Words & Collocations

a few hiccups

a few problems

·         There are still a few hiccups but they will be sorted out by the time we launch the product

abstract

connected with ideas and thoughts rather than actual physical objects

·         Many artists present us with works which require us to explore abstract

absurd

ridiculous, unbelievable, unreasonable

   ·         Don't be absurd! You can't possible offer that!

acerbic

critical in a cruel but clever way

·     the tone of the report is quite acerbic.

    to achieve

   an alternative phrase to use for 'can' for IELTS writing - succeed

   ·         IELTS students achieve success when they don't give up and focus their study to get the band they want.

   acid rain

  rain which is contaminated with acid from pollution

·         Acid rain causes the erosion of historical buildings and corrosion of steel structures.

acid test

a way of checking if something works

·          the real acid test  will be when we take this to market.

acknowledge

recognise that something exists or is important

  ·         Firstly governments must acknowledge  that the problem exists then measures can be put in place tо solve it.

   

across the board

refers to everyone or everything involved

• We can offer a 10% increase in commission across the board.

to act out

perform or demonstrate something

  ·         I want you all to act out your appraisal scenarios in the training session this afternoon.