Phrases & Expressions

To look at data or a problem in more and more detail.

• You can drill down into the sales figures.
• Let's drill down to find the cause.

To get support, interest, or business by working hard to find people.

• He travelled the country to drum up support for the cause.
• The company is trying to drum up new business.

To slowly destroy or reduce something by acting on it again and again.

• The acid had eaten away the metal pipe.
• Worry was eating away at her health.

For a roof, ceiling or wall to collapse and fall to the ground.

• Part of the roof fell in during the storm.
• The old mine tunnel fell in after weeks of heavy rain.

To gently mix one ingredient into another, usually a light mixture into a thicker one.

• Fold in the egg whites carefully to keep the air.
• Fold the chocolate chips into the batter.

Of water, to become completely covered with a layer of ice.

• The lake will freeze over in the winter.
• The pond froze over, so we couldn't skate.

To suddenly be unable to move, speak or think, usually because of fear or nerves.

• He completely froze up during the interview.
• She froze up when the teacher asked her a question.

To give someone or something too much attention or worry.

• His grandmother always fusses over him when he visits.
• Stop fussing over the details and finish it.

To lower and extend the landing gear of an aircraft before landing.

• The pilot will gear down before touchdown.
• We should gear down before we reach the final approach fix.

To design or organize something to suit a particular purpose or group.

• The course is geared toward beginners.
• Our products are geared toward young professionals.