Collocations

to start something new and innovative that sets an example or leads to significant advancements in a particular field or industry

The tech startup aimed to break fresh ground in the industry by developing cutting-edge software solutions.

to concentrate or focus on a particular task or subject

Please pay attention during the lecture to understand the material.

to connect with someone, often by reaching out through various means such as phone calls, emails, or in-person meetings

He decided to make contact with his old friends from high school through social media.

to cause severe destruction, chaos, or disorder

The hurricane wreaked havoc along the coastline, causing massive flooding and destruction.

to create uncertainty or skepticism by questioning the truth or validity of something

His conflicting statements cast doubt on his innocence in the case.

to raise doubts about the validity, truthfulness, or reliability of something

Her sudden change of story called her reliability into question.

to express or bring attention to worries, doubts, or objections regarding a specific issue, situation, or decision

During the meeting, several team members raised concerns about the feasibility of the proposed project timeline.

the human eye unaided by any optical device, used for observing objects and details directly

The stars are visible to the naked eye on a clear night sky.

to establish the necessary foundation or preparation for a future project, plan, or idea

They spent months laying the groundwork for the new startup company.

to be understandable in a way that is reasonable

Her explanation didn't make sense to me; I couldn't understand why she made that decision.

to show respect or recognition to someone or something

The community gathered to pay tribute to the local hero with a heartfelt ceremony.

to use something such as power or influence that one has in order to achieve a particular result

in a state in which the correct musical sound is not played or sung

to assign or instruct someone to start working on a specific task or job

She set the volunteers to work in the community garden.

the process of testing a method, an idea, etc. in several ways to achieve the desired outcome

He learned to fix the machine through trial and error.

to form and express an opinion or decision about someone or something, often in a critical manner

It's not fair to pass judgment on someone without knowing their whole story.

to earn an amount of money that enables one to support oneself and pay for one's needs

She works as a freelance writer to make a living.

to ensure that one has the latest news concerning someone or something

I use a calendar to keep track of my appointments and deadlines.

extremely frightened to the point of being unable to move or react

She was scared stiff when she heard footsteps behind her in the dark.

to stay strong when faced with problems or criticism and ultimately surpass them

She always manages to rise above criticism and continues to work diligently on her goals.

to direct one's focus or concentration toward something specific

The loud noise in the distance caused everyone to turn their attention toward it.

to have the potential for future success or positive outcomes

The new medical treatment holds promise for patients with rare diseases.

to maintain financial stability or solvency

Despite the economic downturn, the company managed to keep afloat by cutting costs and diversifying its revenue streams.

to give support or credibility to a belief, theory, or statement

Her eyewitness account lends credence to the idea that there was foul play involved in the incident.

the form or means through which ideas, emotions, or artistic creativity are conveyed or communicated

Music has long been recognized as a universal medium of expression, transcending language and cultural barriers.

to come to a decision or judgment after considering evidence, arguments, or facts

After hours of deliberation, the jury reached a conclusion and delivered their verdict.

to make progress or advance in a significant way

The company has made strides in reducing its carbon footprint by implementing sustainable practices.

to attract or receive attention, often by means of effort, achievement, or significance

The new movie garnered attention for its innovative storytelling and stunning visuals.

to formally or officially provide a cautionary notice or advice regarding a potential danger, threat, or undesirable outcome

The weather service issued a warning about the approaching hurricane, urging residents to evacuate.

to increase knowledge or understanding about a particular issue, cause, or topic

The organization's campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health.

to enjoy the positive outcomes or advantages resulting from one's efforts or actions

After years of hard work, they finally began to reap the benefits of their successful business.

to experience a loss or failure in a competitive or confrontational situation

The team suffered defeat in the final match of the tournament.

to regard something with great respect, honor, or devotion

In their family, Sunday dinners are held sacred as a time for everyone to gather and connect.

to devise or create a scheme, often one that is secretive or mischievous

The thieves hatched a plan to rob the bank without getting caught.

to consider something appropriate or suitable according to one's own judgment

You can organize your workspace as you see fit.

to bring up a topic or issue for discussion or consideration

The discovery of the new evidence raised a question about the defendant's innocence.

a busy, noisy, and active environment or situation

The hustle and bustle of the city can be overwhelming for some people.

to gradually increase the strength, force, or speed of an activity or process

The campaign started slowly but began to build momentum as more volunteers joined.

to have a moral duty or be forced to do a particular thing, often due to legal reasons

After receiving such generous help from her neighbor, she felt obliged to return the favor by watching their pets while they were away.

to be filled with a specific quality, flavor, etc.

His writing is steeped in nostalgia, evoking memories of a bygone era.

to fulfill expectations or standards set by oneself or others

The athlete lived up to his reputation as a champion, delivering a stunning performance that captivated the audience.

to reach a decision, understanding, or conclusion after consideration or discussion

The scientists arrived at a consensus after months of research.

to cause injury, harm, or pain in a physical struggle or conflict

The attacker lunged forward with a knife, intending to draw blood.

used to show that something is available for someone to use whenever necessary

As a high-ranking official, he has numerous resources at his disposal to solve the problem.

to have a great amount of respect, admiration, or esteem for someone or something

She is held in high regard by her colleagues for her integrity and dedication.

to remain valid or accurate over time or in various situations

The fundamental principles of democracy continue to hold true, despite evolving social and political landscapes.

used to connect two related statements, showing that the same reasoning or principle applies to both

He enjoys spending time outdoors, and by the same token, he dislikes being cooped up indoors for too long.

used to indicate that someone is free to do something in whichever way they prefer

You can decorate your room as you please—it's your space.

to carry out someone's orders or commands, often without question or hesitation

As the CEO's assistant, he was always ready to do her bidding, no matter how demanding the task.

to act in a way that is overly familiar or inappropriate without permission or proper authority

He took liberties with the company's expense account, spending money on personal items without authorization.

used to indicate that something is provided or made possible by a specific person as a gesture of courtesy or generosity

The refreshments at the event were courtesy of the local bakery.