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Definition​

To 'let on' means to reveal a secret, disclose confidential information, or give a hint about something that was intended to be kept hidden or unknown. It often implies doing so unintentionally, carelessly, or without fully realizing the implications, rather than a deliberate act of betrayal. It can also mean to pretend or feign, especially when someone claims not to know something but actually does, but is giving subtle clues. The phrasal verb suggests a subtle or indirect disclosure, a slip of the tongue, or an inadvertent signal that betrays hidden knowledge or feelings, often leading to someone's surprise or the unraveling of a carefully guarded piece of information.

Examples​

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Definition​

To examine a collection of items, documents, or information, typically in a quick or systematic manner, often with the primary purpose of finding something specific, gaining a general overview, or checking for particular details. It implies a survey or scan, moving from one item to another in succession, rather than an exhaustive or in-depth study. It suggests a methodical but not necessarily slow process of observation or review. Less commonly, it can also mean to deliberately ignore someone or something, failing to acknowledge their presence.

Examples​

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Definition​

To 'lump together' is a phrasal verb that means to group different people or things together, often indiscriminately, without proper consideration for their individual characteristics, differences, or nuances. It implies a tendency to generalize or oversimplify by treating distinct entities as if they were identical or belonged to the same undifferentiated category. This action can sometimes be inaccurate, unfair, or lead to misunderstandings, as it disregards the specific traits, contexts, or identities that differentiate one element from another within the grouped whole. It suggests a lack of careful distinction or a broad-brush approach to categorization.

Examples​

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Definition​

The phrasal verb 'make out' is highly versatile and carries several distinct meanings depending on the context. It can mean to discern or perceive something, often with difficulty, such as text, sounds, or shapes that are unclear. Another common use is to understand or comprehend something, like a person's intentions or a complex situation. Informally, it is used to describe passionate kissing and cuddling, particularly between romantic partners. Additionally, 'make out' can mean to write or complete a document, like a check, a report, or a will. It can also describe how well someone is faring or succeeding in a particular situation or task, often implying managing or coping. Lastly, it can be used to imply claiming or pretending something, often falsely, or to represent something in a particular way.

Examples​

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Definition​

The phrasal verb "move over" carries both literal and figurative meanings, signifying a shift or displacement. Literally, it means to physically change one's position, usually by sliding or shifting sideways, in order to create space for another person or object. This is a common request or instruction in situations where people are seated or standing closely together, such as on a bench, in a car, or on public transport, to accommodate someone else or to simply gain more room. It can be used as a polite request ("Could you please move over?") or a more direct command ("Move over!").

Figuratively, "move over" implies relinquishing a position, role, dominance, or status to make way for someone or something new. This sense often suggests a transition or a generational shift, where established individuals, ideas, or technologies are replaced or overshadowed by newer ones. It can describe a veteran employee making space for a younger talent, an older technology being superseded by an innovative one, or an established paradigm giving way to a new one. In this context, it signifies not just physical space but also metaphorical 'room' in terms of influence, market share, or societal relevance.

Examples​

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Definition​

To opt out means to choose not to participate in something, to withdraw from an agreement, service, activity, or system, or to decline an option that is otherwise presented as standard or default. It implies a conscious and deliberate decision to remove oneself from a particular obligation, program, membership, or data collection process, often by actively indicating one's dissent or non-participation. This action typically involves rejecting an offer, declining to be included, or formally notifying an organization of one's wish to be excluded from future communications or services, contrasting with 'opting in' where one actively chooses to participate.

Examples​

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Definition​

To distribute something to each person in a group, often by handing it sequentially from one individual to the next until everyone has had a turn to see, use, consume, or read it. It implies a circular or linear movement through a group of people, ensuring that an item, information, or even a responsibility reaches everyone involved. This action is typically done with a common purpose, such as sharing, informing, or allowing participation.

Examples​

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Definition​

To 'pass over' primarily means to disregard, ignore, or omit someone or something, often in favor of another option. This can manifest in several ways:

1. Exclusion from selection or promotion: This is a very common usage, implying that an individual or entity was deliberately not chosen for an opportunity, a position, or a reward, despite potentially being qualified, while others were selected. It often carries a connotation of unfairness or being overlooked.
2. To skip or omit information: To deliberately or inadvertently leave out certain details, facts, or topics when discussing or presenting something.
3. To ignore or overlook a fault or transgression: To choose not to address or punish someone for a mistake or minor offense, often out of leniency or a desire to move on.
4. To go across or beyond something (less common/literal): While less frequent in its phrasal verb sense, it can literally mean to move from one side to another, or metaphorically to transcend a difficulty.

Examples​

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Definition​

To 'pay up' means to pay money that is due or owed, often implying a sense of obligation, a deadline being reached, or a demand being made. It typically refers to paying a full amount, or settling a debt after some delay or reluctance. The phrase often carries a connotation of completing a payment that one might have tried to avoid or postpone. It can be used in various contexts, from settling a personal debt to fulfilling a financial obligation in business or legal situations, and even playfully in a betting scenario. The 'up' emphasizes the completion or finality of the payment, often implying that the payment is made in full or that the time for delay is over.

Examples​

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Definition​

Pedalling away is a phrasal verb that describes the action of cycling a bicycle with considerable effort, speed, or determination, often with a specific purpose such as escaping a situation, leaving a location rapidly, making quick progress towards a destination, or simply enjoying the vigorous motion. It implies a continuous and forceful motion of the pedals, propelling the bicycle forward with notable energy and intensity. This action can be driven by a desire for speed, a need to distance oneself from something or someone, a commitment to exercise, or the simple enjoyment of swift, sustained movement. The intensity of 'pedalling away' suggests a focused and sustained effort from the cyclist, often indicating urgency or strong purpose.

Examples​