Phrases & Expressions

To deal with a problem or arrange something so that it is no longer a worry.

• It took three phone calls and two emails, but I finally got my visa problem sorted.
• I need to get my accommodation sorted before I start university in September.

To be forced to do something because there is no other possible choice.

• When the factory closed, many workers had no option but to move to the city to find jobs.
• With university fees rising every year, some families have no option but to borrow money.

To get news of someone or learn what they are doing, mostly in questions and negatives.

• Since she moved abroad, we rarely hear anything of our former neighbour except at Christmas.
• If you hear anything of Tom, please let me know how he's getting on with his new job.

Used to say that you believe something is true because someone told you or you read it.

• I gather that the exam results will be published online next week.
• From what she said on the phone, I gathered that the job interview hadn't gone very well.

Used to show that you believe a fact is right but are not completely certain.

• If I recall correctly, the city first introduced a congestion charge about twenty years ago.
• We first met at a conference in Ankara, if I recall correctly, though it might have been in İzmir.

Used when you believe what you are saying is true but are not completely sure.

• If I remember rightly, the lecturer said the essay should be no longer than 2,000 words.
• Your grandmother grew up in a fishing village near the coast, if I remember rightly.

Used politely before giving a criticism or personal opinion that the listener may not welcome.

• Your CV is rather long, if you don't mind my saying so – try to cut it to two pages.
• The presentation was interesting, but, if you don't mind me saying so, your slides had far too much text on them.

Concerning something, or in connection with it.

• The report raises several concerns in relation to student mental health on university campuses.
• Police are questioning two men in relation to the burglary at the primary school last week.

Used to say that something is absolutely necessary.

• It is essential that all laboratory staff wear protective glasses and gloves at all times.
• Before travelling abroad, it is essential that you check whether you need a visa.

Used to introduce a figure or fact that is an approximate calculation, not an exact count.

• It is estimated that around a third of all the food produced in the world is lost or wasted.
• It is estimated that more than half of the world's population now lives in towns and cities.