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English Idiomatic Dialogs
English Idiomatic Dialogs
It was
Everything went like clockwork !!! an awfully long flight.
Lindsay We have work to do, but if you need a day to
recover from jet lag, we can start tomorrow.
Mary I've just popped in to thank you very much for
Michelle I can start immediately. Fill me in on the task.
organizing last weekend's trip to the seaside for the old
folk.
Lindsay OK. I need you to brief me on our new item
Julia That's very kind of you. They all seemed to enjoy it. PUR038 before we make a presentation to
Topcraft Co. The deadline is next Monday. You
Mary They certainly did. Everything went like clockwork, in get to pick your own team.
fact I don't think you could have done it better.
Michelle I'll get right on it.
Julia I'm not sure about that, there were one or two things
that could have been improved. Lindsay Good. Keep me posted.
Mary In a perfect world perhaps, but as far as I'm concerned
it was a great success. So thank you again.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Fill sb in - to give someone extra or missing information
If you say that something happens like clockwork you mean that it
happens without any problems or delays, or happens regularly. Example : I filled her in on the latest gossip.
Daniel I heard that you performed very well in this program. You
are going to be one pillar of our company in the near Dan It's quitting time. I'm gonna clock out now. See you, guys.
future.
Tony Wait, Dan. Did you work on all the papers and documents
Megan It's my duty as an employee to carry it out. I receive help
we need for tomorrow's brainstorm meeting ?
from several departments while the whole matter was on
the verge of failure. Most importantly, we didn't lose Dan Not yet. But I can finish those tomorrow.
heart, but believed we could succeed at last.
Tony No way ! We need those materials and numbers first thing in
Daniel Never give up, then we can defeat our rivals, no matter
the morning. You got to finish them tonight.
how strong they are. Stick to your faith, we can overcome
adversity successfully. Good job, Megan ! Dan Ugh, I am through working overtime !
Megan Thanks for your praise. I will believe in myself as I did this Tony This is business. We have a deadline to meet. And you wont'
time and keep on my work. Moreover, I realized be the only one under pressure. We've all got to crank out
teamwork is the key to success. this project tonight.
Explanation : Explanation :
On the verge of - Close to I am through working overtime - I don't want to work overtime
anymore.
Explanation :
Example : Why would she disappear the day before her holiday? It
just doesn't add up. Cut-throat competition - Destructive competition, not worrying
about any harm caused
Sam No problem. Renee and I will see to it. Renee But I don't think I'm qualified yet. I'm not much of a
talker.
Michelle Then that concludes our meeting today. Let's roll. Michelle I know this might be a rather giant step for you, but you
have to grow into this. You don't want to do the chores
or run errands for somebody all your life, do you ? Think
Explanation : about that.
Renee Maybe you're right. OK. I'll take this job and do my best
to see the work through.
Rundown - A detailed report
Michelle I'm happy for you. Welcome to the real world. It's not
perfect, but you're gonna love it.
Example : Here's a rundown on/of the activities of our ten biggest
competitors.
Explanation :
Example : With the extra resources, the scheme now seems Explanation :
feasible. Sell like hot cakes - to be bought quickly and in large numbers
Example : His new video game is apparently selling like hot cakes.
This item is sought-after !!!
Renee Besides, as you can see from this pie chart, our model Look it up !!!
PUR038 is very competitive on the market. If you'll refer
to the figures in your handouts, you'll see that this item is Michelle We're now discussing the promotion plan on CB series.
very sought-after and there is a big market for it. Everyone of us will get a new assignment today. Before
we decide on how to market our products, I want to
Harbor Please give us some good reasons why we should hear your thoughts about this.
purchase this item.
Dan We need sponsors. I can look it up on the computer files
Renee One good thing about this item is its high technology. And and find out our previous sponsors. I'll visit them and try
its high tech leads to durability. It can save time and to win them around.
money, which I know is your company goal. Therefore,
this product is just right for your needs. we highly Michelle Good idea. Dan. Then you will be in charge of this. Any
recommend this item for your company. other thoughts ?
Harbor Your presentation is very impressive. We do have great Renee I volunteer to visit all of our suppliers and see if they are
interest in this item. But we'd like to try it out before we interested to support us. If our promotion succeeds,
place an order for it. they will also benefit by it.
Renee That's for certain, Mr. Harbor. Here is a sample for your Michelle Great. And this will be your assignment. I'm looking
company. And we look forward to receiving your order in forward to a favorable result. OK. We will be discussing
the near future. how to market CB series after I got your feedback. Let's
roll !
Explanation : Dan Hey, you're talking to him, Renee. Don't worry. I'll help
you out.
Sam Seems you've got it all planned out. Now I can finally stop Michelle Good. And it's time to discuss how we should promote
worrying and get back to work our key items. There's plenty of information in your
Max Why were you worried about my work. handouts. Now speak your minds.
Sam We definitely need to choose Internet as a means of
Sam Because I was worried about your bad cold affecting your job marketing. It's the current trend.
performance. It seems like I was worried for nothing.
Michelle That's right. We can create a promotion page with
attractive banners, and so our company website can stay
unchanged but we can still attract buyers.
Explanation :
Sam Then the decisions are made. Let's do that.
Plan out - to think about and decide what you are going to do or
how you are going to do something
Example : I've planned out the day - train to town, some shopping,
then a slap-up meal and a show. Explanation :
I've lucked out !!! Speak your mind - To say what you think about something very
directly
Dan I've won over three sponsors for our promotion plan.
They've promised to support our plan no matter how we
would market our items. I think I've lucked out ! Example : He's certainly not afraid to speak his mind.
Renee Oh, I envy you ! I'm out of luck. No suppliers so far would
like to support our plan.
I am on top of that !!!
Dan How come ? What's the problem ?
Michelle Renee, did you talk to our suppliers about our promotion
Renee Beats me. Maybe it's because I'm not much of a talker. I details ?
tried so hard to chat with them about anything I could
Renee Yes, I did. I've asked them to insert fliers into the
think of, but I just couldn't be enthusiastic about
shipments to our customers. That way the customers
gossiping.
who never bought our CB series can also receive the
Dan I see what you mean. You used to work with papers and information and know about our promotional products.
documents. you are not so used to dealing with our
Michelle Do you need someone to help you send messages to
suppliers. You've still got a lot to learn about how to be a
customers by email ?
sales representative.
