Moja lekcja

Before transferring the funds, the accountant will zero out (reduce to zero) the balance in the old savings account.

Before transferring the funds, the accountant will zero out (reduce to zero) the balance in the old savings account.

The police promised to act on (take action based on information) the anonymous tip about the location of the stolen goods.

The police promised to act on (take action based on information) the anonymous tip about the location of the stolen goods.

She managed to bang out (produce quickly, often carelessly) the entire report in less than three hours before the deadline.

She managed to bang out (produce quickly, often carelessly) the entire report in less than three hours before the deadline.

The massive storm system began to bear down on (move towards with threat) the entire coastal region in the late evening.

The massive storm system began to bear down on (move towards with threat) the entire coastal region in the late evening.

Please bear with (be patient with) me for a few more minutes while I try to locate the correct file on the server.

Please bear with (be patient with) me for a few more minutes while I try to locate the correct file on the server.

When the journalist tried to provoke him, the senator managed to bite back (retort/reply angrily) with a sharp, prepared answer.

When the journalist tried to provoke him, the senator managed to bite back (retort/reply angrily) with a sharp, prepared answer.

Due to the parade, the police department decided to block off (close access to) the entire main street until noon.

Due to the parade, the police department decided to block off (close access to) the entire main street until noon.

The leader tried to stop the region from voting, but they decided to break away (separate/leave a group) and form their own independent state.

The leader tried to stop the region from voting, but they decided to break away (separate/leave a group) and form their own independent state.

The manager had to call in (request services of) an outside consultant to help them redesign the production process.

The manager had to call in (request services of) an outside consultant to help them redesign the production process.

The thief was so calm that he managed to carry off (succeed in doing something difficult) the complicated jewel robbery without attracting attention.

The thief was so calm that he managed to carry off (succeed in doing something difficult) the complicated jewel robbery without attracting attention.

The entire audience began to clap hands (applaud) loudly when the orchestra finished the complex symphony.

The entire audience began to clap hands (applaud) loudly when the orchestra finished the complex symphony.

After the debate, the politician was forced to climb down (admit one was wrong/change position) from his earlier extreme stance.

After the debate, the politician was forced to climb down (admit one was wrong/change position) from his earlier extreme stance.

After five days of waiting, the positive results from the final medical tests finally came through (be delivered/be successful).

After five days of waiting, the positive results from the final medical tests finally came through (be delivered/be successful).

The children decided to cook up (invent/prepare food) a plan to avoid doing their chores on Saturday morning.

The children decided to cook up (invent/prepare food) a plan to avoid doing their chores on Saturday morning.

Before submitting the official application, be sure to cross out (draw a line through) all errors and initial the changes.

Before submitting the official application, be sure to cross out (draw a line through) all errors and initial the changes.

A few unexpected technical issues always crop up (appear/occur unexpectedly) just when we are about to launch a new product.

A few unexpected technical issues always crop up (appear/occur unexpectedly) just when we are about to launch a new product.

The company announced that it would need to cut back on (reduce quantity/spending) travel expenses due to budget constraints.

The company announced that it would need to cut back on (reduce quantity/spending) travel expenses due to budget constraints.

It suddenly dawned on (realize for the first time) the architect that she had completely miscalculated the building's height.

It suddenly dawned on (realize for the first time) the architect that she had completely miscalculated the building's height.

The antique dealer claims that he only deals in (trade in) genuine 18th-century porcelain and never reproductions.

The antique dealer claims that he only deals in (trade in) genuine 18th-century porcelain and never reproductions.

Make sure you do up (fasten/decorate) your seatbelt tightly before the aircraft begins its take-off procedure.

Make sure you do up (fasten/decorate) your seatbelt tightly before the aircraft begins its take-off procedure.

After the flash flood, the water quickly began to drain away (flow away/disappear) into the underground system.

After the flash flood, the water quickly began to drain away (flow away/disappear) into the underground system.

The doctor advised the runner to ease off (reduce intensity) his intensive training schedule for a couple of weeks to recover.

The doctor advised the runner to ease off (reduce intensity) his intensive training schedule for a couple of weeks to recover.

You need to face up to (accept/deal with) the fact that you will never finish this ambitious project on your own.

You need to face up to (accept/deal with) the fact that you will never finish this ambitious project on your own.

As the years went by, the old friendships slowly began to fall away (disappear/lessen).

As the years went by, the old friendships slowly began to fall away (disappear/lessen).

After several complex calculations, the engineer was finally able to figure out (understand/solve) the root cause of the structural defect.

After several complex calculations, the engineer was finally able to figure out (understand/solve) the root cause of the structural defect.

The customer service agent promised to follow up on (continue/get more information) my complaint within 48 hours.

The customer service agent promised to follow up on (continue/get more information) my complaint within 48 hours.

The student tried to get away with (avoid punishment for) cheating on the test, but the teacher noticed his suspicious behavior.

The student tried to get away with (avoid punishment for) cheating on the test, but the teacher noticed his suspicious behavior.

After an hour of debate, the government finally decided to give in (yield/surrender) to the demands of the workers' union.

After an hour of debate, the government finally decided to give in (yield/surrender) to the demands of the workers' union.

I never expected such a quiet person to go in for (have as a hobby/like) extreme sports like rock climbing.

I never expected such a quiet person to go in for (have as a hobby/like) extreme sports like rock climbing.

The new head of the department is an accomplished economist who hails from (come from) a small university in the Midwest.

The new head of the department is an accomplished economist who hails from (come from) a small university in the Midwest.

When they announced the lottery winner, he could not hold back (stop/restrain) his joyful tears.

When they announced the lottery winner, he could not hold back (stop/restrain) his joyful tears.

We need to schedule a short meeting tomorrow to iron out (resolve small problems) the remaining minor disagreements on the contract.

We need to schedule a short meeting tomorrow to iron out (resolve small problems) the remaining minor disagreements on the contract.

After finishing high school, several young men decided to join up (enlist in military) and travel the world.

After finishing high school, several young men decided to join up (enlist in military) and travel the world.

There are signs everywhere instructing the public to keep off (stay away from) the newly planted flower beds.

There are signs everywhere instructing the public to keep off (stay away from) the newly planted flower beds.

The successful marketing campaign managed to key into (gain deep understanding of) the hidden desires of the young demographic.

The successful marketing campaign managed to key into (gain deep understanding of) the hidden desires of the young demographic.

The normally calm director unexpectedly began to lash out at (attack with words or violence) his team during the stressful meeting.

The normally calm director unexpectedly began to lash out at (attack with words or violence) his team during the stressful meeting.

The company decided to lay on (provide/arrange) a free buffet lunch for all staff working on the weekend shift.

The company decided to lay on (provide/arrange) a free buffet lunch for all staff working on the weekend shift.

We had hoped the heavy rain would let up (decrease/stop) by the afternoon, but it continued all day.

We had hoped the heavy rain would let up (decrease/stop) by the afternoon, but it continued all day.

After years of exponential growth, the company's profits finally began to level off (stabilize) this quarter.

After years of exponential growth, the company's profits finally began to level off (stabilize) this quarter.

The police were confident they had enough evidence to lock up (imprison) the suspect for a very long time.

The police were confident they had enough evidence to lock up (imprison) the suspect for a very long time.

While travelling in a new country, you must always look out for (be careful of) pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

While travelling in a new country, you must always look out for (be careful of) pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

When the warning siren sounded, everyone immediately began to make for (move towards) the nearest shelter entrance.

