Here are some random - but common - language issues:1. resemblance
This word is usually used with the verb 'bear' (past tense: 'bore') + 'no':
The picture bore no resemblance to the person.
Also, 'there' can be used + 'between':
There was no resemblance between the picture and the person.
2. drop
A lot of common phrasal verbs used 'drop'. Here are some examples:
Can you drop the parcel off at my house? (= leave, deposit)
Would you like to drop by some time and we'll have a coffee? (= casual visit)
I'll drop you off at the station. (= give someone a lift)
When we're in Paris we always drop in on our friends the Sarkozis. (= unannounced visit)
3. given
'Given' is widely used as a linking word instead of 'because of' or 'thanks to':
Given the cut in the budget, we will have to reduce the number of missions.
'Given' + 'that' can also mean 'in the light of' or 'as':
Given the success of the programme so far, we are seeking to extend it in the coming year.
4. regardless of, irrespective of
This word is nearly always better than 'without regard for':
Participation in full-time education increased throughout the country, regardless of gender.
Similarly, 'irrespective' is better than 'without respect for':
Irrespective of country of origin, the city's inhabitants feel a strong sense of local pride.
5. economic, economical
'Economic' refers to the economy; 'economical' refers to economic functioning, usually of an object, machine or person:
Economic growth was strong in all sectors.
It is no longer economical for me to run two cars.
6. confirm, suggest, explain, propose
Remember that these verbs can't be followed by a direct personal pronoun such as 'me' or 'her'.
Instead, use 'to me' ('to her' etc) or a relative clause with 'that' or 'how':
Could you confirm that my tickets have been sent? (NOT 'confirm me')She suggested to me that I should start looking for a new job. (NOT 'suggested me')
I will explain to you how it works. (NOT 'explain you')
I propose (that) we meet again on Friday. (NOT 'propose you that')
7. Inversions
Usually adverbs go before or after a verb. For example, 'rarely' in these sentences:
I rarely go shopping.
I go shopping rarely.
But what happens if we put the adverb first in the sentence? Then we need to change the normal order of words (pronoun and auxiliary). We need an inversion. For example:
Rarely do I go shopping. (adverb + DO + I + verb)
Inversions are not possible with all adverbs. Here are some common examples. Complete the sentences:
Seldom have I seen......
Little did we know that the....
Under no circumstances should you.....
Not only do I love you but I also....
Never in all my life have I been so offended....
Note: Inversions like these are usually used to show emphasis.
8. also/as well
These mean the same, but take different positions in the sentence. Use 'as well' after the verb; use 'also' before the verb:
I'm also going to the party.
I'm going to the party as well.
Note: 'too' can replace 'as well' in the same position; but 'too' can also be used before the verb to show emphasis:
I too believe that the climate is changing. (= I agree with your opinion)
9. at all/devoid
Use 'at all' at the end of a phrase to mean 'nothing':
There was no vegetation at all.
Also here you could use 'whatsoever'.
'Devoid' is also used, but before the noun + OF:
The area was devoid of vegetation.
10. lack of
This phrase indicates a shortage or absence of resources:
Owing to a lack of funds, the project can't go ahead.
There was a general lack of support for the idea.
Note: 'Lack' can also be used as a verb:
The team lacks a start player.
