Phrases & Expressions

Behaviour that is generally accepted as correct and proper according to social custom.

• In some countries tipping waiters is the done thing, while in others it can seem rude.
• When I first arrived in Britain, I didn't realise that queuing patiently was very much the done thing.

A person or thing that is real and authentic, not a fake or imitation.

• Experts examined the painting for months before confirming that it was the genuine article.
• Lots of restaurants claim to serve authentic Italian pizza, but this little place is the genuine article.

Early evidence that a weak economy is beginning to get better after a difficult period.

• Rising factory orders are being seen as the green shoots of recovery after two difficult years for manufacturers.
• After two years of falling sales, estate agents are finally seeing the green shoots of recovery in the housing market.

The very large difference in wealth and living standards between wealthy and poor people.

• The charity hopes to narrow the gulf between rich and poor by offering free job training to unemployed adults.
• In many cities, the gulf between rich and poor is clearly visible in the contrast between private and state schools.

An ordinary member of the public, as opposed to experts, officials or people in power.

• Economists often forget that the man in the street cares more about food prices than about growth figures.
• Politicians should explain their policies in a way that the man in the street can easily understand.

Used to say that something will probably happen or is probably true.

• If you leave all your revision until the last week, the odds are you will struggle in the exam.
• With so many people applying, the odds are that the course will be full by March.

Used to say that something is unlikely to happen or succeed.

• Even though the odds are against success, the scientists are determined to keep searching for a cure.
• We have no experience and very little money, so the odds are against us, but we are going to try anyway.

Special treatment given to an important guest to make them feel welcome and valued.

• Visiting scientists received the red-carpet treatment, including a private tour of the new laboratory.
• Loyal customers often get the red-carpet treatment, with free upgrades and priority service.

Used to say that something terrible suddenly happened and everything seemed to collapse.

• When the factory closed and both parents lost their jobs, the roof fell in on the whole family.
• The team was top of the league in January, but then the roof fell in and they lost six games in a row.

The early causes of people's dissatisfaction, which may grow stronger over time.

• Unfair pay rises for senior managers planted the seeds of discontent among the factory workers.
• Years of rising prices and falling wages sowed the seeds of discontent across the country.