Phrases & Expressions

Happening or discovered without planning or intention; accidentally.

• I met him by chance.
• We discovered this place by chance.

Charged or paid at a rate for each hour of work or use.

• The taxi charges by the hour.
• We offer consulting services by the hour.

To make people notice something important.

• This report calls attention to the environmental risks.
• The campaign calls attention to the issue of homelessness.

A response indicating that things are going well enough, without any major problems.

• "How are you doing?" — "Can't complain. Busy but good."
• My health is fine, can't complain.

The person or thing that is receiving all the attention.

• The birthday girl was the center of attention all evening.
• He always wants to be the center of attention.

Used to ask someone to repeat what they just said because you did not hear or understand.

• Come again? I didn't hear you.
• Sorry, come again? Could you speak up?

Used to ask someone politely to follow you.

• The flight attendant said, 'Come this way, please.'
• Follow me, come this way to the exit.

Used to talk about something that was possible in the past but did not happen.

• You could have told me you were going to be late.
• I could have won the race if I hadn't fallen.

In air traffic control, straight to a named point instead of along the published route.

• The controller cleared us direct to the airport.
• Can we go direct to the next waypoint?

Used to ask politely whether someone objects to something.

• Do you mind if I open the window?
• Do you mind if we leave a little early today?