Renee No thanks. That's my job. I am on top of that.
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 4
Michelle Oh, and did you discuss the exhibitions we talked about Secretary Mr. Martin's office. May I help you ?
last night with our channel ?
Renee Oh, hi, Miss Wood. This is Renee. How are you ? I'm
Renee Of course I did. And they've promised to help us with
calling again to discuss the exhibitions with Mr. Martin.
that
Is he available ?
Michelle Wow, I'm impressed. Renee. You've improved a lot as a
Secretary Sorry, Renee, Mr. Martin can't come to the phone. He's
sales representative.
all tied up in the staff meeting. But he said he would be
free tomorrow morning and you two could discuss it
over brunch. What do you say ?
Explanation :
Renee Perfect ! Thanks so much for your help. I owe you one.
Let's do lunch sometime. My treat.
On top of sth - To be able to control a situation or deal with it Secretary That's great. We'll talk later then.
Example : We spread our papers out on the table. Keep an eye on - To watch or looking after something
He's all tied up !!! Example : Will you keep your eye on my suitcase while I go to get
the tickets ?
Renee Hello, this is Renee Chang calling from Alpha Co. Please
I was stuck in traffic !!!
get me the extension 41.
Lindsay We do have a source who can produce this item, don't Lindsay But what ? What's her concern ?
we ?
Michelle She thinks both our pricing and minimum order quantity
Michelle Right. She wants us to provide pricing and samples for are too high. She needs to know if we can requote the
their approval ASAP. price.
Lindsay Does she mention what size and color she requires ? Lindsay If we could requote the price, could she accept the current
MOQ ? [MOQ] = minimum order quantity
Michelle Yes. She requires size "10x12x1" inches in blue, red and
brown Michelle She didn't confirm, but she said she would try her best to
convince her boss.
Lindsay Send her our pricing today and tell her we can send
samples no later than this Friday. Lindsay OK, fair enough. Tell her we'll send out the revised pricing
by today.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Max I'm here to talk to you about your new purchase order. Long-standing support !!!
Max As you know, there is a global shortage of plastic raw Max Good afternoon, Ms. Reiner. I'm calling to tell you the
materials. We have tried our best to offer the best price good news.
for you. However, our supplier insists on increasing MOQ
Reiner Oh, is this regarding the price.
to 1,000 dozen or they will have problem processing your
order. Max You're right. After negotiating with our supplier, we now
Reiner 1,000 dozen ? That's a large order. I don't think we can can offer you $15 per dozen.
accept this. Reiner That's perfectly wonderful ! Thanks for trying so hard.
Max Please understand that we offer you the very best price. Please increase the quantity to meet the requested MOQ,
And, we are willing to separate the whole batch into three which I believe is 1,000 dozen. [MOQ= Minimum Order
shipments to benefits your company. Quantity]
Reiner Hmm. Sounds fair. But I need to think it over. I'll let you Max I'll get on it immediately. Thank you for your long-standing
know by this Friday. support.
Explanation :
Long-standing - Having existed for a long time
Example : I'll think it over and give you an answer next week.
Production lead time !!!
She's driving a hard bargain !!!
Moore I'd like to know what would be your production lead time
Max Ms. Reiner said she will accept 1,000 dozen on the for a new order of 10K forks.
condition that we lower the price to $15 per dozen. Sam We can prepare 10K forks for you in 2 weeks.
Michelle She's driving a hard bargain. How much per dozen now ?
Moore Could you please check if you can ship earlier ? This is top
Max urgent. This order is for one of our customers.
The current price is $18 per dozen.
Sam Let me check the production schedule .. I believe we can
Michelle Will we make any money on this order if we agree to her ship the good by air freight in 10 days if we work overtime
price ? three days in a row.
Max Definitely. Not a large profit, though. Moore That would be great ! I will be sending you a new purchase
order in no time.
Michelle What do you think we should do ?
Sam Thank you. We will proceed with your order as soon as we
Max I think we should make it $15. After all, she is one of our receive it.
best customers and she's been loyal to us all these years.
Michelle OK. Make it to $15. The price is for Ms. Reiner only. Got to
fill her in on the good news. Explanation :
Explanation :
Explanation :
Explanation :
Get in contact with !!! Blush - To become pink in the face, usually from embarrassment
Sam I'll have the catalogue of our products ready and will Max I've also got the information about move-in and move
prepare fliers for the show. out hours and the show hours.
Renee Dan and I will work on the design of our booth. Michelle What about the exhibition space ? Do we know where to
set up our booth ?
Michelle Great ! You guys are excellent. Oh, I forgot to mention
that one of you will be going to Boston with me. I'll let Max According to John, you know, our temp sales
you know my decision next week. Now that's all for representative in Boston, the exhibition space is very
today. Let's roll. spacious. And Renee and Dan have completed the
design of the booth. They will keep you updated.
Example : Get in contact with the management if you should need Explanation :
any help.
Example : We'll update you on this news story throughout the day.
Michelle Designers, how are booth design going ?
Filled him in !!!
Renee Oh, Michelle ! Don't call me a designer. You're making
me blush.
Dan Sam I've prepared five cartons of our catalogues and flier's
But I like that title. You can call me a designer, Michelle.
ready for the show.
Michelle Haha. OK, joking aside, how are the things going ? Michelle I believe you've made sure that four lines of products are
printed on the catalogues and fliers, right ?
Renee We've designed the booth in three sizes because we're
not sure how large our space will be. Here you are. Sam Of course. You can count on me !
Michelle These are excellent. You two must have put a lot of Michelle Thank you, Sam. By the way, when is the application
thoughts into this. deadline ? Max said he'd like to send out the form as soon
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 9
as possible. Dan Yes, Ma'am. Let's go. Maybe we can grab a bite on the way
to the fair. I'm hungry.
Sam The deadline is this Friday. I've filled him in on the product
Michelle What are you hungry for ?
lines and exhibition cost as well. he can send the
application form anytime now if you okay it.
Dan A hot dog, the works, would be great.
Michelle Good. Tell him to proceed immediately. Let me know if he
needs copies of my I.D. Michelle Ah, here comes the shuttle buss. Come on, let's move.
