Phrases & Expressions

To describe the main points of something briefly.

• Let me sum up our discussion.
• How would you sum up the film?

To begin an official job or role after taking an oath.

• The new president will be sworn in next week.
• She was sworn in as the new CEO.

To surprise someone, often in a way that makes them feel confused or shocked.

• His sudden resignation took us all aback.
• She was taken aback by the unexpected question.

to accept a job or responsibility; to hire

• He took on a new project last week.
• The company is taking on ten new employees.

To reply rudely or disrespectfully to someone, especially an older person or authority figure.

• Never talk back to your parents.
• The student got in trouble for talking back.

To persuade someone to do something they were not initially willing to do.

• Chris didn't want to jump out of the plane, but Erin talked him into it.
• Stop trying to talk me into going to the dance club Saturday — I already decided to go to Maria's party.

To persuade someone not to do something.

• I talked him out of quitting.
• She talked me out of buying it.

To join together with others to form a team or work on a task.

• Let's team up to finish this report.
• They teamed up to win the competition.

To mention a subject briefly.

• The report only touches on the environmental impact.
• He touched on his past experiences.

To protect someone or something and make sure they are safe.

• Please watch over my bag.
• The nurse watched over the sick child all night.