The acid test: A test which will really prove the value, quality, or truth of something.Examples: The acid test for the vaccine will be its performance in African countries where malaria is raging more fiercely than in Colombia. The new show was well received but viewing figures for the next episode will be the real…

to grow out of: to outgrow, to become too old for; to be a result of Examples of TO GROW OUT OF Mom knew I was going to grow out of my adolescent crabbiness. She bought her friend’s baby bigger shoes, that she wouldn’t grow out of so quickly.

would rather: prefer to (also: would just as soon) Examples of WOULD RATHER I would rather go biking than running, because biking is easier on my knees. He would rather go to the salad bar, but she wanted to go to the steakhouse.

to hold out: to endure, to be sufficient; to survive by resisting; to persist in one’s efforts Examples of TO HOLD OUT If our supply of food and water holds out, we plan to camp here for another week. However, whenever it gives out, we’ll have to leave. That nation’s troops cannot hold out much…

clear-cut: clearly stated, definite, apparent Examples of CLEAR-CUT Zettel recently visited Michigan and said that school is his clear-cut favorite. Such success made him a clear-cut selection but tells a thin slice of the story.

to think of: to have a (good or bad) opinion of Examples of THINK OF If you don’t see me, remember to think of me next time you visit. I’ll need to think of a good excuse for getting out of the play tomorrow night.