HUSTLE – PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

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near and dear to one's heart expr.

Definition

important, familiar

Example

I was a history major in college. History is very near and dear to my heart.

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aggressive adj.

Definition

rough, not gentle; forceful

Example

Jan is a good soccer player. He's very aggressive, and makes lots of steals.

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hustle v.

Definition

move quickly, be aggressive

Example

If we're going to make it on time, we need to hustle.

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Senator n.

Definition

lawmaker in the US national government

Example

After running the company for 10 years, she went to Washington and became a Senator.

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community organizer n.

Definition

someone who helps a neighborhood grow and improve

Example

After the hurricane, New Orleans needed a lot of leadership from community organizers.

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black adj.

Definition

having dark brown skin; of African ancestry

Example

There are a lot of black people in Atlanta, Georgia.

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innovate v.

Definition

invent, create, improve

Example

I don't just want to do what people before me have done. I want to innovate.

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out-do v.

Definition

do more or better than someone else

Example

I always out-do all my classmates on exams.

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win the future expr.

Definition

have success, be the best

Example

We have long-term thinking here. At this company, we work to win the future.

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science fair n.

Definition

a competition for science students

Example

Her project about global warming won the local science fair.

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TRAFFIC LAWS

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point n.

Definition

purpose; reason

Example

The point of exercise is to maintain good health.

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run v.

Definition

go through; continue driving even though there's a red light or a stop sign

Example

If you get caught running a red light, you'll have to pay a fine.

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slow down v.

Definition

reduce driving speed; go slower

Example

You're going way too fast! Slow down!

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keep order v.

Definition

maintain order; maintain control or sense; avert chaos

Example

Teachers spend a lot of time trying to keep order in the classroom.

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abroad n.

Definition

out of the country

Example

Studying abroad is very fun because you can meet people from other places.

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record n.

Definition

official file of your history

Example

I have a totally clean driving record. I've never gotten a ticket.

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pulled over expr.

Definition

stopped by the police

Example

The police pulled me over yesterday because my car headlight was out.

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lame adj.

Definition

not cool; stupid

Example

It is so lame that I missed my friend's band play.

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busted v.

Definition

caught or discovered

Example

I got busted for drinking beer before I was 21 years old. A cop saw me and my friends drinking at a park.

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POO SHOE

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mine field n.

Definition

land filled with explosives; dangerous area

Example

The soldiers had to go 80 kilometers out of their way to avoid a mine field.

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old fashioned expr.

Definition

out dated; old and no longer done, used or made

Example

I prefer to use an old fashioned phone. I don't like using a mobile phone.

I prefer to use an old fashioned phone. I don't like using a mobile phone.

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hypocritical adj.

Definition

fake; pretended morality; contradictory

Example

Mr. Owens is so hypocritical. He teaches health class, but he also smokes and drinks all day!

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God forbid expr.

Definition

hope that something does not happen

Example

Oscar is in the army. God forbid anything bad should happen to him!

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we've all been there expr.

Definition

this happens to everyone at some point

Example

I told my sister not to worry about her broken heart. We've all been there.

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poop n.

Definition

feces, waste, excriment

Example

The toilet's broken! There's still poop in it!

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a bit much expr.

Definition

excessive; over the top; too much

Example

She offered to drive me all the way to Santa Fe even though it was so far out of the way. I told her that was a bit much and it was just fine to drop me off here.

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cane v.

Definition

beat with a stick

Example

Believe it or not, theives are still caned in some countries.

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elegant adj.

Definition

beautiful and high quality, splendid

Example

That is an elegant dress you're wearing. It makes you look really beautiful.

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dispensers n.

Definition

a container from which objects may easily be removed one by one

Example

I like to eat candy throughout the day so I always carry a Pez dispenser.

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PHONE DATE

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dough n.

Definition

a slang term used to refer to money.

Example

I'd love to go wine tasting, but I'm short on dough, and can't afford it!

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matinee n.

Definition

a movie or play that's shown during the daytime for a decreased ticket price

Example

When we were kids, my sister and I used to save our allowance to go see a matinee.

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mellow adj.

Definition

relaxing, calming

Example

Let's have a mellow evening and just sit by the fire.

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rowdy adj.

Definition

wild, bordering on out of control

Example

My brother and his friends are too rowdy for me when we spend time together.

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probably n.

Definition

to be expected; without a doubt

Example

You probably don't want to hear this, but I can't go on vacation next week.

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major adj.

Definition

important, meaningful, significant

Example

I have a major test coming up in math class. I can't fail it!

I have a major test coming up in math class. I can't fail it!

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up to expr.

Definition

What someone has been doing lately.

Example

I haven't seen Jerome for ages, I wonder what he is up to?

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cuz expr.

Definition

explanatory phrase. Short for "because." Using this phrase is not using proper grammer.

Example

I didn't want to go to the farm cuz I am afraid of horses.

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what's up expr.

Definition

A common greeting that means, "What is going on in your life?" or "What is happening?" Can also refer to a particular situation.

Example

Ben: "Hi Sara!"

Sara: "Hey, what's up?"

