Phrases & Expressions

Used to say that something happens or is true even though something else might prevent it.

• In spite of the rain, we had fun.
• In spite of being tired, she kept going.

Supporting or agreeing with someone or something.

• Many parents spoke in support of the new school timetable.
• He wrote a letter in support of his friend's application.

Happening extremely quickly or suddenly; in a very short amount of time.

• The accident happened in the blink of an eye.
• She was gone in the blink of an eye.

Considering the distant future, rather than the immediate future.

• It pays off in the long term.
• These changes will benefit us in the long term.

at the last possible moment, just before it is too late

• He arrived in the nick of time.
• We finished the project in the nick of time.

Being planned or developed and expected to happen or be ready soon.

• We have several new projects in the pipeline.
• The new software is in the pipeline and will be released next month.

receiving a lot of public attention and focus

• She loves being in the spotlight.
• The issue is now in the spotlight.

As a theory, but maybe not in practice.

• In theory, it should work.
• In theory, yes; in practice, no.

Following one after another in a particular order.

• The children opened their presents in turn.
• The teacher asked each student in turn to read a sentence.

To state very firmly that something must happen or be done.

• She insisted on paying for the meal.
• He insisted on seeing the manager.