When the warning siren sounded, everyone immediately began to make for (move towards) the nearest shelter entrance.

The young candidate simply didn't measure up (meet required standards) to the high expectations of the board of directors.

The young candidate simply didn't measure up (meet required standards) to the high expectations of the board of directors.

There must have been a mistake because the receptionist clearly mixed up (confuse/mistake one for another) my appointment with someone else's.

There must have been a mistake because the receptionist clearly mixed up (confuse/mistake one for another) my appointment with someone else's.

After the intense police interrogation, the suspect finally decided to own up to (confess) the crime he committed.

After the intense police interrogation, the suspect finally decided to own up to (confess) the crime he committed.

When the small canoe capsized, we had to paddle through (move with difficulty) the icy water to reach the shore.

When the small canoe capsized, we had to paddle through (move with difficulty) the icy water to reach the shore.

The extreme heat caused several people in the large crowd to suddenly pass out (faint) and require immediate medical attention.

The extreme heat caused several people in the large crowd to suddenly pass out (faint) and require immediate medical attention.

Using only fragments of old documents, the historian tried to piece together (assemble/reconstruct) the ancient manuscript.

Using only fragments of old documents, the historian tried to piece together (assemble/reconstruct) the ancient manuscript.

The new manager struggled to put across (explain clearly) his complicated vision for the company's future to the staff.

The new manager struggled to put across (explain clearly) his complicated vision for the company's future to the staff.

While cleaning the old attic, I was surprised to run across (find unexpectedly) a box of my grandfather's military medals.

While cleaning the old attic, I was surprised to run across (find unexpectedly) a box of my grandfather's military medals.

We need to scope out (investigate/examine thoroughly) the location for the upcoming outdoor concert before confirming the permits.

We need to scope out (investigate/examine thoroughly) the location for the upcoming outdoor concert before confirming the permits.

The journalist quickly had to scratch out (cancel/remove by drawing a line) the entire paragraph after realizing the information was incorrect.

The journalist quickly had to scratch out (cancel/remove by drawing a line) the entire paragraph after realizing the information was incorrect.

After the initial shock, the family quickly set about (begin a task) planning the memorial service.

After the initial shock, the family quickly set about (begin a task) planning the memorial service.

The government attempted to shore up (support/strengthen) the failing currency with an emergency injection of foreign reserves.

The government attempted to shore up (support/strengthen) the failing currency with an emergency injection of foreign reserves.

Since she was still recovering from a minor injury, the star player had to sit out (not take part) the first two games of the season.

Since she was still recovering from a minor injury, the star player had to sit out (not take part) the first two games of the season.

The teaching assistant will stand in for (substitute/take the place of) the professor who is away at a conference this week.

The teaching assistant will stand in for (substitute/take the place of) the professor who is away at a conference this week.

After realizing the fundamental design flaw, the engineers knew they had no choice but to start over (begin again) from scratch.

After realizing the fundamental design flaw, the engineers knew they had no choice but to start over (begin again) from scratch.

While waiting for the bus, the two strangers managed to strike up (begin a conversation/relationship) a surprisingly interesting conversation.

While waiting for the bus, the two strangers managed to strike up (begin a conversation/relationship) a surprisingly interesting conversation.

The police officer quickly asked the witness to take down (write/record) every detail of the accident as soon as possible.

The police officer quickly asked the witness to take down (write/record) every detail of the accident as soon as possible.

The manager has a bad habit of talking down to (speak condescendingly to) his employees, which damages team morale.

The manager has a bad habit of talking down to (speak condescendingly to) his employees, which damages team morale.

The government decided to tear up (destroy a document by tearing) the agreement after it was leaked to the media.

The government decided to tear up (destroy a document by tearing) the agreement after it was leaked to the media.

Before packing the final box, the warehouse worker needs to tick off (mark items on a list) all the contents on the manifest.

Before packing the final box, the warehouse worker needs to tick off (mark items on a list) all the contents on the manifest.

It's a real toss up (an even chance/uncertain outcome) whether the home team or the visitors will win the championship this year.

It's a real toss up (an even chance/uncertain outcome) whether the home team or the visitors will win the championship this year.

I decided to tuck away (hide/store safely) some of my emergency savings in a safe deposit box at the bank.

I decided to tuck away (hide/store safely) some of my emergency savings in a safe deposit box at the bank.

I'm extremely tired after that long day of travel, so I think I'll turn in (go to bed/sleep) early tonight.

I'm extremely tired after that long day of travel, so I think I'll turn in (go to bed/sleep) early tonight.

After his defeat in the election, the outgoing president was required to turn over (hand over) all official documents to his successor.

After his defeat in the election, the outgoing president was required to turn over (hand over) all official documents to his successor.

The admissions office works hard to weed out (eliminate unwanted members/items) unqualified candidates from the pool of applicants every year.

The admissions office works hard to weed out (eliminate unwanted members/items) unqualified candidates from the pool of applicants every year.

The rules clearly state that if a preferred candidate is not listed, you may write in (add a name to a ballot/list) their name manually.

The rules clearly state that if a preferred candidate is not listed, you may write in (add a name to a ballot/list) their name manually.

The photographer instructed the cameraman to zoom in on (focus closely on) the face of the central figure in the crowd.

The photographer instructed the cameraman to zoom in on (focus closely on) the face of the central figure in the crowd.

The government was forced to bail out (save from financial difficulty) the failing national airline to prevent massive job losses.

The government was forced to bail out (save from financial difficulty) the failing national airline to prevent massive job losses.

She decided to wear noise-cancelling headphones to block out (prevent light/sound from entering) the distractions from her busy office.

She decided to wear noise-cancelling headphones to block out (prevent light/sound from entering) the distractions from her busy office.

It's unhealthy to constantly bottle up (hold back emotions) strong feelings; you should talk to someone about them.

It's unhealthy to constantly bottle up (hold back emotions) strong feelings; you should talk to someone about them.

After two hours of persistent arguments, I was finally able to bring her round (persuade) to my way of thinking.

After two hours of persistent arguments, I was finally able to bring her round (persuade) to my way of thinking.

When he heard the shocking news, he couldn't help but burst out (say suddenly/loudly) a string of profanities.

When he heard the shocking news, he couldn't help but burst out (say suddenly/loudly) a string of profanities.

The security guards quickly decided to cart off (remove forcibly) the disruptive protester from the building lobby.

The security guards quickly decided to cart off (remove forcibly) the disruptive protester from the building lobby.

The detectives had to cast about (search widely/try different ideas) for weeks before they found a new lead in the cold case.

The detectives had to cast about (search widely/try different ideas) for weeks before they found a new lead in the cold case.

The heavy snow and freezing rain caused the roof of the old warehouse to finally cave in (collapse).

The heavy snow and freezing rain caused the roof of the old warehouse to finally cave in (collapse).

The commanding officer decided to chew out (reprimand severely) the entire platoon for their poor performance during the exercise.

The commanding officer decided to chew out (reprimand severely) the entire platoon for their poor performance during the exercise.

The legendary artifacts are extremely rare and difficult to come by (obtain/acquire) in the open market today.

The legendary artifacts are extremely rare and difficult to come by (obtain/acquire) in the open market today.

After the heated argument, it took the two colleagues almost an hour to cool down (become less angry) and speak rationally again.

After the heated argument, it took the two colleagues almost an hour to cool down (become less angry) and speak rationally again.

The landlord demanded that the tenants immediately cough up (pay reluctantly) the three months of unpaid rent they owed.

The landlord demanded that the tenants immediately cough up (pay reluctantly) the three months of unpaid rent they owed.

