all in all: considering everything Examples of ALL IN ALL All in all, this was the best marathon I’ve ever run. All in all, I can’t wait to go back to Mackinac Island next year!

to cut corners: to economize, to save money Examples of TO CUT CORNERS Most students live on limited budgets and have to cut corners whenever possible. The Livingstons have nine children, so it is essential that they cut corners at all times.

butter up: be nice to, suck up to Examples of BUTTER UP – Butter him up before you ask to borrow his car.– So I’m trying to butter up those officials so we do get a call once in a while.

to get better, worse, etc.: to become better, worse, etc. Examples of GET BETTER, WORSE I practice the violin every day, because I know there’s no other way to get better. When he got the angry call from his manager, he knew his day was going to get worse.

to stop by: to visit or stop somewhere briefly in order to do something Examples of TO STOP BY   Stop by and learn how you might be able to make a difference for your neighbors. If we stop by the house at dinnertime, Mom says she’s already eaten and is full.

to go in for: to have as an interest, such as a sport or hobby Examples of TO GO IN FOR James goes in for tennis while his wife goes for painting and sculpture. What sports do you go in for?