Phrases & Expressions

To stop being drunk and become clear-headed.

• He needs time to get sober.
• He drank a lot of coffee to get sober before going home.

To stay where you are and not move until told to, especially in military or air traffic instructions.

• The soldiers were ordered to hold position until reinforcements arrived.
• Please hold position; do not advance further.

To do something to compensate for a mistake or to repair a relationship.

• He wanted to make amends for his rude behavior.
• She tried to make amends by buying him a gift.

To make progress or move forward, especially with difficulty.

• We are finally making headway on the project.
• It's hard to make headway in this market.

A study of underground rock layers made by sending sound waves into the earth.

• They conducted a seismic survey for oil.
• The seismic survey revealed potential gas deposits.

To do something that creates a rule or example for others to follow in the future.

• This ruling sets a precedent for future cases.
• The company's policy sets a precedent for employee benefits.

To start something new that other people will follow.

• The actress set a trend with her new hairstyle.
• Their design set a trend in office furniture.

To stop an audible warning sound in an aircraft.

• Silence the warning after checking the system.
• The crew learned to silence the warning quickly.

A state of mental health where someone is able to think clearly and make rational decisions.

• He was of sound mind when he made the will.
• The court must determine if the person is of sound mind.

To state a clear opinion on an issue and defend it publicly.

• We must take a stand against injustice.
• She took a firm stand on the issue of working hours.