Phrases & Expressions

Used to say that you think something is true but are not completely sure.

• The lecture might have been moved to Room 4 – I couldn't swear to it, though.
• I couldn't swear to it, but I'm fairly sure the meeting was cancelled because the manager was ill.

Said when you think that something you would like is very unlikely to happen.

• “The flight is half empty, so maybe the airline will upgrade us to business class.” “I should be so lucky!”
• “Perhaps your landlord will lower the rent next year.” “I should be so lucky! He puts it up every January.”

Very likely; used when you are almost certain about something.

• In all probability, the final results will not be published until the end of the year.
• Without urgent action, the species will in all probability be extinct within a few decades.

More than a stated number or amount.

• The new stadium is expected to cost in excess of £200 million, far more than originally planned.
• Temperatures in excess of 40 degrees are becoming more common in southern Europe every summer.

In connection with something, often to say what a payment or claim is for.

• The company was fined in respect of its failure to protect customers' personal data.
• Employees can claim travel expenses in respect of any journey made for business purposes.

Used in writing to introduce a brief summary of the main points.

• In sum, the decline in bee populations appears to have three main causes: pesticides, habitat loss and disease.
• In sum, renewable energy offers clear environmental benefits, although the initial costs remain high.

Used to say that something is clear or obvious from the available evidence.

• From the survey results, it is apparent that most students prefer face-to-face teaching to online classes.
• It is apparent that the new manager has little experience of leading a team, so he may need extra support.

Used to say firmly that a situation or someone's behaviour is not acceptable and must change.

• It just won't do to hand in an essay full of spelling mistakes when you have a spellchecker.
• We keep losing customers because nobody answers the phone. It just won't do!

To quite like something or be willing to do it.

• Although she prefers working alone, she is not averse to sharing ideas with colleagues when a project requires it.
• Many people say they are not averse to paying slightly higher taxes if the money goes to public hospitals.

Fairly similar to something; used to say that two things are quite alike.

• The proposed tax reforms are not dissimilar to those introduced by the previous government.
• The taste of this tropical fruit is not dissimilar to mango, though it is slightly more sour.