Phrases & Expressions

Of an aircraft: stopped at its parking position after a flight, with chocks in place.

• We were on blocks at gate B5 ten minutes ahead of schedule.
• Block time ends when the aircraft is on blocks at its stand.

Of an option: bringing no profit if used now, because its strike price is worse than the market price.

• The far out of the money puts were cheap insurance against a crash.
• An out of the money option that expires worthless costs the buyer only the premium.

A checklist item telling the pilots to put on their oxygen masks and select 100% oxygen.

• After the cabin altitude warning, the captain called for oxygen masks on, 100%.
• When smoke filled the cockpit, both pilots set their oxygen masks to 100%.

A Latin phrase meaning that agreements must be kept.

• The treaty is based on the principle of pacta sunt servanda.
• Pacta sunt servanda is crucial for international relations.

By itself; intrinsically; considering only the thing itself, not other factors.

• Money per se isn't evil.
• I don't dislike the idea per se.

A usability inspection method involving multiple participants.

• We conducted a pluralistic walkthrough.
• The pluralistic walkthrough provided valuable feedback.

To try to win the favour of someone in authority by flattering that person or being too helpful.

• He always polishes the apple with the boss.
• She was polishing the apple to get a promotion.

A matter that has been finally decided by a court and cannot be litigated again.

• The issue is protected by res judicata.
• This claim is barred by res judicata.

To live in a basic or uncomfortable way, without luxuries.

• They had to rough it during their backpacking trip.
• He doesn't mind roughing it in the wilderness.

The area between the social foundation and the ecological ceiling, where human needs are met without harming the planet.

• The goal is to operate within a safe and just space.
• Doughnut economics aims to keep humanity within a safe and just space.