|
allergic reaction
→ sensitivity to things that come into contact with the body ( causing problems such as rashes, trouble breathing, coughing, etc.)
Example: Irene had an allergic reaction to some peanuts. Her throat swelled up and she could barely breathe.
any number of things
→ one of many possibilities
Example: "What's causing my ankles to swell?" - "It could be any number of things."
better safe than sorry
→ it's good to be extra careful (to avoid trouble or disaster)
Example: Check the airline's website to make sure the flight hasn't been canceled. Better safe than sorry.
(to) break out (in)
→ to appear; to occur (often suddenly)
Example: Shortly after taking the medication, Karen broke out in hives.
NOTE: This is often used to describe acne that can suddenly appear on the face, especially among teenagers. Example: Emily was horrified when her face broke out just before the dance.
(to) clear up
→ to get better; to go away (when talking about problems with the skin, such as a rash or acne)
Example: Fortunately, Tyler's face cleared up before the school dance.
(to) drive one nuts
→ to annoy someone very much
Example: It drives me nuts when people talk during movies.
for starters
→ to name just one problem or example; for example
Example: What's wrong with Ted? For starters, his back is killing him.
(to) hit the nail on the head
→ to be right; to guess correctly
Example: The doctor hit the nail on the head when she said I needed to start exercising.
(to) nip (this, that or it) in the bud
→ to stop something before it gets any worse
Example: Your son has started to spend every night surfing the Web instead of doing his homework? You need to nip that in the bud.
on something
→ taking medication or prescription drugs
Example: Nancy is on Claritin for her allergies.
NOTE: This can also mean that one is taking illegal drugs. Example: That guy on the street corner is in bad shape. I wonder what he's on.
over-the-counter
→ available on the pharmacy shelf instead of by prescription
Example: Your headaches are getting worse? Maybe you should start taking a prescription drug instead of over-the-counter medications.
NOTE: sometimes you will see the abbreviation: OTC
|
