Phrases & Expressions

Prices that are as low as they can possibly be.

• The store attracts customers with rock-bottom prices, but its products often don't last long.
• Budget airlines advertise rock-bottom prices, yet passengers often end up paying extra for bags and seats.

To publish or broadcast a particular news report.

• Several newspapers ran the story on their front pages the next morning.
• Before they run a story, responsible journalists check their facts with at least two independent sources.

A district where buildings and streets are in poor condition because they have been neglected.

• The government has promised to invest in run-down areas of northern cities by building new schools and parks.
• They bought a cheap house in a run-down area, hoping that prices would rise once the neighbourhood improved.

To do or decide something too quickly, without thinking carefully about it first.

• Young people are often advised not to rush into choosing a university course they know little about.
• Take your time and don't rush into marriage just because all your friends are settling down.

To write a short message very fast and untidily.

• She scribbled a note to her flatmate saying she would be home late and left it on the fridge.
• During the interview, the journalist scribbled notes on a small pad while I was answering her questions.

To go to a doctor or hospital in order to get treatment or advice.

• Many men delay seeking medical help until their symptoms have already become serious.
• Thanks to a public awareness campaign, more people now seek medical help at the first signs of a stroke.

A very long period with little or no rain that causes serious problems.

• A severe drought in East Africa has left millions of people in urgent need of food aid.
• Farmers in the south lost most of their harvest during last summer's severe drought.

To make something easier to understand by providing new information about it.

• Recent findings shed light on the mysterious origin of the ancient temple.
• Police hope the security footage will shed light on the suspect's movements.

To make something easier to understand by providing new facts or explanations.

• The new evidence shed light on the mysterious disappearance.
• Recent research has shed light on how the disease spreads.

To lose weight, especially by eating less or exercising more.

• Doctors advised him to shed some weight before the operation.
• Many people try to shed weight quickly before the summer, but crash diets rarely work.