The city council decided to crack down on (take severe measures against) littering by significantly increasing the fines.

The city council decided to crack down on (take severe measures against) littering by significantly increasing the fines.

The legal case has been dragging on (continue tediously) for almost five years now, with no end in sight.

The legal case has been dragging on (continue tediously) for almost five years now, with no end in sight.

The lead runner began to tire on the final lap and slowly started to drop back (move to a position further back) into the pack.

The lead runner began to tire on the final lap and slowly started to drop back (move to a position further back) into the pack.

Despite facing much stronger competitors, the local boxer managed to edge out (defeat narrowly) his rival to win the title.

Despite facing much stronger competitors, the local boxer managed to edge out (defeat narrowly) his rival to win the title.

The CEO tried to explain away (justify/find an excuse for) the terrible quarterly losses by blaming external market factors.

The CEO tried to explain away (justify/find an excuse for) the terrible quarterly losses by blaming external market factors.

As the boat sailed further into the distance, the sound of the ship's horn slowly began to fade out (become quieter/disappear).

As the boat sailed further into the distance, the sound of the ship's horn slowly began to fade out (become quieter/disappear).

He decided to fall in with (agree with/join) the dominant opinion of the committee to avoid further conflict.

He decided to fall in with (agree with/join) the dominant opinion of the committee to avoid further conflict.

We don't earn much, but we have learned to get by (manage/survive) quite comfortably on my single salary.

We don't earn much, but we have learned to get by (manage/survive) quite comfortably on my single salary.

Faced with several excellent options, I finally decided to go for (choose) the classic chocolate flavor for my ice cream.

Faced with several excellent options, I finally decided to go for (choose) the classic chocolate flavor for my ice cream.

Scientists continue to grapple with (struggle with/try to solve) the complex problem of creating sustainable fusion energy.

Scientists continue to grapple with (struggle with/try to solve) the complex problem of creating sustainable fusion energy.

The police chief promised the citizens that they would hunt down (search and find) every single member of the organized crime ring.

The police chief promised the citizens that they would hunt down (search and find) every single member of the organized crime ring.

I need to quickly jot down (write quickly) the address and phone number before I forget the crucial details.

I need to quickly jot down (write quickly) the address and phone number before I forget the crucial details.

It was a serious situation, but the comedian tried to laugh off (treat as unimportant/funny) his mistake with a joke.

It was a serious situation, but the comedian tried to laugh off (treat as unimportant/funny) his mistake with a joke.

The coach decided to lay into (attack verbally/criticize harshly) the entire team after their embarrassing loss in the final game.

The coach decided to lay into (attack verbally/criticize harshly) the entire team after their embarrassing loss in the final game.

She accidentally let out (reveal a secret/sound) the crucial detail about the surprise party while talking to the guest of honor.

She accidentally let out (reveal a secret/sound) the crucial detail about the surprise party while talking to the guest of honor.

During his college years, the impoverished student was forced to live off (depend on financially) only instant noodles and cheap coffee.

During his college years, the impoverished student was forced to live off (depend on financially) only instant noodles and cheap coffee.

I decided to work late tonight to make up for (compensate for) the lost hours I took off yesterday morning.

I decided to work late tonight to make up for (compensate for) the lost hours I took off yesterday morning.

After selling her house, she decided to move in with (start living with) her sister temporarily until she found a new place.

After selling her house, she decided to move in with (start living with) her sister temporarily until she found a new place.

We need one more meeting to nail down (confirm/agree on details) the exact terms of the partnership agreement.

We need one more meeting to nail down (confirm/agree on details) the exact terms of the partnership agreement.

It was such a long and boring lecture that I nearly nodded off (fall asleep accidentally) right in the middle of the classroom.

It was such a long and boring lecture that I nearly nodded off (fall asleep accidentally) right in the middle of the classroom.

When ordering, I decided to opt for (choose in preference) the seafood appetizer instead of the soup of the day.

When ordering, I decided to opt for (choose in preference) the seafood appetizer instead of the soup of the day.

The manufacturing company announced that it will slowly phase out (stop gradually) the production of all older models over the next three years.

The manufacturing company announced that it will slowly phase out (stop gradually) the production of all older models over the next three years.

The child was clearly not enjoying his dinner; he just kept picking at (eat small amounts without enthusiasm) the vegetables on his plate.

The child was clearly not enjoying his dinner; he just kept picking at (eat small amounts without enthusiasm) the vegetables on his plate.

After the weekend, the unprocessed paperwork had completely piled up (accumulate) on the manager's desk.

After the weekend, the unprocessed paperwork had completely piled up (accumulate) on the manager's desk.

The sleepy driver failed to notice the red light and proceeded to plough into (collide violently with) the back of a parked truck.

The sleepy driver failed to notice the red light and proceeded to plough into (collide violently with) the back of a parked truck.

Despite numerous setbacks and delays, the construction crew decided to press on (continue determinedly) with the ambitious project.

Despite numerous setbacks and delays, the construction crew decided to press on (continue determinedly) with the ambitious project.

After the complicated surgery and a long recovery, the patient was finally expected to pull through (survive a dangerous illness/difficulty).

After the complicated surgery and a long recovery, the patient was finally expected to pull through (survive a dangerous illness/difficulty).

Every year, thousands of people gather in the city square to ring in (celebrate the start of) the New Year with fireworks.

Every year, thousands of people gather in the city square to ring in (celebrate the start of) the New Year with fireworks.

The technology company is planning to roll out (launch/introduce new product) their highly anticipated new operating system in the spring.

The technology company is planning to roll out (launch/introduce new product) their highly anticipated new operating system in the spring.

The police chief ordered the officers to quickly round up (gather people/animals) all the stray dogs in the park before nightfall.

The police chief ordered the officers to quickly round up (gather people/animals) all the stray dogs in the park before nightfall.

Investigators were initially confused, but they managed to rule out (eliminate as a possibility) sabotage as the cause of the plane crash.

Investigators were initially confused, but they managed to rule out (eliminate as a possibility) sabotage as the cause of the plane crash.

It's unprofessional to run down (criticize/speak badly of) your former employer in the middle of a job interview.

It's unprofessional to run down (criticize/speak badly of) your former employer in the middle of a job interview.

Be very careful when moving the furniture, or you might scratch up (damage surface by scratching) the new hardwood floor.

Be very careful when moving the furniture, or you might scratch up (damage surface by scratching) the new hardwood floor.

The champion athlete loves to show off (display proudly/boast) his large collection of trophies and medals in his home office.

The champion athlete loves to show off (display proudly/boast) his large collection of trophies and medals in his home office.

I told him the bad news, but he didn't react; I don't think the seriousness of the situation has sunk in (be fully understood) yet.

I told him the bad news, but he didn't react; I don't think the seriousness of the situation has sunk in (be fully understood) yet.

The junior colleague was allowed to sit in on (attend as an observer) the senior management meeting to gain experience.

The junior colleague was allowed to sit in on (attend as an observer) the senior management meeting to gain experience.

It's a major decision; don't rush the answer, just sleep on (postpone decision until next day) it and tell me tomorrow morning.

It's a major decision; don't rush the answer, just sleep on (postpone decision until next day) it and tell me tomorrow morning.

The police used tear gas to smoke out (force someone to leave hiding) the fugitive who was hiding inside the abandoned building.

The police used tear gas to smoke out (force someone to leave hiding) the fugitive who was hiding inside the abandoned building.

