Phrases & Expressions

To run suddenly and very quickly towards the exit, usually to get away from something.

• When the security guard appeared, the shoplifter dropped the bag and bolted for the door.
• As soon as the bell rang at the end of the lesson, half the class bolted for the door.

To improve the flow of blood around the body.

• A short walk after lunch can boost circulation and help you feel more awake.
• Massage is often used to boost circulation in tired legs.

To borrow a large amount of money, often more than is sensible.

• Many governments borrowed heavily during the crisis to protect jobs and businesses.
• Companies that have borrowed heavily are especially vulnerable when interest rates start to rise.

The use of extreme, merciless force by those in power to crush opposition or protest.

• The brutal suppression of the student protests shocked people around the world.
• Historians have documented the regime's brutal suppression of independent newspapers and trade unions.

To develop a friendly relationship with someone in which you understand each other well.

• Doctors who take time to build a rapport with their patients often find it easier to discuss sensitive health problems.
• Good teachers try to build a rapport with every student in their class.

Official rules that cause too much work, cost or difficulty for the people who must follow them.

• Small business owners often complain about burdensome regulations that take time away from running their companies.
• The new government promised to cut burdensome regulations in order to encourage foreign investment.

To agree with an opponent to stop fighting or arguing, at least for a while.

• The rival gangs called a truce after a series of violent clashes left several teenagers badly injured.
• My sister and I finally called a truce and agreed to share the car on alternate weekends.

To continue doing something even though there are problems, warnings or objections.

• The doctor told him to rest, but he carried on regardless and went back to work the next day.
• Even when it started pouring with rain, the band carried on regardless and nobody in the crowd went home.

To make a sudden check on a few people or things chosen at random.

• Inspectors may carry out a spot check at any time, so restaurant kitchens must be kept clean every day.
• An inspector from the exam board carried out a spot check halfway through the test and found two students using phones.

To see something or someone for only a very short moment.

• Crowds waited for hours just to catch a fleeting glimpse of the famous actor as he left the hotel.
• From the train window, we caught a fleeting glimpse of the sea before we entered the tunnel.