Phrases & Expressions

To strongly dislike something or be very unwilling to do it.

• Many teenagers have an aversion to reading long texts and prefer watching short videos instead.
• I've always had an aversion to crowded places, so I avoid shopping centres at weekends.

To have a duty to do something because of a law, rule or moral principle.

• Journalists have an obligation to check their facts carefully before they publish a story.
• Many people believe that rich countries have a moral obligation to help those most affected by climate change.

To know a great deal about a particular subject or be very skilled at it.

• Few doctors have expertise in treating rare childhood diseases, so families often travel long distances for care.
• We need to hire someone who has real expertise in data analysis and statistics.

To have a good reason for a belief, complaint or action.

• If your flight is cancelled without warning, you have grounds for complaint and may be entitled to compensation.
• The tribunal ruled that the company had no grounds for dismissing her and ordered it to pay damages.

To be likely to affect something or someone, especially in the future.

• Rising sea levels have serious implications for coastal cities such as Venice and Jakarta.
• The decision to cut research funding has implications for universities across the whole country.

To have started or developed from a particular time, place or tradition.

• The word 'algebra' has its origins in Arabic, as do several other mathematical terms.
• The game of chess has its origins in India, where it was played more than a thousand years ago.

To make people think of pleasant ideas or feelings, beyond the basic meaning.

• Words like 'home' and 'sunshine' have positive associations for most people.
• For many people, the smell of freshly cut grass has positive associations, bringing back memories of summer holidays.

To praise someone very generously and enthusiastically.

• Critics heaped praise on the young director's first film, calling it brave and original.
• The manager heaped praise on the staff for handling the busy weekend so well.

To respect and admire someone very much.

• Nurses are held in high regard by the public, yet many of them are still poorly paid.
• Professor Aydın holds her former students in high regard and still follows their careers closely.

To be the thing that can explain a mystery or solve a problem.

• Detectives believe the missing laptop could hold the key to solving the case.
• The former manager's emails may hold the key to understanding why the company collapsed so suddenly.