out his story.

Used to state the most important or basic part of a situation.

• In essence, we agree.
• In essence, the plan is simple.

A study of underground rock layers made by sending sound waves into the earth.

• They conducted a seismic survey for oil.
• The seismic survey revealed potential gas deposits.

To argue against an idea or plan, even if you agree with it, to encourage discussion.

• Let me play devil's advocate.
• He's just playing devil's advocate.