Even after all the scandal, the board of directors decided they would stand by (support/remain loyal to) the CEO.

Even after all the scandal, the board of directors decided they would stand by (support/remain loyal to) the CEO.

Following a series of poor financial results, the chairman announced he would step down (resign/leave office) at the end of the fiscal year.

Following a series of poor financial results, the chairman announced he would step down (resign/leave office) at the end of the fiscal year.

On our way to the capital city, we plan to stop off (make a short visit during a journey) at a famous winery in the countryside.

On our way to the capital city, we plan to stop off (make a short visit during a journey) at a famous winery in the countryside.

After the fireworks display, the sanitation crew had to sweep up (clean with a broom) the large amounts of debris scattered across the street.

After the fireworks display, the sanitation crew had to sweep up (clean with a broom) the large amounts of debris scattered across the street.

The lecture contained so much complex information that it took the students several hours to fully take in (understand/absorb) all the concepts.

The lecture contained so much complex information that it took the students several hours to fully take in (understand/absorb) all the concepts.

The marketing team was challenged to think up (invent/create) a completely original slogan for the new product launch.

The marketing team was challenged to think up (invent/create) a completely original slogan for the new product launch.

I gave her a small loan to tide her over (help someone financially for a short time) until she received her next paycheck.

I gave her a small loan to tide her over (help someone financially for a short time) until she received her next paycheck.

Please stop at the gas station so I can top up (fill something that is partially full) the car's fuel tank before the long drive.

Please stop at the gas station so I can top up (fill something that is partially full) the car's fuel tank before the long drive.

After weeks of intense searching, the investigators were finally able to track down (find after a long search) the missing witness.

After weeks of intense searching, the investigators were finally able to track down (find after a long search) the missing witness.

We plan to trade in (exchange old item for credit towards a new one) our old car for a substantial discount on the new hybrid model.

We plan to trade in (exchange old item for credit towards a new one) our old car for a substantial discount on the new hybrid model.

The politician was accused of trying to trump up (invent/fabricate false charges) charges against his electoral rival just before the vote.

The politician was accused of trying to trump up (invent/fabricate false charges) charges against his electoral rival just before the vote.

The bouncer at the club had to turn away (refuse entry) a large group of people because they were not dressed appropriately.

The bouncer at the club had to turn away (refuse entry) a large group of people because they were not dressed appropriately.

Since the heavy snowstorm made driving too dangerous, we decided to wait out (wait until something ends) the weather at the nearest inn.

Since the heavy snowstorm made driving too dangerous, we decided to wait out (wait until something ends) the weather at the nearest inn.

The unexpected tsunami managed to completely wipe out (destroy/obliterate) the small coastal village in a matter of minutes.

The unexpected tsunami managed to completely wipe out (destroy/obliterate) the small coastal village in a matter of minutes.

The accountant needed two full days to work out (calculate) the exact amount of taxes owed by the international corporation.

The accountant needed two full days to work out (calculate) the exact amount of taxes owed by the international corporation.

After a long siege, the defenders were forced to yield to (surrender to/be replaced by) the overwhelming strength of the invading army.

After a long siege, the defenders were forced to yield to (surrender to/be replaced by) the overwhelming strength of the invading army.

The potential buyer tried to back out of (withdraw from an agreement) the contract at the last minute, but the agreement was legally binding.

The potential buyer tried to back out of (withdraw from an agreement) the contract at the last minute, but the agreement was legally binding.

After receiving the devastating news, she tried her best to bear up (remain cheerful/strong) for the sake of her young children.

After receiving the devastating news, she tried her best to bear up (remain cheerful/strong) for the sake of her young children.

The old-fashioned fireplace continued to blaze away (burn strongly and brightly) throughout the long winter night.

The old-fashioned fireplace continued to blaze away (burn strongly and brightly) throughout the long winter night.

Before her interview with the multinational company, she needed to brush up on (quickly revise/improve knowledge) her French language skills.

Before her interview with the multinational company, she needed to brush up on (quickly revise/improve knowledge) her French language skills.

Thousands of passionate fans gathered in the stadium to cheer on (shout encouragement) their team during the critical final match.

Thousands of passionate fans gathered in the stadium to cheer on (shout encouragement) their team during the critical final match.

The school administration decided to clamp down on (take strict action against) the use of mobile phones during class time.

The school administration decided to clamp down on (take strict action against) the use of mobile phones during class time.

After receiving new intelligence, the police started to close in on (approach secretively/surround) the suspect's known location.

After receiving new intelligence, the police started to close in on (approach secretively/surround) the suspect's known location.

The author announced that her highly anticipated new novel is scheduled to come out (be published) next fall.

The author announced that her highly anticipated new novel is scheduled to come out (be published) next fall.

He spent the entire night before the test trying desperately to cram up (study a lot in a short time) all the course material.

He spent the entire night before the test trying desperately to cram up (study a lot in a short time) all the course material.

The thief slowly crept up on (approach slowly and quietly) the unsuspecting victim from behind in the darkened alleyway.

The thief slowly crept up on (approach slowly and quietly) the unsuspecting victim from behind in the darkened alleyway.

Although she works as a lawyer, she also likes to dabble in (take a slight interest in a hobby) painting and pottery in her spare time.

Although she works as a lawyer, she also likes to dabble in (take a slight interest in a hobby) painting and pottery in her spare time.

You must submit all the necessary forms on time, as the success of the entire project depends on (rely/be determined by) your prompt action.

You must submit all the necessary forms on time, as the success of the entire project depends on (rely/be determined by) your prompt action.

After the initial fury of the storm, the wind and rain slowly started to die down (become less strong/calm).

After the initial fury of the storm, the wind and rain slowly started to die down (become less strong/calm).

The moment the lecture ended, the enthusiastic students immediately dove into (begin with enthusiasm) the complex research topic.

The moment the lecture ended, the enthusiastic students immediately dove into (begin with enthusiasm) the complex research topic.

The security guard was fired after his manager found him dozing off (fall asleep accidentally for a short time) while on duty.

The security guard was fired after his manager found him dozing off (fall asleep accidentally for a short time) while on duty.

The struggling charity had to work hard to drum up (increase interest/support) public interest in its new fundraising campaign.

The struggling charity had to work hard to drum up (increase interest/support) public interest in its new fundraising campaign.

Constant stress and worry started to eat away at (erode/destroy slowly) his mental health and overall well-being.

Constant stress and worry started to eat away at (erode/destroy slowly) his mental health and overall well-being.

The director called 'Action!' and the picture on the movie screen slowly began to fade in (become clearer/louder).

The director called 'Action!' and the picture on the movie screen slowly began to fade in (become clearer/louder).

Our plan to travel across the continent had to fall through (fail to happen/be completed) after the airline strike was announced.

Our plan to travel across the continent had to fall through (fail to happen/be completed) after the airline strike was announced.

The teenager was so angry about his grounded weekend that he completely flipped out (become very angry/excited) and broke his phone.

The teenager was so angry about his grounded weekend that he completely flipped out (become very angry/excited) and broke his phone.

Stop fooling around (behave playfully/waste time) in the laboratory and focus on conducting the safety test properly.

Stop fooling around (behave playfully/waste time) in the laboratory and focus on conducting the safety test properly.

After the accident, he found it very difficult to get around (move/travel) the house without the use of his crutches.

After the accident, he found it very difficult to get around (move/travel) the house without the use of his crutches.

The board decided to give over (transfer ownership/responsibility) the failing subdivision to a new management team.

The board decided to give over (transfer ownership/responsibility) the failing subdivision to a new management team.

