Phrases & Expressions

A job that offers no chance of advancement or promotion.

• Diane realized that working as a cashier was a dead-end job.
• Jim worked many dead-end jobs before finally deciding to start his own business.

To officially say that there is an emergency, especially when a pilot tells air traffic control that the flight is in serious danger.

• The pilot had to declare an emergency due to engine failure.
• They declared an emergency and diverted to the nearest airport.

Specific food requirements due to health, allergies, or personal choices.

• Please inform us of any dietary needs.
• The caterer can accommodate most dietary needs.

to eat a meal at home, or inside the restaurant where it was bought

• We're going to dine in tonight.
• Dine in or take away?

In air traffic control, straight to a named point instead of along the published route.

• The controller cleared us direct to the airport.
• Can we go direct to the next waypoint?

To help someone by doing something kind for them.

• Could you do me a favour and post this letter?
• He did me a favour by lending me his car.

To buy and sell things, especially as a job.

• Our company does business with twenty countries.
• It's a pleasure doing business with you.

To study a subject in detail.

• She's doing research on climate change.
• I need to do more research.

To act in a morally correct way, even if it is difficult or unpopular.

• Even though it was hard, he decided to do the right thing.
• It's important to do the right thing in business.

To fasten clothes, buttons, a zip or shoelaces.

• Do up your coat; it's cold outside.
• Do up your shoelaces before you trip over them.