Sam Oh, one more thing, the fair attendants should wear the Dan We are not far from the fair. The map says it's the first
badge. And our banners and signs can only be displayed in turning on the right after the library.
and around our own booth, not in aisles.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Max The man point of our show is to promote our latest Michelle What do you think about TG Co. next to our booth ?
products into the global market. So I think the
demonstration is the most important part of our show. Dan I must say I'm quite impressed by their approach to
business.
Renee I agree with Max. I'm convinced that our products will
sell pretty well if we can draw buyers' attention to our Michelle I feel the same way. Their way of doing business is quite
demonstrations. they will be amazed at what they see. aggressive.
Sam After all, our products are the results of the latest Dan But I don't think they'll go very far if they don't improve
technology. They are high-tech items. the quality of their products.
Michelle Good point. Then demonstrations will be the highlight of Michelle So the bottom line is quality.
our show. By the way, Dan, I'll confirm our daily
schedule during the fair later today. And you need to
book our flights first thing in the morning.
Explanation :
Dan Sure. I'll see to it.
Explanation :
Grab a bite !!! Salesperson Hello, Ma'am. Would you like to take a look at our
products ? They are high-tech items.
Michelle Hmm, they look interesting. Can I have a copy of your
Michelle The show is tomorrow. But today we need to check our brochure ?
booth an make sure all our products are in good condition.
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 10
Salesperson Sure. Do you have a minute ? Why don't you have a Thomas Sure Sit down. What is it ?
seat and let me show you how to operate this item ?
Kevin I would like to discuss with you about my job.
Michelle Ok. Go ahead
Thomas Is there any problem ?
Salesperson You see, if you press this red button, the helmet
becomes an umbrella. And it's not heavy at all. You Kevin No, not at all. Well, I've been working really hard during
can try it yourself. the probation period and I would like to know if I'm
Michelle It is very light. How amazing ! qualified for this position and if there's any possibility for
a salary raise.
Thomas I know you've been working really hard these three
Explanation : months and you have certain abilities that are required
by our company. Furthermore, I can see that you do fit in
with the company. I will sure put your request into
High-tech - Very modern looking or made with modern materials consideration.
Our lead time is 14 days !!! Fit in with - Be suited to, belong
Customer When will I receive the goods ? Example : I just don't fit in with this group.
Explanation :
Example : This video will give you the insights on how to reduce
the lead time of building a website.
Have a word with - Speak with, discuss with
Kevin Good morning, Mr. Thomas. Do you have time now ? I am flattered by your praise !!!
Be/feel flattered - To feel very pleased and proud because Cesar Can I bring my wife and daughter along ? I'm afraid that I
someone has said good things about you or has made you feel will feel bored.
important
Explanation :
Example : They were flattered to be invited to dinner by the
mayor.
Workaholic - A person who works a lot of the time and finds it
difficult not to work
Well begun is half done !!!
Thomas OK. I expect to see a new and energetic team. Rachel Starting today, Simon will be assisting Albert with his new
project.
Explanation :
Rachel As you all know, our client, Royal Company Limited, is
planning to hold a product release press conference next
month. They're impressed with our proposal and decided Keep track of - To keep a record of something, or make certain
that we shall organize the activity. that you know or remember what has happened
Sally That's terrific ! We did everything we can on this proposal,
it's lucky that we didn't waste our breath on the
presentation. Example : His job is to keep track of all the shipments going out to
customers.
Simon Albert, congratulations.
You reap what you sow - Everything that you do has Stanley I can totally understand. Still, I hope you can keep up the
repercussions. It comes back to you one way or another. good work. Where there's a will, there's a way.
Example : Watch the way you live your life because you reap what Explanation :
you sow.
Example : No, you paid for dinner last time - this is my treat.
Stanley Good morning, everyone. Let's start our meeting now.
We shall discuss about the annual sales target of our
Rachel Albert, we're having a tight schedule here. Please give Raymond No, you're not incapable. It's not about you, I found the
them a call instantly. we need to get the brochures done job tiresome and my income unstable. Not to mention, I
and sent to our client on Friday No delay. Ask the printing dislike having to fawn on clients for contracts.
company to try their best and solve the problem. Stanley I am sorry to hear that. Are you sure you don't want to
give this a second thought ?
Raymond Yes. There's no need to reconsider.
Explanation :
Example : I am on a tight schedule. Can you help me out with this Make up your mind - To decide
project ?
Raymond Not for now. They said that they would love to accept
Nancy Stanley, I've got something to tell you.
our deal if the price was negotiable.
Raymond They don't have enough budget, we can find someone Nancy I just came back from Sunrise Limited, and they decided
else. I don't like to work with people who bargains over to sign a one-year contract with us. Furthermore, I have
prices. talked Manfield Corporation into extending the contract.
Stanley Raymond, I think you're a good salesman but you Stanley Excellent ! I told you so. Where there's a will, there is a
haven't show any passion with your job recently. You way.
give up easily when someone turns you down. I believe Nancy Yes. I'm glad that I listen to your advice.
if you show enough aggressiveness to your clients, they
would have a second thought. Stanley I'm pleased with your ability and strength.
Raymond OK. I will pay them a visit tomorrow.
Explanation :
Explanation :
It's no bother at all !!! Example : They passed inspection with flying colors.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Bother - trouble or difficulty
Polly Wow, the restaurant is awesome. I can hardly recall the It's very temperamental !!!
last time I actually dined in a restaurant.
Nancy I couldn't agree more. We worked like hell for the past
few months, yet, I am happy with the result. We achieved Billie Why has the photocopier stopped ?
our goals with flying colors.
Lesley Oh, it's probably because the paper has jammed.
Stanley Everyone, may I have your attention, please ? First, I You'll have to open the door and look inside the
would like to thank all of you for devoting yourself to the machine to check.
job and achieving the company's goal and I would also like
Billie Oh yes, I can see where a sheet of paper has got
to show my great appreciation to you. You guys make an
stuck.
outstanding team. You're the best. Give yourself a round
of applause. Lesley You need to follow the instructions printed inside the
door to remove it and restart the machine.
Peter An outstanding leader makes an outstanding team. Your
strong ambition and executive power have made an Billie That wasn't too difficult. Well, I'll restart the machine
influence on us. and hope for the best.
Stanley Thank you very much. at last, I have good news for you. Lesley You'll need a lot of hope for that machine. It's very
All of you will be rewarded an extra bonus. Now, let' toast temperamental and really needs replacing.
and celebrate our glory !