The political candidate tried to gloss over (mention briefly to avoid detailed discussion) his controversial past during the interview.

The political candidate tried to gloss over (mention briefly to avoid detailed discussion) his controversial past during the interview.

Unfortunately, almost half of the expedition team began to go down with (become ill with) a severe flu on the third day of the trek.

Unfortunately, almost half of the expedition team began to go down with (become ill with) a severe flu on the third day of the trek.

On weekends, all the local teenagers like to hang out (relax/spend time casually) at the small shopping center near the park.

On weekends, all the local teenagers like to hang out (relax/spend time casually) at the small shopping center near the park.

Due to the overwhelming demand, the cinema decided to hold over (delay/postpone) the popular action movie for another week.

Due to the overwhelming demand, the cinema decided to hold over (delay/postpone) the popular action movie for another week.

I need to quickly jot down (write quickly) the address and phone number before I forget the crucial details.

I need to quickly jot down (write quickly) the address and phone number before I forget the crucial details.

The studio decided to kill off (end existence of/stop production) the character after the actor demanded an unrealistically high salary increase.

The studio decided to kill off (end existence of/stop production) the character after the actor demanded an unrealistically high salary increase.

The doctor decided it was time to level with (be honest/tell the truth) the patient about the seriousness of his condition.

The doctor decided it was time to level with (be honest/tell the truth) the patient about the seriousness of his condition.

The rain had been pouring all morning, but around noon, it finally started to let up (stop/become less intense), allowing us to leave the house.

The rain had been pouring all morning, but around noon, it finally started to let up (stop/become less intense), allowing us to leave the house.

Since I don't have to work until noon, I'm planning to lie in (stay in bed later than usual) until at least 9 o'clock tomorrow morning.

Since I don't have to work until noon, I'm planning to lie in (stay in bed later than usual) until at least 9 o'clock tomorrow morning.

When driving in this area, you must constantly look out for (be alert/watch for) deer, as they often cross the road unexpectedly.

When driving in this area, you must constantly look out for (be alert/watch for) deer, as they often cross the road unexpectedly.

The thieves managed to make off with (escape with stolen goods) several expensive paintings and pieces of ancient jewelry.

The thieves managed to make off with (escape with stolen goods) several expensive paintings and pieces of ancient jewelry.

Before walking onto the stage to give the presentation, she had to muster up (gather/summon courage) all her confidence.

Before walking onto the stage to give the presentation, she had to muster up (gather/summon courage) all her confidence.

We started with over a hundred candidates, but we successfully narrowed the list down (reduce the number of options) to the final five potential hires.

We started with over a hundred candidates, but we successfully narrowed the list down (reduce the number of options) to the final five potential hires.

After his initial denial, the small child was finally forced to own up to (admit to something wrong) the fact that he had broken the vase.

After his initial denial, the small child was finally forced to own up to (admit to something wrong) the fact that he had broken the vase.

You shouldn't pass up (decline an opportunity) the chance to study abroad just because you are worried about the cost.

You shouldn't pass up (decline an opportunity) the chance to study abroad just because you are worried about the cost.

The police were unable to pin down (identify/determine precisely) the exact time of the robbery due to conflicting witness statements.

The police were unable to pin down (identify/determine precisely) the exact time of the robbery due to conflicting witness statements.

Since the director was determined to continue, the actors had no choice but to play along (pretend to agree/cooperate) with his bizarre demands.

Since the director was determined to continue, the actors had no choice but to play along (pretend to agree/cooperate) with his bizarre demands.

The economic analysts put down (attribute cause to) the company's unexpected success to a recent shift in consumer preference.

The economic analysts put down (attribute cause to) the company's unexpected success to a recent shift in consumer preference.

Please don't put yourself out (inconvenience oneself) by cooking a huge meal; a simple sandwich will be fine for me.

Please don't put yourself out (inconvenience oneself) by cooking a huge meal; a simple sandwich will be fine for me.

The veteran actor was able to effortlessly reel off (recite quickly and without effort) the entire 15-minute monologue without any notes.

The veteran actor was able to effortlessly reel off (recite quickly and without effort) the entire 15-minute monologue without any notes.

The ancient wooden structure was completely riddled with (full of holes/weaknesses) termite damage after years of neglect.

The ancient wooden structure was completely riddled with (full of holes/weaknesses) termite damage after years of neglect.

The politician's emotional apology seemed forced and didn't really ring true (seem truthful/sincere) to many of the voters.

The politician's emotional apology seemed forced and didn't really ring true (seem truthful/sincere) to many of the voters.

Before putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher, you should first rinse off (wash lightly) the worst of the food particles.

Before putting the dirty dishes in the dishwasher, you should first rinse off (wash lightly) the worst of the food particles.

Despite the difficult questions, the top student managed to sail through (pass easily/do something effortlessly) the final oral exam.

Despite the difficult questions, the top student managed to sail through (pass easily/do something effortlessly) the final oral exam.

The experienced politician tried to shrug off (dismiss as unimportant) the minor public criticism as mere noise from his opponents.

The experienced politician tried to shrug off (dismiss as unimportant) the minor public criticism as mere noise from his opponents.

Because of the severe lack of funding, the local community center was forced to shut down (stop operating) permanently last month.

Because of the severe lack of funding, the local community center was forced to shut down (stop operating) permanently last month.

When the teacher asked for a volunteer answer, the energetic child was the first one to sing out (say loudly and clearly) the correct response.

When the teacher asked for a volunteer answer, the energetic child was the first one to sing out (say loudly and clearly) the correct response.

We had to sit through (stay until the end of a long/boring event) almost three hours of terrible, amateur speeches before the main event started.

We had to sit through (stay until the end of a long/boring event) almost three hours of terrible, amateur speeches before the main event started.

It's important for the junior employee to stand up to (resist/defend against) the office bully and not let him intimidate her.

It's important for the junior employee to stand up to (resist/defend against) the office bully and not let him intimidate her.

Since the temperature dropped below freezing, we decided to stay in (remain indoors) all weekend and watch movies.

Since the temperature dropped below freezing, we decided to stay in (remain indoors) all weekend and watch movies.

The map clearly warns all drivers to steer clear of (avoid) the coastal road during the stormy winter months.

The map clearly warns all drivers to steer clear of (avoid) the coastal road during the stormy winter months.

Because of his brightly colored neon jacket, he stuck out (be noticeable) immediately in the monochrome crowd of people.

Because of his brightly colored neon jacket, he stuck out (be noticeable) immediately in the monochrome crowd of people.

The small construction firm made the brave decision to take on (accept responsibility/employ) the massive new municipal building project.

The small construction firm made the brave decision to take on (accept responsibility/employ) the massive new municipal building project.

The frustrated principal immediately suspended the student who dared to talk back (answer rudely) to his history teacher.

The frustrated principal immediately suspended the student who dared to talk back (answer rudely) to his history teacher.

She was so furious after reading the letter that she immediately started to tear it up (rip into small pieces) into a thousand tiny bits.

She was so furious after reading the letter that she immediately started to tear it up (rip into small pieces) into a thousand tiny bits.

The librarian had to tell off (reprimand/scold) the group of noisy students for disturbing the other patrons in the reading room.

The librarian had to tell off (reprimand/scold) the group of noisy students for disturbing the other patrons in the reading room.

I'm sorry I'm late; I got tied up (delay/prevent from doing something) in traffic downtown for over an hour.

I'm sorry I'm late; I got tied up (delay/prevent from doing something) in traffic downtown for over an hour.

