Phrases & Expressions

To make many people disagree strongly and argue publicly about something.

• Plans to charge visitors a fee to enter the historic city centre have caused controversy among local businesses.
• The film caused considerable controversy when it was released because of its violent scenes.

To create problems that stop something, such as transport or a service, from running normally.

• A computer failure at the airport caused disruption to hundreds of flights, leaving passengers stranded for hours.
• The one-day strike by train drivers caused disruption for thousands of commuters trying to get to work.

To produce unpleasant extra results in the body, besides the one a medicine is meant to have.

• Some antidepressants can cause side effects such as weight gain and difficulty sleeping.
• The new vaccine was approved after large trials showed that it caused very few side effects.

To pay for something by asking for the cost to be added to your credit card account.

• Would you like me to charge the room to your credit card, sir?
• Any extra services, such as room service, will be charged to your credit card when you check out.

To meet, experience or start dealing with a person, group or thing.

• When two cultures come into contact with each other, they usually exchange words, foods and customs.
• Children who come into contact with different languages at an early age often find it easier to learn new ones.

To begin growing again once an economic downturn has ended.

• Shops are hiring again now that the country has finally come out of recession.
• Experts disagree about when the economy will come out of recession and start creating jobs again.

A story so interesting that you want to keep reading or listening until the end.

• The book tells a compelling story of two brothers who emigrate to Canada in search of work.
• Good journalists know how to turn dry statistics into a compelling story that readers will remember.

To tell someone that you admire something they have done or something about them.

• The examiner complimented her on her wide range of vocabulary and natural pronunciation.
• Several guests complimented the chef on the dessert, which was made with local fruit.

To accept less than you want on a particular point in order to reach agreement.

• The university refused to compromise on academic standards, even though it needed more international students.
• When you share a flat, you have to compromise on things like noise, cleaning and guests.

To ask someone a set of questions officially, for example for a job or a research study.

• The researchers conducted interviews with over 300 teachers to find out why so many leave the profession.
• Two senior managers will conduct the interviews, which usually last around forty-five minutes.