Explanation :
Explanation :
Heather Make sure that it's straight and within the A4 lines
Roy My copies have started coming out a bit faint. marked on the glass. Then lower the lid.
Sadie Let me have a look. Yes they should be a bit darker Ginny There, done that. Now what ?
than that.
Heather Enter the number of copies you want using these
Roy How can I do that on this machine ? button and then press the big green button to start.
Sadie You need to increase the contrast by pressing this Ginny That's a breeze !
button here. You've got a choice of five levels. Try the
third one. You'll need to press the button three times.
Roy The copies look fine now, just what the doctor ordered. Explanation :
Thanks a lot.
Sadie Don't mention it.
Face down - In a position so that the face is down
A contrast is a great difference between two or more things which Terry That's annoying. The copies are suddenly coming out
is clear when you compare them. very faint.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Explanation :
Explanation :
Foreigner That man at the bar got really annoyed with me just Brendon Why, what's on ?
now.
Kenny It's darts night. Our pub's team is playing against the
Friend Yes, I could see him having a go at you. What was the
team from the " Lord Nelson " across the park. I'm in the
reason ?
team and we need all the support we can get.
Foreigner I wanted to get drinks for us and he said I had jumped
One-off - Something that happens or is made or done only once Are you a regular ?
Example : Will you be doing more talks in the future or was that Stranger Ah, great taste ! They certainly know how to keep beer
just a one-off ? 1 here.
Stranger Yes, the publican's very fussy about how it's stored and
2 at what temperature.
Let's go to my local !!!
Stranger And the variety of beers seems to be much greater
1 than in your average pub.
Jeff Well, we've got through a pile of work and it's past Stranger That's true. He's very keen on beers from small,
opening time. Let's go for a pint. 2 independent breweries and we've got quite a few
Doug around here.
Good idea, where shall we go ?
Stranger
Jeff Let's go to my local, it's just around the corner. Are you a regular ?
1
Doug I think I must have passed it on the way here. Is it the " Stranger Oh yes, I've been coming here once or twice a week for
Rose and Crown " ? 2 years. Can't keep me away.
Jeff That's it. It's a really old place with lots of atmosphere.
Doug Explanation :
Great stuff, lead on MacDuff.
Local - In British English, your local is a pub which is near where Example : She has become a regular visitor to Houghton Hall.
you live and where you often go for a drink.
Myrtle Lulu's hen party last night was really wild, wasn't it ? Alf What's the time ?
May Yes, look at the horrible bags under our eyes. Ted It's just gone 7.
Myrtle I really had a bit too much to drink. No wonder I feel so Alf Well, what a silly question !
rough.
Ted What do you mean ?
May Yes, you were really tipsy by the end.
Alf Well he's down the pub of course. He's there every
Myrtle I think I'd better keep off alcohol for a bit. night.
Dave This is a great pub for football, they've got such a big
Jock Have you enjoyed the evening ?
screen.
Tracy Oh yes, you've taken me to places I never knew Greg Yes, it's almost like actually being at the match.
existed.
Dave Would you like another drink ?
Jock Well you're pretty new here and I've been working in
this area for almost five years, so I know most of the
Greg I certainly could, but stay put, it's my round.
good places by now.
Tracy And this is one of the nicest pubs I've been in.
Jock Explanation :
It is very attractive. Fancy another ?
Example : What do you fancy doing, anyway ? Clive Not really, there is much more direct democracy there.
Henry Oh sure, but Ollie's a rather expensive drinking Referendum - If a country holds a referendum on a particular
companion. policy, they ask the people to vote on the policy and show
whether or not they agree with it.
Vince Why's that ?
Explanation :
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 19
Won by a landslide !!!
Ronnie I think the result of that election was really unfair.
Fay You look pretty depressed, what's the matter ? Quentin Why do you say that ?
Craig I've just come from our party's headquarters. Everyone Ronnie Well, there were three candidates and the total votes
there feels the same. the two losers got were more than the winning
Fay You must have lost the election then ? candidate received.
Quentin But he did get more votes than either of them got
Craig We did, and after all that hard work, canvassing for
individually.
days on end.
Ronnie Maybe, but this first-past-the-post voting system is
Fay Is it really that bad ? not genuinely democratic because someone can win
without getting an absolute majority of the votes.
Craig It is. The other side won by a landslide. It's our worst
defeat in ten years. Quentin Well, a proportional representation system would
solve that problem.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Luke I'm a bit more optimistic about the election than I was.
Jerry This is one of the closest elections I can remember.
Matt I'm surprised, all the opinion polls are predicting that
Natalie Yes, that's true whichever part of the country you look your party is going to lose.
at.
Luke That may be true, but I think they may have got it
Jerry In the west, the candidates have equal support in the wrong ?
polls.
Matt What makes you say that ?
Natalie And in the rest of the country there is very little to
separate them. Luke Well, according to the latest exit polls, our party is
doing far better than expected.
Jerry This election is clearly going to be a real cliff-hanger.
Matt Perhaps you have been picking up a lot of last-minute
Natalie Yes, we won't know the result until all the votes have support.
been counted.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Digby Under our first-past-the-post electoral system that's Leila It's not really much of a recommendation for
true. democracy.
Cast - When you cast your vote in an election, you vote. Example : Campaigning is expected to start hotting up today.
Example : About ninety-five percent of those who cast their votes They heckled him throughout his speech !!!
approve the new constitution.
I can't be bothered !!! Jamie That was one of the rowdiest election meetings I've
ever been to.
Alasdair I'm not surprised, I could hear the noise from some
Lenore It's election day today, so don't forget to vote.
distance away. Why was it so rowdy ?
Abby I can't be bothered, what difference will it make ? The Jamie A section of the crowd was very hostile to the
parties are all the same. candidate and they heckled him throughout his
Lenore It took a long struggle to get everyone the right to vote. speech.
You should exercise your democratic right, otherwise one Alasdair What sort of things were they shouting at him ?
day you may find it's been taken away.
Jamie They were attacking his support for the government's
Abby Oh, well all right. What time does the polling station
employment policies.
close tonight ?
Alasdair They were probably dissatisfied or unemployed.
Lenore At 10 pm
Explanation :
Heckle - If people in an audience heckle public speakers or
performers, they interrupt them, for example by making rude
Can't be bothered - If you say that you can't be bothered to do remarks.
something, you mean that you are not going to do it because you
think it is unnecessary or because you are too lazy.