Someone secretly decided to tip off (give secret warning/information to) the police about the illegal gambling operation in the back of the restaurant.

Someone secretly decided to tip off (give secret warning/information to) the police about the illegal gambling operation in the back of the restaurant.

I just need a few minutes to touch up (improve by making small additions/changes) the presentation slides before the client arrives.

I just need a few minutes to touch up (improve by making small additions/changes) the presentation slides before the client arrives.

The editor advised the reporter to tone down (make less intense/extreme) the overly aggressive language used in the article.

The editor advised the reporter to tone down (make less intense/extreme) the overly aggressive language used in the article.

Whenever the discussion stalls, the chairman likes to trot out (produce/present something old/familiar) the same old motivational stories.

Whenever the discussion stalls, the chairman likes to trot out (produce/present something old/familiar) the same old motivational stories.

All students must turn in (submit/give) their final papers to the professor by 5:00 PM on Friday afternoon.

All students must turn in (submit/give) their final papers to the professor by 5:00 PM on Friday afternoon.

Please don't wait up for (remain awake until someone arrives) me tonight; I won't be home until very late after the concert.

Please don't wait up for (remain awake until someone arrives) me tonight; I won't be home until very late after the concert.

The annual town picnic was completely washed out (cancel due to rain) after a sudden and heavy downpour began around noon.

The annual town picnic was completely washed out (cancel due to rain) after a sudden and heavy downpour began around noon.

The non-stop demands and unreasonable hours of the intense project eventually began to wear down (tire out/exhaust) the entire development team.

The non-stop demands and unreasonable hours of the intense project eventually began to wear down (tire out/exhaust) the entire development team.

After two days of intense negotiation, the two companies finally managed to wind up (finish/conclude) the merger agreement.

After two days of intense negotiation, the two companies finally managed to wind up (finish/conclude) the merger agreement.

After collecting all the data, the scientists were able to zero in on (focus precisely on) the exact cause of the strange anomaly.

After collecting all the data, the scientists were able to zero in on (focus precisely on) the exact cause of the strange anomaly.

We thought the renovation would take three months, but we hadn't bargained for (expect/be prepared for) so many unexpected structural problems.

We thought the renovation would take three months, but we hadn't bargained for (expect/be prepared for) so many unexpected structural problems.

The radical new art movement decided to fully break with (end a relationship/tradition) the conservative artistic traditions of the past.

The radical new art movement decided to fully break with (end a relationship/tradition) the conservative artistic traditions of the past.

If you want to finish your thesis on time, you really need to buckle down (work hard/focus seriously) and stop procrastinating.

If you want to finish your thesis on time, you really need to buckle down (work hard/focus seriously) and stop procrastinating.

Very few people actually buy into (believe/accept an idea) the idea that the new budget plan will solve all the economic problems.

Very few people actually buy into (believe/accept an idea) the idea that the new budget plan will solve all the economic problems.

The veteran actor managed to carry off (succeed in doing something difficult/unexpected) the highly demanding role despite his advanced age.

The veteran actor managed to carry off (succeed in doing something difficult/unexpected) the highly demanding role despite his advanced age.

After being sick for a week, I spent the entire weekend trying to catch up on (do something one has not been able to do recently) all my missed schoolwork.

After being sick for a week, I spent the entire weekend trying to catch up on (do something one has not been able to do recently) all my missed schoolwork.

The gardener used a large pair of shears to carefully clip off (cut/remove with shears/scissors) the dead branches from the rose bush.

The gardener used a large pair of shears to carefully clip off (cut/remove with shears/scissors) the dead branches from the rose bush.

After the death of her distant uncle, she unexpectedly came into (inherit) a significant amount of money and a small farm.

After the death of her distant uncle, she unexpectedly came into (inherit) a significant amount of money and a small farm.

After spending the entire afternoon in the hot sun, we decided to cool off (become cool/calm down) with a quick dip in the lake.

After spending the entire afternoon in the hot sun, we decided to cool off (become cool/calm down) with a quick dip in the lake.

The deteriorating road conditions and the constant traffic congestion cry out for (demand immediate attention) an urgent infrastructure upgrade.

The deteriorating road conditions and the constant traffic congestion cry out for (demand immediate attention) an urgent infrastructure upgrade.

Before the poker tournament could begin, the dealer had to carefully deal out (distribute/give shares of) an equal number of cards to each player.

Before the poker tournament could begin, the dealer had to carefully deal out (distribute/give shares of) an equal number of cards to each player.

The cafeteria staff had to dish out (serve food) hundreds of portions of lunch to the hungry students in under thirty minutes.

The cafeteria staff had to dish out (serve food) hundreds of portions of lunch to the hungry students in under thirty minutes.

The mandatory meeting about the new regulations started at 9 AM and continued to drag on (continue for a long time, often boringly) until well past 4 PM.

The mandatory meeting about the new regulations started at 9 AM and continued to drag on (continue for a long time, often boringly) until well past 4 PM.

The architects were challenged to dream up (invent/imagine something unusual) a futuristic and sustainable design for the new city library.

The architects were challenged to dream up (invent/imagine something unusual) a futuristic and sustainable design for the new city library.

The committee chairman kept interrupting the speaker, asking, "What exactly are you trying to drive at (try to say/suggest) with all these statistics?"

The committee chairman kept interrupting the speaker, asking, "What exactly are you trying to drive at (try to say/suggest) with all these statistics?"

The doctor advised the patient to ease off (reduce the intensity of effort/activity) the intense marathon training for a few weeks to let his knee heal.

The doctor advised the patient to ease off (reduce the intensity of effort/activity) the intense marathon training for a few weeks to let his knee heal.

In a highly competitive final round, the underdog team managed to edge out (defeat narrowly) the defending champions by just one point.

In a highly competitive final round, the underdog team managed to edge out (defeat narrowly) the defending champions by just one point.

You can't continue to ignore the debt; you need to face up to (acknowledge/deal with an unpleasant reality) the fact that you need to cut expenses immediately.

You can't continue to ignore the debt; you need to face up to (acknowledge/deal with an unpleasant reality) the fact that you need to cut expenses immediately.

Since the manager is on vacation, his assistant will fill in for (temporarily do someone else's job) him and take charge of the department for the week.

Since the manager is on vacation, his assistant will fill in for (temporarily do someone else's job) him and take charge of the department for the week.

We spent the entire summer trying to fix up (repair/refurbish) the old, broken-down shed in the backyard.

We spent the entire summer trying to fix up (repair/refurbish) the old, broken-down shed in the backyard.

The company tried to fob off (pass off something inferior as acceptable) the cheap, low-quality replacements on customers who had bought the premium product.

The company tried to fob off (pass off something inferior as acceptable) the cheap, low-quality replacements on customers who had bought the premium product.

You made a promise to the community, and now you must follow through (complete an action/promise) and deliver the results.

You made a promise to the community, and now you must follow through (complete an action/promise) and deliver the results.

Even after losing his job, he managed to get by (manage to live/survive financially) for several months by doing odd jobs.

Even after losing his job, he managed to get by (manage to live/survive financially) for several months by doing odd jobs.

Stop talking about irrelevant details; let's get down to (begin to deal with seriously) the main topic of today's meeting.

Stop talking about irrelevant details; let's get down to (begin to deal with seriously) the main topic of today's meeting.

We lost some time due to the delay, but we need to get on with (continue doing) the presentation now if we want to finish on schedule.

We lost some time due to the delay, but we need to get on with (continue doing) the presentation now if we want to finish on schedule.

