QB 10 September 20

Vocabulary: encouraging

means

a. valiant

b. determined

c. supportive

Idiom: Sit tight (also a phrasal verb)

means

a. Have good posture in a chair.

b. Don't do anything yet.

c. Get very close together.

Grammar: Which is correct?

a. I'm having a problem to get in touch with Mr Hargreaves.

b. I'm having a problem get in touch with Mr Hargreaves.

c. I'm having a problem getting in touch with Mr Hargreaves.

Vocabulary: encouraging (adjective)

means

c. supportive / giving someone support or confidence / positive / giving hope for future success / promising

Examples:

• Wow! That was a great race Jimmy. Everyone was so encouraging, pushing you on to the finish line.

• Thank you for your encouraging words. I'm going to apply for the job right away.

• These figures are very encouraging; it looks promising for the company's future.

Idiom: Sit tight (also a phrasal verb)

means

b. Don't do anything yet. / Wait (for further action).

Examples:

• We are sitting tight awaiting further instruction.

• Mary called to say her car had broken down, so I told her to sit tight until we get there.

• I'm eager to get on with this project, but I have to sit tight until the client gets back to me.

• Can I start the file upload? - No, sit tight until we get the OK from London.

Grammar: Which is correct?

c. I'm having a problem getting in touch with Mr Hargreaves.

Some expressions are followed by a gerund (-ing verb form) Other Examples:

• have difficulty - Do you have difficulty seeing without your glasses?

• have fun - Didn't we have some fun skiing in the mountains last year?

• have a good time - They had a good time dancing and singing.

• spend time - It's important to spend time doing something fun.