Example : They heckled him and interrupted his address with
angry questions.
Things are hotting up !!!
Leila Yes and with only two weeks to go things are really Merry Who are you going to vote for ?
hotting up.
Sandra I haven't decided yet. How about you ?
Tim That's true and it's one of the dirtiest election
campaigns I can remember.
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 21
Merry I'm going to vote for Shirley Day. Gary Well the results of the latest opinion polls are in this
morning's newspapers.
Sandra What's her platform ? Theo What do they say ?
Merry She is promising to introduce much more family-
Gary They show that our party is ahead in all of them by at
friendly policies if she is elected and that's the most
least 7 percent, so we're pretty confident about the
important thing for me.
election result.
Sandra If that's the case, I might vote for her too.
Explanation :
Explanation :
Example : The Socialist Party won a landslide victory on a Example : Children in small classes were 1.5 months ahead in
nationalist platform. reading and 2.5 months ahead in mathematics.
Vera Oh yes ! Most voters want to discuss the election Evan What's their origin ?
issues face to face with a party representative and to
Harley They say that miners' wives used to make them as lunch
express their own views.
for their husbands to eat in the mine.
Dan Democracy in action !
Explanation :
Explanation :
Meryl Yes, it's only a quarter to ten and we've been at it for
Our party is ahead !!!
almost four hours.
Gemma Time for elevenses before we die of hunger and thirst.
Theo How has the election been going so far ?
Meryl Great idea. I'll pop out and get some doughnuts.
Gary Very well as far as our party is concerned.
Gemma And I'll put the kettle on.
Theo How can you be sure ?
Sean That's the one. It's very traditional and I just love the Hector I'm not surprised. A lot of expeditions stock up on that
atmosphere. before they go.
Olive And it's such a warm and pleasant evening that we'll be
able to dine alfresco on the riverside terrace.
Explanation :
Sean Yes, that would be lovely. And with the sky so clear we'll
be dining by moonlight. How romantic !
Explanation :
Example : During the emergency, people stocked up on essential
items like candles, medicines and tins of food.
Alfresco - An alfresco activity, especially a meal, is one that takes
place in the open air. I love your tea cozy !!!
Take me back !!! Corey May I pour you another cup of tea ?
Stella Thank you, that's very kind. I must say I love your tea
Jilly This takes me back, I haven't been to the seaside since cozy. The design is very attractive.
I was a child. Corey I'm glad you like it. It's one of many my mother made.
Nicola I haven't been for ages either. Stella Well, she was clearly very skilled with the needle.
Jilly Tell you what, let's go on the pier and get some cotton
Corey Yes, she was; needlework was her favorite hobby.
candy.
Nicola But that's for kids and it's pure sugar; it'll ruin your
figure.
Explanation :
Jilly I don't care, it was one of my favorite things to have
when we came to the seaside.
Nicola Well, if you're going to relive your childhood, I'm going Cozy - A cozy is a soft cover which you put over a teapot or a
to have to do the same. boiled egg to keep it warm
Laura Thank you for inviting me to tea, it's really good of you.
Take sb back - If you say that something takes you back, you
mean that it reminds you of a period of your past life and makes
Laura No doubt that's why your tea tastes so good. Just what the doctor ordered - Exactly what is wanted or needed.
Melanie Thank you. They do say that tea always tastes better
from real porcelain.
Example : Ooh thank you, a nice cup of tea. Just what the doctor
ordered.
Explanation :
Sean Elisabeth No, not at all. Afternoon tea means tea, perhaps
What's so special about that ?
sandwiches and definitely cakes around 4.
Marie Well, it's having real clotted cream on your scones with
Anne What's high tea, then ?
home-made strawberry jam to go with your tea.
Sean Elisabeth That's a proper meal, often with meat or fish, but also
What's clotted cream ?
of course with tea to drink.
Marie It's thickest and most delicious cream there is.
Explanation : -
Explanation : -
High tea - ( British ) A fairly substantial meal that includes tea and
is served in the late afternoon or early evening.
Clotted cream - A thick cream made primarily in England by
heating milk until a layer of cream forms on its surface that is then
cooled and skimmed off.
Explanation :
Example : The dance is accompanied by an original score by Henry
Torgue.
Documentary - A documentary is a television or radio program, or
a film , which shows real events or provides factual information
about a particular subject A movie crew was shooting on location !!!
Example : ...... a TV documentary on homelessness. Lennie You'll never guess what was going on in our town last
week.
Freda Go on, surprise me.
Some love interest !!!
Lennie A movie crew was shooting on location in the town
square.
Sharon I didn't really enjoy that movie at all.
Freda Really ? Why did they choose your town ?
Gareth Why not ? I thought it was really exciting with lots of
action. Lennie Because the square's full of old buildings which were a
perfect background for the kind of historical movie
Sharon Typical man, that's just what you would like. they were making.
Gareth Well what would you have wanted ? Freda I'd love to have been there. I've never seen a movie
crew in action before.
Sharon Some love interest, not just car chases and fights.
Explanation : On location - A place away from a studio where all or part of a film
or a television show is recorded
Vera Good ?
Zara I haven't enjoyed a movie so much in years.
Carl Oh yes. It was about a family who lived in the late Qing
Abigail Yes, it really was something special.
dynasty.
Zara It had a great story and the acting was absolutely Vera I know you're learning Chinese. Did you understand
fantastic. everything ?
Abigail The score was fantastic too. It really added to the Carl No, not really. They spoke too fast for me to catch
action. much, so I had to rely on the subtitles.
Zara Yes it was really good music and it had such a haunting Vera Yes, they're always very helpful when you're watching
theme. a foreign-language movie.
Subtitles - Subtitles are the printed translation that you can read Flashback - In a film, novel, or play, a flashback to the past is a
at the bottom of the screen when you are watching a foreign film. scene that returns to events in the past.
Example : The dialogue is in Spanish, with English subtitles. Example : There is even a flashback to the murder itself.
Violence is good box office !!! There'll be just a few trailers !!!
Marie That was a really violent movie. Walt Thank goodness the ads are over. They go on for far
too long.
Jean It certainly was. There seemed to be one killing about
Ingo Yes, there'll be just a few trailers and then the movie
every ten minutes.
will start.
Marie I know. I began to get a bit sick of it long before the
Walt I don't mind trailers, at least they're not trying to sell
end.
you anything.
