|
all set to
→ ready to (do something)
Example: The salesman at the Gap asked, "All set to check out?"
bells and whistles
→ product features which are attractive, but not essential for the product to function
Example: I just want a reliable car. I'm not looking for a lot of bells and whistles.
(to) break up
→ to lose a phone signal; to start losing a phone connection
Example: I can barely hear you. We're breaking up.
could use
→ need; have use for
Example: Your ties are all stained. You could use some new ones.
(the) fine print
→ the part of a contract with special rules and limitations. These are often "hidden" in small print, which is why you'll often hear: "Be sure to read the fine print."
Example: Julie didn't read the fine print of the fitness club contract carefully, and now she's stuck with a lifetime membership.
first rate
→ of the highest quality
Example: If you're looking for a restaurant, I recommend the Mediterranean Grill. The food there is first rate.
NOTE: You will also hear the term "second rate" to describe something that is of inferior quality or not very good.
(to) get into
→ to get involved with (often used in a negative sense, as when one has gotten involved with something that is now unpleasant or not wanted)
Example: My evening MBA program is more demanding than I thought it would be. What have I gotten into?
(to) get stuck with
→ to have something unwanted or undesireable that one cannot get rid of
Example: I'm in charge of cleaning the bathroom once a week at our dormitory. I don't know how I got stuck with this task!
hidden fees
→ extra charges that are not made clear from the beginning
Example: When you sign up for a new credit card, make sure there are no hidden fees.
in the market for
→ shopping for; interested in buying
Example: We're in the market for a flat-screen television.
no-frills
→ a simple and basic service or product
Example: If you want to fly cheaply, try a no-frills airline like Ryanair.
NOTE: "frills" are extra features or benefits
no strings attached
→ with no limits or special demands attached (to an offer)
Example: Kim got a full scholarship to Stanford, no strings attached.
one-time fee
→ a charge that you only pay one time
Example: To join FitOne Gym, I had to pay a one-time fee of $199, then a monthly membership fee of $49.
(to) run you
→ to cost you
Example: It's going to run you $600 for a one-year membership to Club Five Fitness.
(to) set up
→ to establish; to arrange; to put something new in place
Example: I set up direct deposit so that my paychecks are automatically deposited into my bank account.
(to) sign on the dotted line
→ to agree to or sign up for something ( often by signing a contract or agreement)
Example: I'm interested in joining the gym but before I sign on the dotted line, can you please explain the cancellation policy?
(to) throw in
→ to include for no additional fee
Example: If you sign up for a one-year gym membership today, we'll throw in a free set of towels.
|
