Phrases & Expressions

Because of something that happened before.

• She was late as a result of the traffic.
• As a result of the storm, the event was canceled.

In the present situation, if nothing changes.

• As things are, many rural schools do not have enough qualified science teachers.
• We would love to move abroad, but as things are, we simply can't afford it.

To be very likely to happen or to do something, so that you can confidently predict it.

• If cities keep growing at this rate, traffic congestion is bound to get worse.
• Don't worry about the interview – you've prepared so well that you're bound to impress them.

To have your meal or entertainment paid for by the person who has invited you.

• Put your wallet away – you are my guest tonight, and I insist on paying.
• When our partners visited from Japan, we asked them to be our guests for dinner at the best restaurant in town.

To arrive and leave whenever you want, without following anyone else's rules or timetable.

• Now that you have your own flat, you can come and go as you please without anyone asking where you've been.
• The best thing about renting an apartment rather than staying with relatives is that you can come and go as you please.

Used to say you were sure something was true, although it now seems you were wrong.

• I could have sworn I locked the front door, but when I got home it was wide open.
• Sorry, I could have sworn the seminar started at ten, not nine.

To meet someone for lunch, especially to talk about business or keep in touch.

• Let's do lunch next week and talk about the new project.
• Freelancers often do lunch with former colleagues to hear about new job opportunities.

Used to say that you doubt something will happen, even though someone expects it.

• The council says the new road will be finished by spring, but don't bet on it.
• 'Will the landlord fix the heating before winter?' 'Don't bet on it – he's been promising that for months.'

Said when you think something bad has continued for too long and must stop now.

• After the third flood in five years, one farmer told reporters, "Enough is enough — we need proper flood defences now."
• Okay, enough is enough — I'm switching off the TV until you both finish your homework.

A humorous reply meaning that nice words will not persuade you to do what someone wants.

• 'You're the best teacher in the school!' 'Thank you, but flattery will get you nowhere – the deadline is still Friday.'
• When my son praised my cooking and then asked for money, I laughed and told him flattery will get you nowhere.