Phrases & Expressions

Used to introduce something that was unexpected for you.

• To my surprise, he agreed.
• To my surprise, she remembered me.

Used before a simple explanation.

• To put it simply, it's broken.
• To put it simply, we failed.

Partly; not completely.

• I agree to some extent.
• It's true to some extent.

Used to introduce a summary of the main points of something.

• To sum up, the project was a success.
• To sum up, we need to act fast.

Used to add a final, often negative or surprising, piece of information to a series of events.

• To top it off, we missed the flight.
• And to top it off, it started raining.

A formal opening phrase used in a letter or email when you do not know the name of the specific person you are addressing.

• My letter began with 'To whom it may concern' because I didn't know the manager's name.
• To whom it may concern: this letter confirms that Ms Lee worked here for five years.

Completely; from the highest point to the lowest.

• I cleaned the house top to bottom.
• The police searched the building from top to bottom.

A formal announcement that you will leave your job in two weeks.

• I need to give my boss two weeks notice.
• He resigned, giving two weeks notice.

Using something without the owner's permission.

• Unauthorized use of company property is prohibited.
• They sued for unauthorized use of their music.

To do everything necessary to achieve a goal, no matter how difficult.

• I will do whatever it takes to protect my family.
• We'll finish this project, whatever it takes.