Phrases & Expressions

To ask trusted contacts for information that can help you report or understand a story.

• The reporter tapped her sources inside the hospital to find out why the ward had been closed.
• Good investigative journalists know how to tap their sources without putting them at risk.

Difficult because it involves a lot of specialised scientific or practical knowledge.

• Engineers say that repairing the damaged bridge safely will be technically complex and extremely expensive.
• Repairing modern cars has become so technically complex that mechanics often need special training.

The very large difference in wealth and living standards between wealthy and poor people.

• The charity hopes to narrow the gulf between rich and poor by offering free job training to unemployed adults.
• In many cities, the gulf between rich and poor is clearly visible in the contrast between private and state schools.

The early causes of people's dissatisfaction, which may grow stronger over time.

• Unfair pay rises for senior managers planted the seeds of discontent among the factory workers.
• Years of rising prices and falling wages sowed the seeds of discontent across the country.

The real, basic reason for a problem, which is often not obvious at first.

• Doctors are still trying to find the underlying cause of her frequent headaches.
• Poverty is often the underlying cause of poor school performance in deprived areas.

A pain that comes in regular strong beats, like a pulse.

• After hours of staring at the screen, I had a throbbing ache behind my eyes.
• The throbbing ache in his tooth kept him awake for most of the night.

Very loud clapping from a large audience.

• The orchestra finished the symphony to thunderous applause from a packed concert hall.
• When the winner's name was announced, the whole stadium erupted in thunderous applause.

To cause a public discussion about an issue to start, often suddenly.

• The documentary triggered a debate about the use of animals in scientific research.
• The minister's comments triggered a heated debate about the cost of school meals.

Having made a formal promise, especially in a court of law, that you will tell the truth.

• The witness admitted under oath that she had not actually seen the accident happen.
• Lying under oath is a serious crime that can lead to a prison sentence.

To gradually make people trust something less.

• Repeated scandals have undermined public confidence in the police.
• Fake news stories can seriously undermine confidence in the media and in democratic institutions.