Phrases & Expressions

To not be affected or influenced by something such as criticism or pressure.

• The minister was impervious to criticism and refused to change the policy despite widespread protests.
• Some investors are impervious to bad news and keep buying shares even when prices fall.

To agree completely with someone's opinion or with an idea, plan or principle.

• The committee's final recommendations are in accord with the views expressed by most parents in the survey.
• On the question of school uniforms, the teachers and parents were completely in accord with each other.

To have the same effect as something bad, or to be as bad as it.

• Cutting the hospital's budget yet again would be tantamount to closing it altogether.
• Many voters felt that the minister's silence was tantamount to an admission of guilt.

To get so used to something unpleasant that it no longer upsets or affects you.

• After ten years of living next to the airport, we have become inured to the noise of planes taking off at night.
• After years of working in emergency medicine, the nurse had become inured to the sight of serious injuries.

To give someone an honour, title or valuable gift, especially at an official ceremony.

• The university bestowed an honorary degree on the retired nurse for her fifty years of service.
• The title of 'Volunteer of the Year' is bestowed upon one local resident every December.

To tell lies in a court of law after promising to tell the truth.

• The witness was later charged with committing perjury when video evidence contradicted her testimony.
• The judge reminded the witness that she would be committing perjury if she gave false evidence under oath.

To have the same opinion as another person or as a particular view.

• The second doctor concurred with her colleague's diagnosis and recommended surgery as soon as possible.
• The committee concurred with the auditors' conclusion that the project had been poorly managed.

To accept or seem to approve of violent behaviour that is morally wrong.

• The head teacher made it clear that the school would never condone violence of any kind.
• Critics accused the film of condoning violence by making the gang members look glamorous.

To die with no valid will, so that the law decides who receives your property.

• Writing a simple will prevents the legal complications that can arise when people die intestate.
• If you die intestate, your savings may not go to the people you would have chosen.

To receive praise and admiration from many people, especially experts or critics.

• The city's new recycling scheme has earned plaudits from environmental groups across the country.
• Her first novel earned plaudits from critics, although it sold relatively few copies.