Jean Why are so many movies so full of violence ? Ingo Of course, they are, they're trying to sell you the latest
Marie movies.
It's because violence is good box office I suppose.
Walt Well, I suppose so, but they're a lot more exciting than
Jean You must be right. Well the next movie I go to see will the ads.
be romantic comedy.
Ingo If you ask me, they're sometimes a lot more exciting
than the movies themselves.
Explanation :
Explanation :
1) Box office - The box office in a theater, cinema, or concert hall
is the place where the tickets are sold.
A trailer for a film or television program is a set of short extracts
which are shown to advertise it.
2) Box office - When people talk about the box office, they are
referring to the degree of success of a film or play in terms of the
number of people who go to watch it or the amount of money it Example : .... a misleadingly violent trailer for the film.
makes.
I got them through my friend !!! Fiona Too gloomy for me I'm afraid. I like comedies.
Jim I'll say. They're in the front row of the balcony, right in They were all dubbed into German !!!
the middle.
Jack Perhaps, but I've still got a long way to go before I can Explanation :
be really satisfied with my game.
Shawn What aspect of your game do you think needs
improving most ? If a film or soundtrack is dubbed, a different sound track is added
with actors speaking a translation of the dialogue.
Jack Oh, without doubt my short game. I seem to drive
reasonably well but I tend to drop shots around the
green. Example : It was dubbed into Spanish for Mexican audiences.
The camera zoomed in on the girl's face !!! I want to see the credits !!!
Rosalind I've just seen an absolutely wonderful movie, so Vivienne Come on, let's go, the movie's over.
romantic.
Fiona Zelda No, wait, I want to see the credits right through to the
What was it about ?
end.
Rosalind It was a very sad love story. Vivenne Why, they list everybody including the studio cleaner.
It'll take forever.
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 27
Zelda My sister's in the movie business and she worked on Becky Well, we'd all like to congratulate you on your
this movie. achievement.
Vivenne Really, what does she do ? Joe I'm just glad to be able to contribute to a good cause.
Zelda She's a make-up artist. Look, there she is, that's her
name just coming up now. My mother will be so
pleased when I tell her. Explanation :
Explanation :
Example : You are the tops, Linda !
Joe Almost $2,500. People were very encouraging and Ryan Do you really think so ?
generous.
Explanation :
Taste - A person's ability to judge and appreciate what is good and
suitable, especially in art, beauty, style and manners.
If you say that someone or something stands head and shoulders
above other people or things you mean that they are a lot better
Example : Barbara has good taste in clothes.
than them.
Example : I am very impressed by your magazine. It is head and You've excelled yourself !!!
shoulders above any other.
Greg Yes, I have, that's what I mainly want to talk about. Al Don't be suspicious, I really meant it.
Heather I wasn't sure whether it was exactly the kind of thing Isabel Well, they always say that the way to a man's heart is
you wanted. through his stomach.
Greg Oh, have no worries. It's precisely what we need and
your work is absolutely first-class.
Explanation :
Heather Well, I must say that's a great relief.
If you describe something or someone as first-class, you mean Example : You have excelled yourself with this feat of courage.
that they are excellent and of the highest quality.
Kathleen Have you finished my accounts yet ? I sent you all the
ou have such good taste !!! paperwork three weeks ago.
Damien Well, almost but I've still got some work to do on your
investments and your real estate.
Tracy So this is your new apartment.
Kathleen What's the problem ?
Charlene Yes, I moved in a month ago.
Damien There's no problem, but you sold some shares during
Tracy Well, I have to say it looks fantastic. Did you decorate the financial year at quite a profit and you also made a
and furnish it yourself. lot of money on the apartment you sold. Those were
capital gains.
Charlene Yes, I did. It took me quite a lot of time.
Kathleen So what you are trying to do ?
Tracy Well, I must say you have such good taste in interior
decor. It could have been done by a professional Damien Well I'm working on how I can minimize the capital
designer. gains tax you're going to have to pay on the money
Capital gains are the profits that you make when you buy Explanation :
something and then sell it again at a higher price.
' To the hilt ' and ' up to the hilt ' mean to the maximum extent
Example : Gains from the sale of privately-owned cars and possible or as fully as possible
household goods are exempt from capital gains tax.
Explanation :
Explanation :
If someone does something like there is/was no tomorrow, they
do it very fast, in large amounts and without thinking carefully
If something such as costs are cut to the bone, they are reduced
to an absolute minimum.
Example : After his win on the football pools, he began spending
money like there was no tomorrow.
Example : Profit margins have been slashed to the bone in an
attempt to keep turnover moving.
Say through the nose !!!
Sandy I'm a bit worried about our son and his wife. Martin We did. We traveled all over the country and saw
some fantastic sights.
Desmond Is their marriage going rocky ?
Teddy What was the accommodation like ?
Sandy No, not at all. But they've just bought a large
apartment nearer the city center and it cost them an Martin Very good everywhere we went. And the people were
absolute fortune. They've both got to be working to very friendly.
afford the mortgage payments. Teddy Sounds perfect.
Desmond So they're mortgaged up to the hilt.
Martin It was, almost. But I had to make a couple of
international phone calls from one of the hotels and I
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 30
really had to pay through the nose for those. Marlene She certainly is. She needs to learn how to budget.
Explanation : Explanation :
If you say that you paid through the nose for something, you are If you blow a large amount of money, you spend it quickly on
emphasizing that you had to pay what you consider too high a luxuries.
price for it.
If you say that someone makes a mint, you mean that they make
Explanation : a very large amount of money.
If you shell out for something, you spend a lot of money on it. Example : He made a mint in the computer industry.
Example : Do you expect me to shell out to gratify your vanity ? Throwing good money after bad !!!
She blows all her money !!! Rudy We're having such problems with our database
software.
If you say that someone is throwing money after bad, you are
Explanation :
critical of them for trying to improve a bad situation by spending
more money on it, instead of doing more thoughtful of practical
things to improve it.
If you refer to a situation as zero-sum game, you mean that if one
person gains an advantage from it, someone else involved must
suffer an equivalent disadvantage.
Example : Do you know that he has gambled away the $5,000 you
lent him last time ? If you lend him any more money, you are
throwing good money after bad.
Example : Mahjong is a zero-sum game : others have to lose
money for you to win money.