We only have five cakes, and there are thirty guests; the food certainly won't go around (suffice/be enough for everyone).

We only have five cakes, and there are thirty guests; the food certainly won't go around (suffice/be enough for everyone).

During the lecture, I quickly jotted down (write quickly) the key concepts in my notebook so I wouldn't forget them later.

During the lecture, I quickly jotted down (write quickly) the key concepts in my notebook so I wouldn't forget them later.

The challenging math problem seemed impossible, but she decided to keep at (continue working hard on) it until she found the solution.

The challenging math problem seemed impossible, but she decided to keep at (continue working hard on) it until she found the solution.

The younger athletes trained harder because they were struggling to keep up with (stay equal with/match pace) the speed of the Olympic champion.

The younger athletes trained harder because they were struggling to keep up with (stay equal with/match pace) the speed of the Olympic champion.

After his embarrassing public speech, the politician knew he would never be able to fully live down (make people forget a mistake/embarrassment) the incident.

After his embarrassing public speech, the politician knew he would never be able to fully live down (make people forget a mistake/embarrassment) the incident.

All the young athletes in the local club look up to (respect/admire) the former champion for his dedication and humble spirit.

All the young athletes in the local club look up to (respect/admire) the former champion for his dedication and humble spirit.

As soon as the sun started setting over the mountains, the climbers began to make for (move towards) the nearest shelter.

As soon as the sun started setting over the mountains, the climbers began to make for (move towards) the nearest shelter.

The retailer had to mark down (reduce price) all the winter coats by 50% to clear the stock before the spring season began.

The retailer had to mark down (reduce price) all the winter coats by 50% to clear the stock before the spring season began.

Before walking onto the stage to give the presentation, she had to muster up (gather/summon courage) all her confidence.

Before walking onto the stage to give the presentation, she had to muster up (gather/summon courage) all her confidence.

Because of the extra cost, many families chose to opt out (decide not to take part in) the optional school trip to the capital city.

Because of the extra cost, many families chose to opt out (decide not to take part in) the optional school trip to the capital city.

After the meeting, please pass on (transmit/give information to someone else) the full instructions for the new project to the junior team members.

After the meeting, please pass on (transmit/give information to someone else) the full instructions for the new project to the junior team members.

The company announced that they would slowly phase out (stop using/producing gradually) the outdated software over the next two fiscal years.

The company announced that they would slowly phase out (stop using/producing gradually) the outdated software over the next two fiscal years.

The security guard had to play back (re-watch/re-listen to a recording) the CCTV footage to see exactly when the package was delivered.

The security guard had to play back (re-watch/re-listen to a recording) the CCTV footage to see exactly when the package was delivered.

During the meeting, the junior engineer bravely decided to put forward (propose/suggest) his innovative but high-risk solution to the complex problem.

During the meeting, the junior engineer bravely decided to put forward (propose/suggest) his innovative but high-risk solution to the complex problem.

Due to the heavy storm, the opening ceremony of the new museum had to be put off (postpone) until the following week.

Due to the heavy storm, the opening ceremony of the new museum had to be put off (postpone) until the following week.

We managed to rope in (persuade someone to help with a task) the CEO's administrative assistant to help us organize the entire corporate party.

We managed to rope in (persuade someone to help with a task) the CEO's administrative assistant to help us organize the entire corporate party.

After spending a lot of time with her optimistic colleague, his positive attitude started to rub off on (transfer a quality/emotion to another person) her.

After spending a lot of time with her optimistic colleague, his positive attitude started to rub off on (transfer a quality/emotion to another person) her.

The experienced police officer could easily see through (not be deceived by) the suspect's hastily constructed story and obvious lies.

The experienced police officer could easily see through (not be deceived by) the suspect's hastily constructed story and obvious lies.

Before leaving for the airport, I quickly stopped at the post office to send off (mail/dispatch) the important legal documents.

Before leaving for the airport, I quickly stopped at the post office to send off (mail/dispatch) the important legal documents.

It was getting late, and since the weather looked promising, the captain told the crew to shove off (depart/leave a location by boat).

It was getting late, and since the weather looked promising, the captain told the crew to shove off (depart/leave a location by boat).

We waited for over an hour, but the lead architect failed to show up (arrive) for the crucial client meeting.

We waited for over an hour, but the lead architect failed to show up (arrive) for the crucial client meeting.

The crowd started to sing along (sing with a recorded song) when the band played the first few chords of their biggest hit song.

The crowd started to sing along (sing with a recorded song) when the band played the first few chords of their biggest hit song.

The data analyst made a major slip up (make a mistake) by sending the confidential report to the wrong client yesterday afternoon.

The data analyst made a major slip up (make a mistake) by sending the confidential report to the wrong client yesterday afternoon.

During the chaotic town hall meeting, the angry citizens started to sound off (express strong opinions loudly) about the proposed tax increase.

During the chaotic town hall meeting, the angry citizens started to sound off (express strong opinions loudly) about the proposed tax increase.

The CEO's abrupt decision to fire the entire marketing team immediately sparked off (cause something, often quickly/violently) a massive wave of employee protests.

The CEO's abrupt decision to fire the entire marketing team immediately sparked off (cause something, often quickly/violently) a massive wave of employee protests.

After receiving her annual bonus, she decided to splash out (spend a lot of money on something non-essential) on a luxury cruise around the Caribbean islands.

After receiving her annual bonus, she decided to splash out (spend a lot of money on something non-essential) on a luxury cruise around the Caribbean islands.

The two rival nations continued to squabble over (argue about something trivial) the minor border skirmish, refusing to find a peaceful resolution.

The two rival nations continued to squabble over (argue about something trivial) the minor border skirmish, refusing to find a peaceful resolution.

After the contentious business meeting, both parties agreed to square up (settle a debt/disagreement) all outstanding issues before the end of the day.

After the contentious business meeting, both parties agreed to square up (settle a debt/disagreement) all outstanding issues before the end of the day.

The new government promised to stamp out (eliminate/destroy completely) the rampant corruption that had plagued the nation for decades.

The new government promised to stamp out (eliminate/destroy completely) the rampant corruption that had plagued the nation for decades.

In mathematics, the Greek letter $\pi$ (pi) stands for (represent/mean) the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.

In mathematics, the Greek letter $\pi$ (pi) stands for (represent/mean) the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter.

Due to the actor's sudden illness, a relatively unknown understudy had to stand in for (substitute/take the place of) him during the evening performance.

Due to the actor's sudden illness, a relatively unknown understudy had to stand in for (substitute/take the place of) him during the evening performance.

On our way to Australia, we decided to stop over (break a long journey) in Singapore for two days to visit the famous gardens.

On our way to Australia, we decided to stop over (break a long journey) in Singapore for two days to visit the famous gardens.

Despite the coach's warnings, the reckless team decided to strike out (start to go in a new direction/fail in an attempt) on a completely new offensive strategy.

Despite the coach's warnings, the reckless team decided to strike out (start to go in a new direction/fail in an attempt) on a completely new offensive strategy.

The journalist was asked to sum up (summarize/give the main points of) the lengthy political debate in a single, concise paragraph.

The journalist was asked to sum up (summarize/give the main points of) the lengthy political debate in a single, concise paragraph.

The sales figures for the luxury product started to tail off (decrease in amount/intensity) significantly after the initial holiday rush ended.

The sales figures for the luxury product started to tail off (decrease in amount/intensity) significantly after the initial holiday rush ended.

