Phrases & Expressions

To bring formal charges against a president or other high-ranking official, which can lead to removal from office.

• Parliament voted to impeach the president after evidence emerged that he had accepted bribes.
• Opposition MPs tried to impeach the president over the corruption scandal, but they did not have enough votes.

To officially stop all trade in something, such as weapons or oil, with a particular country.

• Several governments imposed an embargo on arms sales to the region after the fighting began.
• The UN imposed an oil embargo on the country, which severely damaged its economy within months.

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• In all probability, the final results will not be published until the end of the year.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.

To end up owing money, usually by borrowing it or by spending more than you can afford.

• Students in some countries incur huge debts in order to pay for their university education.
• The airline incurred massive debts during the pandemic and was eventually forced to close.

To form an opinion indirectly, based on evidence rather than on what is directly stated.

• Readers can infer from the author's tone that she disapproves of the new policy.
• What can we infer from the fact that most participants dropped out of the study after a week?

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.

To start the official process of challenging a decision you think is wrong, especially in a court.

• His lawyers have lodged an appeal against the sentence, arguing that the trial was unfair.
• Students who disagree with their final grade can lodge an appeal within ten working days.