He really played hardball !!!
Play hardball - Be firm and determined in order to get what you Explanation :
want
Jules Did you get what you wanted ? A sense of what their bottom line is !!!
Explanation :
Explanation :
Vernon So you want to book ten people in for three nights, 1st
Haggle over every penny of the deal !!!
to 3rd December ?
Elizabeth That's right, what would your rate be for a group of
Virginia Did you get that fashion order from Fashion that size ?
International ? Vernon Eighty dollars per person per night.
Alice Yes, but it was really hard work.
Elizabeth That's only 5% less than your individual rate. Give me
Virginia I'm not surprised. They're known to be a tough bunch 10% off and I'll confirm the booking.
to do business with. Vernon A 5% reduction for groups is company policy. I can't
Alice They certainly are. Their buyer haggled over every offer any more than that.
penny of the deal. Elizabeth So that's your final offer ?
Virginia That's why the company's so profitable.
Vernon Yes.
Alice Too right. Still their order will give us work for the next
three months. Elizabeth Let me think about it.
Explanation : Explanation :
If you haggle, you argue about something before reaching an 10% off - 10% less than the original price
agreement, especially about the cost of something that you are
buying.
Example : There's 10% off this week on all winter coats.
Jason We'll give you the order if you can guarantee delivery Kate I can see; you look really exhausted. What was the
in three weeks. problem ?
Keith If you confirm the order today, we'll deliver in two Paul They were very inflexible and just stuck to their
weeks. We'll have to because we have an urgent order original position.
that we must start working on in two weeks' time.
Kate So there was no give-and-take at all.
Jason If you can deliver in two weeks, that would give us a
big advantage over our competitors. Paul No, none at all, because they knew they were in a very
strong position.
Keith We definitely can, our workers are very experienced
and we have the latest equipment. Kate No wonder you had such a hard time.
Jason Looks like we've got a win-win situation here. You've
got our order.
If you beat down a person who is selling you something, you force
them to accept a lower price for it than they wanted to get.
If you say that something requires give and take, you mean that
people must compromise for it to be successful.
Example : Beat down the seller to the price that suits you.
Gordon You don't look too pleased. What happened ? James Well, first of all I've been responsible for a ten per cent
increase in sales since I joined the company.
Chris They gave us a really tough time and forced us to
Manager That may be true, but the market in general has been
agree to sell at the lowest possible price.
expanding in that period.
Gordon Couldn't you have done better than that if you'd tried
James I've also improved my department's efficiency and cut
harder ?
its costs by seven per cent.
Chris Not really, they used pressure tactics. Manager OK, OK, what are you looking for ?
Gordon What do you mean ? James I want an annual salary that at least matches the going
Chris They said that if we didn't agree to their terms they rate for my job, which is currently $80,000. That means
would take all their existing business with us away. So a raise of $ 7,500.
we really had no choice.
Explanation :
Explanation :
The going rate or the going salary is the usual amount of money
Tactics are the methods that you choose to use in order to that you expect to pay or receive for something.
achieve what you want in a particular situation.
Example : That's about half the going price on world oil markets.
Example : He pressed on in the hope that a few others would join
him. The tactic paid off.
We'll meet you halfway !!!
Harry Not really. They beat us down as far as they could. Mr. Hawkins Five hundred dollars is considerably more than the
market rate and we're not going to pay more than
Guy That's tough. Where do you go from here ? that.
Mr.
Harry We'll have to reduce our costs a lot to make any real OK, we'll meet you halfway : $475
Armstrong
profit on the deal.
Mr. Hawkins We can live with that. You've got a deal.
Explanation :
If you meet someone halfway, you accept some of the points they
are making so that you can come to an agreement with them. Example : Put your cards on the table and be very clear about
your complaints.
You drive a hard bargain !!! Griff Barry's just got the most fantastic job.
Explanation : Explanation :
If people drive a hard bargain, they argue with determination in Headhunted - If someone who works for a particular company is
order to achieve a deal which is favorable to themselves. headhunted, they leave that company because another company
has approached them and offered them another job with better
pay and higher status.
Example : Ukraine was always gong to drive a hard bargain
before signing the treaty.
Example : He was headhunted by Barkers last October to build an
advertising team .........
Put your cards on the table !!!
Gavin We've considered all the realistic ones. It's time to put Chairman What is it that particularly struck you about him ?
your cards on the table and make your position clear.
Panel The ability to think on his feet. He dealt with the most
Jake At this point I think our side had better take some time member 2 difficult and unexpected questions we threw at him
out so that we can discuss among ourselves. very coolly and intelligently.
Chairman That's certainly true and it's not a very common
quality.
Explanation :
Example : I'd never heard about the firm before, so I had to think
on my feet. Chairman Well we have interviewed everyone on the shortlist.
What did you think of them ?
Panel I thought they were variable. The second and fourth
I've had to do a case interview !!!
member 1 were very strong candidates, the third was average
and the first relatively weak.
Wayne That's the first job interview I've had where I've had to Chairman That was also my impression. To be fair to the first, he
do a case interview. had rather less experience than the others.
Derek What did it involve ? Panel The last candidate seemed outstanding to me. She
member 2 answered all our questions very confidently, and was
Wayne Well the interviewing panel described a business very well qualified.
problem their company had, asked me to analyze it
Chairman On the other hand the second candidate was also well
and suggest how I would go about solving it.
qualified and had rather more experience.
Derek That must have been really tough. Panel It's going to be very difficult to decide which of them is
Wayne It certainly was, but happily I've got a business studies member 1 going to get the job.
degree and that included case studies.
Derek So at least you had some sort of preparation for the
Explanation :
ordeal.
Case interview - An interview that requires the interviewee to Example : He is outstanding at tennis and golf
give detailed information about how to solve a business problem.
Irene How did your job interview go ? Rory You look relieved, what have you been doing ?
Simon It was actually pretty tough because it wasn't just an Barnaby I've just been interviewed for a reporter's job on the
interview, we had to do an in-tray exercise as well. evening paper.
Irene Is that where they give you an in-tray full of Rory How did it go ? Did they go through your resume in
documents like memos, letters, requests and ask you detail ?
to prioritize and deal with them in a fixed time ?
Barnaby Yes they did, especially where I'd worked for their main
Simon Yes, that's it. We only had 30 minutes to sort it all out competitor.
and decide on what to do and in what order.