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making plans n.

Definition

the process of working together with others to plan an event.

Example

My girlfriends and I are making plans to throw a big party in a few weeks.

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indication n.

Definition

a hint, clue, or something that gives you an idea of what is going on

Example

The way that Samantha refused to look at Fred was a good indication that she was angry at him.

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date n.

Definition

a romantic event or outing.

Example

My favorite thing to do on a date is go to the theater.

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typical n.

Definition

Normal, standard, commonplace, average

Example

N Sync is a typical boy band.

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WE WANT YOU

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signed on the dotted line v.

Definition

formally and legally agreed or committed

Example

Once you sign on the dotted line, you can't change your mind about being in the army.

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war n.

Definition

armed conflict

Example

Religion and territory are two of the main reasons people fight wars.

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cafeteria n.

Definition

a place (usually at work or school) where you can buy and eat many types of food

Example

When I was in school I always brought my own lunch instead of eating in the cafeteria.

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nab v.

Definition

grabbed, snared, pulled in

Example

The police finally nabbed the robber last night after looking for him for months.

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enlist v.

Definition

get the support of, get the aid of, get one to help

Example

We need to enlist some really smart teammates if we're going to win the history competition.

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recruiter n.

Definition

someone who encourages people to do something

Example

Some college basketball teams have recruiters that go all over the world looking for the best players.

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enticement n.

Definition

a reward; something to make a deal more appealing

Example

The car dealership is throwing in a TV with the purchase of any cars as an enticement.

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trick v.

Definition

joke, prank, or manipulation

Example

Marshall played a trick on me and convinced me to give him a bunch of money I didn't owe him. Jerk.

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voluntary adj.

Definition

by choice, out of free will

Example

Some people will be organ donors when they die. It's a voluntary thing. They put a sticker on your ID.

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disturbed adj.

Definition

bothered, annoyed, disgusted, made to feel uncomfortable

Example

I was really disturbed after seeing the movie 'House of a 1,000 Corpses.'

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BLACK HISTORY MONTH

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predominantly adv.

Definition

mostly; refers to the majority

Example

Germany is predominantly inhabited by Germans, but lots of Turks live there too.

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heritage n.

Definition

cultural history or background

Example

My heritage is French, German and Bohemian.

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surrounding expr.

Definition

about,in relation to

Example

The circumstances surrounding his death were mysterious.

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assassinated v.

Definition

murdered by surprise, usually applied to famous people

Example

The people rioted when the king was assassinated.

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black adj.

Definition

having dark brown skin; of African ancestry

Example

There are a lot of black people in Atlanta, Georgia.

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recognition n.

Definition

credit; honor

Example

I think Mike deserves some recognition for all the work he did to make this event happen.

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partake v.

Definition

participate; benefit from; have some

Example

I would like to partake of your pecan pie.

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outer reaches n.

Definition

edges of the city or country

Example

The people get more religious the further you go into the outer reaches.

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civil rights movement n.

Definition

the struggle for racial equality

Example

Martin Luther King was one of the greatest leaders in the civil rights movement.

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take note v.

Definition

notice, pay attention to

Example

Please take note: the water will be shut off tomorrow for repairs.

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JOB INTERVIEW PART I

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suffice v.

Definition

to meet or satisfy a need : be sufficient

Example

There is no need to write a long letter, a brief note will suffice.

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background n.

Definition

history; experience; upbringing, including race, class other social factors

Example

Jenny has a dance background, which makes her a natural choice for a dance partner.

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Web technologies n.

Definition

computer languages and technology related to the Web or the Internet.

Example

Jason studied Computer Science in school and now he works as a Software Engineer for a company specializing in Web technologies.

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backend n.

Definition

technology related to making what you see on the Internet work the right way.

Example

I enjoy surfing the Web, but have no understanding of the backend technology that makes it work!

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compliment n.

Definition

saying something nice about someone; an admiring remark, a form of admiration

Example

One of the best movie compliments is in "Jerry Maguire," when Tom Cruise says, "You complete me!"

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cool adj.

Definition

good, fun, nice

Example

It was really cool to see Coldplay live in concert. They're my favorite band!

That is a cool jacket! I really like it!

Your new apartment is cool! I really like it.

Your new apartment is cool! I really like it.

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laid back expr.

Definition

relaxed, not formal, very casual, non-confrontational

Example

Mitch is so laid back. I have never seen him get angry!

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corporate culture n.

Definition

the attitude and spirit that permeate different areas of a corporation or organization.

Example

Dan wanted to work for XYZ Law Firm, but the corporate culture was far too aggressive for his style.

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tone n.

Definition

the mood or feeling of an event or situation

Example

The wonderful opening speech by the company president set the festive tone of the Christmas party.

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speak freely expr.

Definition

to speak without worrying about what you are saying

Example

I hope you don't mind if I speak freely. It is difficult for me to hide my feelings.

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at ease expr.

Definition

to feel comfortable; to not be worried

Example

In order to make the new students feel at ease, the staff hosts a large welcome party.

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casually adv.

