Phrases & Expressions

To pay a lot of money for something, often unwillingly.

• We had to shell out $500 to repair the washing machine.
• How much will I have to shell out for two concert tickets?

To choose one person or thing from a group, often for special attention.

• She was singled out for praise.
• Don't single out one student to answer.

To choose not to participate in something, like a game or activity.

• I'm going to sit this round out.
• He decided to sit out the competition.

To spend a lot of money on something, often as a treat or celebration.

• We decided to splash out on a nice hotel for our anniversary.
• She splashed out on designer clothes.

To lie or sit with your arms and legs spread out in a relaxed way.

• He sprawled out on the floor to watch TV.
• Sprawl out and relax after a long day.

To appear or be found suddenly or unexpectedly.

• New challenges often spring up in business.
• Problems can spring up when you least expect them.

To do the job of another person for a short time because they are absent.

• Can you stand in for me at tomorrow's meeting?
• A young actress stood in for the star.

In baseball, to be out after missing the ball three times.

• The batter struck out in the final inning.
• He struck out three times in the same game.

To make someone officially promise to do a job properly when that person starts it.

• The new prime minister will be sworn in next week.
• She was sworn in as the first female judge.

To carry someone or something away with great force.

• The flood swept away several houses near the river.
• The strong current swept him away from the beach.