Rory What's your overall feeling about how it went ?
Irene Did you manage to deal with everything ?
Barnaby Well I think I made a good impression. But I'll only
Simon Not quite. I still had a few things left when the time know for sure when they write to me to give me their
ran out. decision.
Explanation : Explanation :
Explanation :
If someone or something makes an impression, they have a
strong effect on people or a situation.
A portfolio is a set of pictures by someone, or photographs of
examples of their work, which they use when entering
Example : He has told me his plans and he's made a good competition or applying for work.
impression on me ...
Explanation :
Explanation :
Joseph We're having a really big battle inside our party at the
http://www.englishdaily626.com/conversation.php?075 moment.
Beth Yes, I've seen the newspaper headlines. It seems to have
That's one of my favorites !!! been heated.
Joseph It's always the same when we are trying to write the
party's manifesto for the next general election.
Jeff Well, it's almost lunch time, what would you like to eat
? Beth What were the arguments about ?
Danny Oh, I'd like some really typical city food. Joseph One of the main ones is about whether we are going to
promise lower taxes in the manifesto if we win the
Jeff Well, for that we'll have to go to the east side of town. election.
Danny What sort of food can you get there ? Beth That's always one of the most controversial topics.
Scot He's not normally so generous. What's going on ? Marion What ! I can't believe it. You don't look a day over
forty.
Kyle He's not, but he's trying to get elected to the club
committee. The elections are next week at the AGM.
She sounds really star-struck !!!
Scot So that's why he's splashing his money around. I'd call
that attempted bribery.
Kyle I wouldn't worry. He's not that popular and it'll take Jack My teenage sister really gets on my nerves at times.
more than a few drinks to buy members' votes.
Bill Why's that ? Does she spend hours making up in the
bathroom ?
You could do just as well !!!
Jack No, it's not that, she just keeps going on and on about
how wonderful Leonardo Di Caprio is.
Jack Those watercolors are really beautiful. Bill Well, a lot of girls really go for him.
Caroline I'm glad you like them. I painted them last year. Jack But she's got dozens of his picture all over her
bedroom wall and she watches his movies over and
Jack You painted them yourself ? I can't believe it, they're so over again on her DVD player.
good.
Bill She sounds really star-struck.
Caroline They're not that good, but I'm glad you like them.
Jack That's putting it mildly.
Jack You're so talented, I wish I had your skill.
Caroline You should try your hand yourself, I'm sure you could
Go in for a pie and a pint !!!
do just as well if not better.
Idiomatic Dialogs (Upper-intermediate) page 38
John What do you mean ?
Leslie Punting's thirsty work and it's almost one o'clock. Vera Well, it was largely your guidance that made it
possible.
Alastair Talk about thirsty, I'm pretty hungry as well.
John Well, I'm sure that wasn't the most important thing.
Leslie Do you see what I see ?
Vera Yes, it was, and I can't praise the quality of your advice
Alastair You mean that pub just on the next bend in the river ? too highly.
Leslie Right first time. Are you thinking what I'm thinking ?
Alastair Yes, let's tie up there and go in for a pie and a pint.
A light supper wouldn't do us any harm !!!
Brian Rinse out the teapot with very hot water to make it Robbie Such as ?
hot.
Gayle I could make a cheese and potato salad.
Frank Then boil the kettle ?
Robbie That'll do nicely.
Brian That's right. Then put two or three teaspoons of tea
into the teapot, take the kettle to the pot and pour the
boiling water over the tea.
Frank Can you drink it straight away ?
Brian No, you have to let the teapot stand for a few minutes
and then the tea will be ready to drink.
Waiter I'm sorry you can't do that. The dish is too hot.
I can't praise the quality of your advice too highly !!! Una Really ? Why is that ? He's such a successful
businessman.
Henry Well, he's gone as far as he wants to go in business and
John Did you get the result you were hoping for ?
is looking for a new challenge.
Vera Yes we did, and largely thanks to you. Una What is he aiming for ?
Brenda What's that above the bar ? It looks like a long glass
Change hands !!! trumpet with a glass bulb at the end.
Jim It's a yard of ale, that's to say it's a bit less than a meter
long.
Vernon This pub's just changed hands you know.
Brenda What's it for ?
Perry Is that right ? Who's got it now ?
Jim It's for a traditional beer-drinking competition.
Vernon The publican wanted to retire so he sold it to one of
the big breweries. Brenda Who wins ?
Perry ( Rings bell ). Last orders, please ! Jim The person who can drink a pint of beer from it fastest
without spilling a drop. It's very difficult. The record in
Vernon Oh no, the saddest words a man will ever hear. One
this pub is 9 seconds.
more before we go ?
Perry Yes please, but be careful you don't get trampled in the You must be starving !!!
rush.
Hanna You've been working on that file for almost five hours
without a break. You must be starving.
Explanation :
Lenore Yes, I am a bit peckish, especially as I didn't have
anything for breakfast.
Change hands - To go from one owner to another Hanna Well the only place you can get food around here at
this time of day is the " Dog and Duck " across the
road.
Example : That Italian restaurant is nowhere near as good since it
changed hands. Lenore What's the food like there ?
Hanna It's not bad. They don't do hot food but their
ploughman's lunch is really tasty. The bread and
Draught or bottled ? cheese are always really fresh and they make their
own pickle.
Lenore Sounds good. I'll shoot over straight away. Care to join
Laurie I've worked up a bit of a thirst after all that walking and me ?
this looks like a really nice pub. Shall we go in ?
Marge Quentin This document is A3 size and I've got to make three A3-
I'd like a half of lager please.
sized copies.
Laurie Draught or bottled ? Vicky That's no problem on this photocopier as it's got an A3
paper tray.
Marge Bottled please. I prefer German beer and they don't
seem to have any on draught. Quentin I've put the document face down on the glass, what do
I do next ?
Vicky Open the door and check that there's paper in the A3
Explanation : paper tray.
Quentin Yes, it's almost full.
Draught ( draft in American English ) - Beer that is on draught is
Vicky Close the door, select the A3 paper tray on the control
kept in and served from a barrel rather than a bottle.
panel and then press the green button to start copying.
Gordon I've just been reading through your last project report.
James I hope you didn't find too much wrong with it.
Dawn When you've copied the first one, put the other one
face down on the glass, press the button marked 50%
and you'll get a half-size copy.