Phrases & Expressions

A situation where only the person or team who wins receives all the rewards or prize money.

• In this tournament, it's winner takes all.
• The final match was a winner takes all contest.

To get rid of something completely, or to abolish a system or rule.

• The school decided to do away with uniforms next year.
• They did away with the tax.

To negotiate forcefully so that the agreement reached favors you.

• I wanted to pay less for the car, but the salesman drove a hard bargain.
• Eric drove a hard bargain and got the company to raise their salary offer by $15,000.

At the right time, usually after some time has passed.

• You'll be informed in due course.
• In due course, the truth will come out.

If a particular thing happens, especially something unexpected or serious.

• In the event of an emergency, call 112.
• In the event of cancellation, we will refund your money.

A mandatory process for businesses to verify the identity of their clients and assess potential risks.

• The bank's know your customer policy is strict.
• Know your customer checks are vital for fraud prevention.

To act in a very firm and uncompromising way, especially in negotiations.

• The company is playing hardball in the pay negotiations.
• He decided to play hardball.

A formal request asking someone to give information, guidance, or their opinion about a situation.

• Please advise on the best course of action.
• Please advise if you can attend.

A radio phrase meaning that a pilot cannot carry out an instruction or clearance.

• I am unable to comply with that request at this time.
• The pilot replied "unable to comply" because the aircraft could not climb that fast.

A formal closing phrase used at the end of a letter when you do not know the name of the person you are writing to.

• Yours faithfully, Mr. Smith.
• Yours faithfully, a concerned citizen.