Phrases & Expressions

To officially end the system in which people are owned by others and forced to work.

• Britain abolished slavery in most of its colonies in 1833, but forced labour continued in other forms.
• Campaigners who fought to abolish slavery used newspapers, public meetings and petitions to change public opinion.

To make an economy, company or industry grow more quickly.

• Central banks often cut interest rates in an attempt to accelerate growth during an economic slowdown.
• Better transport links could help to accelerate growth in poorer rural regions while also creating local jobs.

To tell the sender officially that a letter, payment or document has arrived.

• Most online shops send an automatic email to acknowledge receipt of your order within minutes.
• The university will acknowledge receipt of your application within five working days.

To show clearly in your writing which books, articles or other works you took ideas from.

• Failing to acknowledge your sources properly can lead to a charge of plagiarism, even if the copying was accidental.
• If you quote statistics in your report, make sure you acknowledge your sources so readers can check them.

To publicly support or recommend using something.

• Many teachers advocate the use of mobile phones in class as learning tools, while others want them banned.
• The report advocates the use of renewable energy in all new public buildings.

An economy that is struggling, with little growth, falling output or high unemployment.

• The new government has promised to revive the ailing economy by investing in green energy and infrastructure.
• Tourism is seen as one way to support the country's ailing economy after years of low growth.

To express your opinions publicly so that other people can hear them.

• Local residents were invited to a public meeting to air their views on the proposed airport expansion.
• Social media gives ordinary people a chance to air their views on issues that affect their daily lives.

To decide officially how much money a project, department or service will receive.

• The city council has allocated funds to build three new libraries in the poorest districts.
• Critics argue that the ministry should allocate more funds to mental health services instead of building new motorways.

So quiet that it can hardly be heard.

• The student spoke so softly during her presentation that her voice was almost inaudible at the back.
• Electric cars are almost inaudible at low speeds, so in Europe new models must produce artificial sounds to warn pedestrians.

Actions that help other people even though they bring no benefit to the person doing them.

• Psychologists have long debated whether purely altruistic behaviour exists or whether people always expect something in return.
• Donating blood to strangers is a clear example of altruistic behaviour in everyday life.