Phrases & Expressions

Said by a pilot to confirm that he or she is taking over control of the aircraft from the other pilot.

• My controls, I have control.
• Say 'my controls' when you take over.

No lie; seriously (slang).

• This is the best pizza, no cap.
• He won the lottery, no cap.

Officially absent from work or military service for a period of time.

• She's on maternity leave.
• He's on leave this week.

Ready to act or be used immediately if needed.

• An engineer is on standby all weekend in case the system fails.
• Ambulances were on standby near the stadium during the match.

Served with ice cubes.

• I'll have a whisky on the rocks, please.
• He likes his whisky on the rocks, not neat.

Considering everything.

• On the whole, it was a good year.
• On the whole, I agree with you.

Indicating that someone is actively seeking new employment.

• She has the 'open to work' banner on her profile.
• Are you open to work right now?

Producing notes that are not at the correct musical pitch.

• The guitar is completely out of tune.
• She sang a bit out of tune.

A status indicating that a patent application has been filed but not yet granted.

• The device is patent pending.
• The box says 'patent pending' under the product name.

In separate parts, one after another; gradually.

• We built it piece by piece.
• She solved the puzzle piece by piece.