The Last Word (Unit 8)

used to imply that even the most careful or well-prepared people or families can still experience unexpected mishaps or mistakes

They were upset about the spilled wine on the carpet but remembered accidents will happen in the best of families.

used to say that people's actions show their true intentions or beliefs more clearly than their words

Actions speak louder than words when it comes to leadership.It's not enough to just talk about what needs to be done, you have to lead by example.

something that is really terrible to experience

The prisoner pleaded for mercy, knowing that a life sentence in solitary confinement would be a fate worse than death.

used to suggest that the success of a man is often due to the support, hard work, and sacrifices of a woman in his life

Behind every great man stands a woman who has supported him through thick and thin.

used to describe something that is complicated due to not being clearly described or shown

His instructions for assembling the furniture were clear as mud; I had to figure it out on my own.

used to describe someone or something that perfectly matches one's tastes, values, or preferences

He’s a man after my own heart; he loves hiking as much as I do.

used to excuse or dismiss negative behavior by boys or men, with the implication that it is simply part of their nature

When the boys started playing soccer inside the house and broke the vase, his mother just sighed and said, "boys will be boys."

used before stating the most important fact about a particular situation

I know it's a lot of work, but at the end of the day, it'll be worth it.

the unexpected appearance or remebrance of a person or thing that evokes nostalgic feelings within one

What a blast from the past!I haven’t heard that song in years.

used for saying that without working hard and experiencing difficulties, one cannot achieve anything

She pushed through the tough workout, reminding herself, "no pain, no gain."

used to suggest that it is preferable to take precautions and be cautious in order to avoid problems or regret later on

Better safe than sorry, so I wore a helmet while biking, even though I wasn’t going fast.

used to suggest that misfortune or bad luck often happens in groups of three, and when one negative event occurs, two more will follow

I spilled coffee on my shirt, got caught in the rain, and then my computer crashed.Bad things come in threes, right?

used to suggest that good things often happen in groups of three

I got a promotion, won a small prize, and had a great dinner with friends—good things come in threes!

used to say that a son's behavior or qualities are similar to those of his father

He always fixes things around the house just like his dad—like father, like son.

used to imply that diversity and individual differences among people are necessary for the world to function and thrive

He’s eccentric, but it takes all sorts to make a world.

used to mean that it is better to take action or complete a task, even if it is delayed, rather than not doing it at all

I finally submitted my application.Better late than never, right?

something that is exactly what is needed or required in a certain situation

After a long day at work, a relaxing bubble bath was just what the doctor ordered to help me unwind.

used to advise someone to behave responsibly and not engage in risky or questionable behavior

Do not do anything that I wouldn't do, and we should be fine.

to believe that it is not someone's place to make a decision or judgment on a particular matter and that it should be left to others who are more qualified or have more authority to do so

It is not for him to say whether we should go or stay.

to be in a difficult situation where any decision or action taken may result in negative consequences, no matter what choice is made

She is damned if she does, damned if she doesn't—either way, someone will be unhappy.

used to convey surprise, shock, or disbelief in response to something that is difficult to comprehend or absurd

The speed at which technology is advancing these days boggles the mind.

to be so unpleasant, disturbing, or frightening that it is difficult to even consider or imagine

She couldn't bear thinking about the terrible accident that had happened.

to shop to the point of exhaustion or until one collapses

Every weekend my wife shops till she drops.

used to imply that different people are suited to different things, and what works well for one person may not work well for another

You can't expect everyone to be good at everything—horses for courses, after all.

an event or service where a person, such as a celebrity, politician, or businessperson, meets and interacts with members of the public

The actor held a meet and greet session after the movie premiere to sign autographs for fans.

done honestly, justly, or without disobeying any rules

I always play by the rules and compete fair and square.

used to say that someone or something has gone from a position of low status or obscurity to one of great success, fame, or popularity

After his parents won the lottery, John went from zero to hero in his high school overnight.

used to refer to one's closest and most intimate family members or friends

She wanted to spend the holidays with her nearest and dearest.

used to imply that if something is not used or practiced, it will be forgotten or taken away

If you don’t practice speaking French, you’ll forget it — use it or lose it.

completely full or crowded to the point of congestion or blockage

The parking lot was chockablock with cars by noon.

to actually do what one claims or preaches, and not just talk about it

A true leader walks the talk.

to publicly identify and criticize individuals or organizations for engaging in inappropriate or unethical behavior in order to hold them accountable for their actions or punish them

The newspaper plans to name and shame corrupt officials in its next issue.