Posted by Hey guys!
Everybody knows the importance of learning some phrasal verbs, idioms and colloquial expressions, especially when you live in a foreign country. We always learn a lot of them by communicating with native speakers or watching movies and series. In this post, you learn some idioms to communicate in a more natural way when speaking English in a foreign country.
* with all (due) respect to – used as a polite formula when you are disagreeing with someone.
With all due respect, sir, I think we could look at this situation differently.
* pay your respect to sb – show your respect to sb by visiting them, going to their funeral, attending a memorial service, etc.
We went to pay our respects to our new managers.
* pay tribute to sb – say or do sth to show respect and admiration for sb.
Fans across the world are paying tribute to the pop star following his sudden death.
* beyond the call of duty – performed with greater courage or effort than is usual or expected.
We want to reward emergency workers who go beyond the call of duty to help others.
* to whom it may concern – a personal reference used at the beginning of a notice, document or email when it is not addressed to a particular person.
The best way to start this email would be “To whom it may concern” as it’s not addressed to a specific person.
* by virtue of sth – because of sth / as a result of sth.
We finished the climb to the top of the mountain by virtue of our will and determination.
* in accordance with sth – in a way that follows a rule or sb’s wishes.
In accordance with your request, I am sending a copy of my book.
* in good faith – believing that what you are doing is right.
Both parties acted in good faith.
* of your own free will – freely and willingly and not in response to force.
I accepted the deal of my own free will.
* reserve the right to do sth – make use of a formal right to do sth if necessary.
The ministry said it reserved the right to take whatever action necessary.
* at sb’s discretion – according to what sb decides or wishes to do.
You can cancel the service at your (own) discretion.
* at your earliest convenience – at the earliest suitable time for you.
I would appreciate having this confirmation at your earliest convenience to allow us to proceed further.
I hope you learned some new phrasal verbs and idioms today, see you next time!
Source: Idioms and Phrasal Verbs – Advanced / Ruth Gairns and Stuart Redman – Oxford
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