SOCIAL ENGLISH
A: I was looking for a birthday present for my nephew but I didn't have much luck. You don't have any bright ideas, do you?
B: You could just give him some money or a book token perhaps.
A: That thought occured to me, but then it looks like I haven't gone to any trouble.
C: I really hate my sister's new boyfriend, Greg. I went out for a meal with them last night and he really had a go at her for being late. He really got to her (upset)
D: You are being a bit hard on him. I'm sure he didn't mean any harm.
C: I'm not sure about that. Actually, I don't think I can bear the thought of ever having to spend time with him again.
D: Well, it's not you who is going out with him. I wouldn't lose any sleep over it.
E: How do you feel about Nina going to work in Tasmania?
F: Goodness, news travels fast! I didn't realise anyone else knew about it yet. Well, it came as a bit of a shock when she first told me. But, to be brutally honest, now I've had time to think about it, I'm finding it a bit of a welcome relief.
E: I know the feeling. She can be good fun but she's so sharp-tongued that I have to say I'll be glad to see the back of her.
G: Are you up for going to Sam's leaving party tonight? We're planning to give him a really good send-off.
H: I really don't think I can make it. I'm just too tired. The simple reason is I've been on the go all week and I haven't had a decent night's sleep for ages. I just can't face the thought of going out tonight.
G: Well, that's a feeble excuse, if ever there was one.
H: I know, and I feel terrible about it beause I really like him. I might invite him to my house for dinner next week instead. Would like to come too?
G: Sure, I'll be up for that. Give me a ring or drop me an email with the details.
From "English Collocations in Use - Advanced" by Cambridge University Press.
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