Phrases & Expressions

To make an unfair difference between groups in society continue for a long time.

• Critics say that expensive private tutoring perpetuates inequality, because only wealthier families can afford it.
• Policies that ignore the needs of rural areas risk perpetuating inequality between the countryside and the cities.

A sudden shriek so sharp and shrill that it seems to cut through the air.

• A piercing scream from the flat upstairs made everyone rush to the window.
• The horror film opens with a piercing scream that makes half the audience jump.

A reason for something that seems likely to be true.

• The student failed to offer a plausible explanation for the identical paragraphs in his two essays.
• Lack of sleep is a plausible explanation for the drop in students' concentration during morning lessons.

To make a serious public promise to do something, often on behalf of an organisation or government.

• At the summit, several governments pledged to plant millions of trees, but critics doubted the promise would be kept.
• The university has pledged to offer free mental health support to every student who needs it.

A lack of clean toilets, drains and safe ways of removing waste and dirty water.

• Poor sanitation is a major cause of diseases such as cholera in overcrowded urban areas.
• Many schools in rural districts suffer from poor sanitation, which keeps some girls away from lessons.

To create a possible risk of harm to someone or something.

• Plastic waste in the oceans poses a serious danger to marine life and to the people who eat fish.
• Engineers warned that the old bridge posed a danger to drivers and should be closed at once.

A natural area that is completely clean and has not been spoiled or changed by people.

• The island limits the number of tourists each year in order to preserve its pristine environment.
• Researchers travelled to a remote mountain lake, one of the few pristine environments left in Europe.

Of the money a company makes, to rise very quickly and by a large amount.

• Online retailers saw their profits rocket during the pandemic as more people did their shopping from home.
• After the new app was launched, the small start-up's profits rocketed and it doubled its staff within a year.

To dress and behave in a way that makes others see you as serious and competent at work.

• Staff who deal directly with clients are expected to project a professional image at all times.
• A neat appearance and a firm handshake can help job candidates project a professional image in interviews.

Numbers that are estimated or planned for the future, based on current information.

• Our projected figures for next year assume steady growth in online sales.
• Actual visitor numbers were well below the projected figures, so the museum had to cut staff.