Phrases & Expressions

A small number of people or things arriving slowly, a few at a time.

• During the holidays, the campus library sees only a trickle of visitors each day.
• Since the visa rules changed, the university has received only a trickle of applications from abroad.

A large amount or a wide variety of something useful or good.

• Our teacher has a wealth of experience in preparing students for international exams.
• The internet gives students access to a wealth of information, but not all of it is reliable.

A love affair that develops very quickly and intensely, often leading soon to marriage.

• The novel tells the story of a whirlwind romance between two strangers who meet on a train and fall in love within days.
• Many friends doubted that a whirlwind romance could lead to a lasting marriage, but the couple are still together today.

To officially end the system in which people are owned by others and forced to work.

• Britain abolished slavery in most of its colonies in 1833, but forced labour continued in other forms.
• Campaigners who fought to abolish slavery used newspapers, public meetings and petitions to change public opinion.

To make an economy, company or industry grow more quickly.

• Central banks often cut interest rates in an attempt to accelerate growth during an economic slowdown.
• Better transport links could help to accelerate growth in poorer rural regions while also creating local jobs.

To tell the sender officially that a letter, payment or document has arrived.

• Most online shops send an automatic email to acknowledge receipt of your order within minutes.
• The university will acknowledge receipt of your application within five working days.

To show clearly in your writing which books, articles or other works you took ideas from.

• Failing to acknowledge your sources properly can lead to a charge of plagiarism, even if the copying was accidental.
• If you quote statistics in your report, make sure you acknowledge your sources so readers can check them.

To continue to follow a belief, rule or set of principles.

• Many members of the community still adhere to traditional beliefs about marriage and family life.
• All researchers must adhere to strict ethical guidelines when working with human participants.

To publicly support or recommend using something.

• Many teachers advocate the use of mobile phones in class as learning tools, while others want them banned.
• The report advocates the use of renewable energy in all new public buildings.

To accept that two people have different opinions and stop trying to persuade each other.

• My father and I never agree about politics, so we have learned to agree to differ.
• When the two scientists could not resolve their dispute, they decided to agree to differ and publish separate papers.