Definition

not formal, friendly, familiar

Example

Stephanie is casually letting Fred know that she would like to date him.

Fred was not comfortable working in a casual office environment, so he didn't work at our company for very long.

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up to speed expr.

Definition

to become familiar with; to learn and understand basic information that will give you a better understanding of something

Example

After Luke started his new job, it took him over a month to get up to speed.

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get down to business expr.

Definition

start dealing with important matters

Example

I enjoyed working at the lemondade stand for the Summer, but it is time to get down to business and find a better job!

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clear adj.

Definition

obvious, easily understood

Example

After Randy got in the car accident, it became clear to Elizabeth that she didn't want to live without him.

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job interview n.

Definition

a meeting between a job applicant and an employer to decide if the applicant will get a job

Example

Sam was not surprised when he received the job offer from ABC Company, as his job interview was outstanding.

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QUITE A RACE

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rad expr.

Definition

cool; good, exciting

Example

Those boots are totally rad. You look great!

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spoke to me expr.

Definition

made me think or feel a certain way, touched me

Example

Her speech about smoking really spoke to me. I think I'm going to quit!

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neck and neck expr.

Definition

tied; equally good; too close to pick which is better

Example

As the runners rounded the last turn, they were neck and neck.

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liberal adj.

Definition

politically forward thinking and non-traditional

Example

Right-wing christians and liberal activists clashed in front of the abortion clinic yesterday.

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conservative adj.

Definition

supporting tradition rather than change in political views; politically cautious

Example

George W. Bush is a conservative president.

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candidate n.

Definition

a person who wants to be elected, a person who people can vote for

Example

I don't think Gore and Bush are good candidates. They're both idiots!

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resonates v.

Definition

makes one feel something, impacts one's thoughts and emotions

Example

The architect's amazing design for the museum resonates with people who love art.

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insane about expr.

Definition

in love with; very passionate about

Example

I am insane about baseball. I wait all year for the season to start and watch every game I can.

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generational adj.

Definition

depending on age

Example

There's usually a generational gap in skills with technology.

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pimpin' v.

Definition

slang for promoting or advertising

Example

I thought I was watching a new TV show, but it turned out to be an ad pimpin' soap.

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SLEEPING IN

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on top of it expr.

Definition

active, aware, paying attention, doing a good job

Example

I was worried it would be too much responsibility, but he's been really on top of it.

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early riser n.

Definition

one who gets up early in the morning

Example

He's always been an early riser. He enjoys seeing the sun rise.

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have the jump v.

Definition

to have a head start or advantage

Example

We're going to leave tonight so we have the jump on the driving.

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hold down v.

Definition

keep, maintain

Example

You hold down the fort, we'll be back with supplies.

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set my own hours v.

Definition

to choose when you go to work

Example

Since she is self employed, she sets her own hours and doesn't have to work at any particular time.

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sleeping in v.

Definition

to sleep through part of the day

Example

Since she usually has to work at 6 am, on the weekends she sleeps in.

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9-5 n.

Definition

a job that begins at 9 am and ends at 5 pm, the standard times for working

Example

He wasn't cut out for the 9-5 lifestyle, so after a few weeks, he quit and hit the road.

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groove n.

Definition

mentality; state of mind; style; mood

Example

I was in such a circus groove all weekend because I went to this really cool party with people dressed up, cool marching band music and dancers.

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groggy adj.

Definition

still sleepy after just awakening

Example

When she came to the door at 8 am, he answered but he was very groggy.

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ahead of the game expr.

Definition

prepared; getting work done early

Example

Max studied hard every night because he wanted to be ahead of the game in class.

Sarah baked a cake during the day so she'd be ahead of the game when she had to start preparing for her dinner party.

Those don't have to be done until tomorrow, so since you've already started, you're ahead of the game!

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GETTING AROUND

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consistently adj.

Definition

regularly, repeatedly, dependably

Example

The Yankees are consistently one of the best baseball teams in the league.

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spread out v.

Definition

wide, cover a lot of space

Example

The wind came through the window and blew my papers everywhere. Now everything I have is spread out over my room.

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public transportation system n.

Definition

buses, subways, trolleys, trams

Example

The public transportation system in Washington D.C. is really great! You can get anywhere you need to go using the Metro or the busses.

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hassle n.

Definition

problem; burden

Example

It's a hassle to drive all the way there in traffic, so let's just take a taxi.

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environment n.

Definition

the air, water and land on Earth

Example

If Al Gore had his way, the environment would be the most important issue in the minds of Americans.

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get around expr.

Definition

travel; move from place to place

Example

When possible, I use my bike to get around.

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transit n.

Definition

transportation; means of getting from place to place

Example

I think subways are the best form of public transit because they're unaffected by traffic.

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infrastructure n.

Definition

the facilities and services that serve a country

Example

A country's infrastructure is often much improved a few decades after it's destroyed by a war.

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stateside expr.

Definition

in the United States

Example

It's nearly impossible to get truly authentic Indian food stateside.

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sad to say expr.

Definition

an unfortunate thing, depressing

Example

It's sad to say, but Nirvana might have been the last great rock n' roll band.

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