Since tomorrow is a national holiday and the office is closed, I plan to lie in (sleep late) until at least 10 AM.

Since tomorrow is a national holiday and the office is closed, I plan to lie in (sleep late) until at least 10 AM.

During his university years, he had to live off (get money/resources from a specific source) the small scholarship he received and his meager savings.

During his university years, he had to live off (get money/resources from a specific source) the small scholarship he received and his meager savings.

The similar spellings of the two names often caused the administrative assistant to mix up (confuse two or more things/people) the files belonging to the different clients.

The similar spellings of the two names often caused the administrative assistant to mix up (confuse two or more things/people) the files belonging to the different clients.

After several hours of discussion, we finally managed to nail down (determine/pinpoint something precisely) the exact root cause of the system failure.

After several hours of discussion, we finally managed to nail down (determine/pinpoint something precisely) the exact root cause of the system failure.

The child decided it was better to own up to (admit to doing something wrong) breaking the vase than to let his innocent sister take the blame.

The child decided it was better to own up to (admit to doing something wrong) breaking the vase than to let his innocent sister take the blame.

The unscrupulous dealer tried to pass off (represent falsely) the cheap imitation artwork as an original masterpiece.

The unscrupulous dealer tried to pass off (represent falsely) the cheap imitation artwork as an original masterpiece.

After long deliberation, the judges decided to plump for (choose/select finally) the innovative, but slightly risky, design submission.

After long deliberation, the judges decided to plump for (choose/select finally) the innovative, but slightly risky, design submission.

The forensic scientists had to pore over (examine closely/study intensely) hundreds of pages of complex data before finding the critical link.

The forensic scientists had to pore over (examine closely/study intensely) hundreds of pages of complex data before finding the critical link.

Despite the increasingly bad weather forecast, the hiking group decided to press on (continue determinedly) toward the mountain summit.

Despite the increasingly bad weather forecast, the hiking group decided to press on (continue determinedly) toward the mountain summit.

The small start-up managed to pull off (succeed in doing something difficult) a huge merger with a much larger competitor, defying all expectations.

The small start-up managed to pull off (succeed in doing something difficult) a huge merger with a much larger competitor, defying all expectations.

The new sales manager was praised because he could quickly put across (communicate an idea effectively) complex financial concepts to non-experts.

The new sales manager was praised because he could quickly put across (communicate an idea effectively) complex financial concepts to non-experts.

The way the veteran politician tried to put down (insult/criticize harshly) his young rival during the televised debate was widely condemned.

The way the veteran politician tried to put down (insult/criticize harshly) his young rival during the televised debate was widely condemned.

Please stop clicking that pen; the repetitive noise is starting to put me off (distract/make someone dislike) my work.

Please stop clicking that pen; the repetitive noise is starting to put me off (distract/make someone dislike) my work.

Before the interview, the job candidate spent the whole morning reading up on (research/study a topic) the history and recent projects of the company.

Before the interview, the job candidate spent the whole morning reading up on (research/study a topic) the history and recent projects of the company.

The police were dispatched to round up (gather/collect people or animals) all the witnesses to the traffic accident and bring them to the station.

The police were dispatched to round up (gather/collect people or animals) all the witnesses to the traffic accident and bring them to the station.

I need to rub out (erase with an eraser) this calculation error and redo the entire financial analysis for the annual report.

I need to rub out (erase with an eraser) this calculation error and redo the entire financial analysis for the annual report.

The junior staff member had to run around (be busy with many tasks in different places) all day collecting signatures for the new contract.

The junior staff member had to run around (be busy with many tasks in different places) all day collecting signatures for the new contract.

I can't believe I ran into (meet unexpectedly) my old high school friend at the airport on the other side of the world!

I can't believe I ran into (meet unexpectedly) my old high school friend at the airport on the other side of the world!

The child was so upset after being scolded by his mother that he decided to run off (leave quickly/escape) and hide in the woods.

The child was so upset after being scolded by his mother that he decided to run off (leave quickly/escape) and hide in the woods.

I need to see about (deal with/make arrangements for) booking the conference room and ordering catering for the training session next week.

I need to see about (deal with/make arrangements for) booking the conference room and ordering catering for the training session next week.

The popular concert was so heavily promoted that it managed to sell out (sell all the tickets/stock) within minutes of going on sale.

The popular concert was so heavily promoted that it managed to sell out (sell all the tickets/stock) within minutes of going on sale.

The referee had to send off (expel from a sports match) the player for violent conduct after he intentionally tripped an opponent.

The referee had to send off (expel from a sports match) the player for violent conduct after he intentionally tripped an opponent.

A group of volunteers worked together for months to set up (establish/create) a new food bank to help local families in need.

A group of volunteers worked together for months to set up (establish/create) a new food bank to help local families in need.

Despite drinking two strong coffees, he couldn't seem to shake off (get rid of/recover from) the lingering feeling of fatigue after his overnight flight.

Despite drinking two strong coffees, he couldn't seem to shake off (get rid of/recover from) the lingering feeling of fatigue after his overnight flight.

The government tried to shore up (support/strengthen) the rapidly declining economy with a massive injection of public funds.

The government tried to shore up (support/strengthen) the rapidly declining economy with a massive injection of public funds.

He knew how to play the piano well, but his tendency to constantly show off (boast/display abilities proudly) was quite annoying.

He knew how to play the piano well, but his tendency to constantly show off (boast/display abilities proudly) was quite annoying.

When the CEO walked into the usually casual meeting room, all the employees immediately sat up (straighten posture/pay attention) and stopped chatting.

When the CEO walked into the usually casual meeting room, all the employees immediately sat up (straighten posture/pay attention) and stopped chatting.

Before starting the high-stakes negotiation, the CEO took a moment to quietly size up (assess/evaluate a person/situation) the capabilities of the opposing team.

Before starting the high-stakes negotiation, the CEO took a moment to quietly size up (assess/evaluate a person/situation) the capabilities of the opposing team.

The management warned the production team that if they continued to slack off (work lazily/less intensely), they would miss the tight deadline.

The management warned the production team that if they continued to slack off (work lazily/less intensely), they would miss the tight deadline.

After receiving her annual bonus, she decided to splash out on (spend a lot of money on something non-essential) a luxury cruise around the Caribbean islands.

After receiving her annual bonus, she decided to splash out on (spend a lot of money on something non-essential) a luxury cruise around the Caribbean islands.

New fast-food chains seem to spring up (appear/develop suddenly and quickly) on every corner of the city after the easing of business regulations.

New fast-food chains seem to spring up (appear/develop suddenly and quickly) on every corner of the city after the easing of business regulations.

The two rival candidates for the mayoral position are scheduled to square off (prepare to fight/compete) in a public debate next week.

The two rival candidates for the mayoral position are scheduled to square off (prepare to fight/compete) in a public debate next week.

The political conflict can be traced back to the nation's independence war, meaning the current crisis stems from (originate/be caused by) historical resentment.

The political conflict can be traced back to the nation's independence war, meaning the current crisis stems from (originate/be caused by) historical resentment.

Despite all the negative press and public criticism, his closest supporters vowed to stick by (remain loyal/continue to support) the disgraced leader.

Despite all the negative press and public criticism, his closest supporters vowed to stick by (remain loyal/continue to support) the disgraced leader.

Knowing a major blizzard was coming, the local residents rushed to the supermarket to stock up on (buy a large quantity of something) essential supplies.

Knowing a major blizzard was coming, the local residents rushed to the supermarket to stock up on (buy a large quantity of something) essential supplies.