Phrases & Expressions

To turn an engine with the starter motor so that it starts.

• Turn the key and crank it over.
• The engine wouldn't crank over on the cold morning.

To dance with great energy and enthusiasm, often in a lively social setting.

• The music was great, so we decided to cut a rug.
• They really cut a rug at the wedding reception.

A fault that is allowed to remain unfixed for a period, according to regulations.

• This is a deferred defect, allowed by the minimum equipment list.
• They decided to classify it as a deferred defect.

An automatic TCAS voice warning telling the crew to descend at once to avoid another aircraft.

• The TCAS warning said "Descend, descend", so the pilot lowered the nose.
• When TCAS calls "Descend, descend", the crew must follow it immediately.

To leave the planned route for a short time to fly around bad weather or an obstacle.

• The pilot had to deviate around the storm.
• We will deviate around the area of turbulence ahead.

An automatic cockpit voice warning that the aircraft is losing height soon after take-off or a go-around.

• The GPWS gave a "don't sink" warning just after take-off.
• The pilot heard "don't sink" and increased the rate of climb.

A long-term solution that effectively resolves a problem.

• We need a durable solution to this issue.
• Local integration is seen as a durable solution.

To admit you were wrong and apologize humbly.

• He had to eat humble pie after his prediction failed.
• She had to eat humble pie and ask for forgiveness.

To officially order a foreign diplomat to leave the country, usually after a serious dispute.

• The government decided to expel the diplomat.
• They threatened to expel the diplomat if he didn't leave.

A red light that flashes on and off as a warning or stop signal.

• The flashing red light requires a full stop.
• He saw the flashing red and stopped.