give and take: compromise, cooperation between people Examples of GIVE AND TAKE Give and take is an important element of a successful marriage. Most business negotiations involve give and take between the parties involved.

to rule out: to refuse to consider, to prohibit Examples of TO RULE OUT Despite the man’s condition, he could not be ruled out as a suspect, Akers said. The price of half-decent tomatoes at this time of year rules that one out.

all along: all the time, from the beginning (without change) Examples of ALL ALONG After we searched and searched, it turned out that the turtle was in his crate all along! We knew all along that Jeremy would win the election.

at last: finally, after a long time. Examples of AT LAST “At last, I’ll be in New York City,” the tourist thought to herself excitedly. At last, Sherlock solved the mystery.

to call up: to telephone (also: to give some one a call) Examples of CALL UP I want to call up my dad and wish him a happy Father’s Day. You need to call up your four o’clock appointment and confirm he’ll be there.

at heart: basically, fundamentally Examples of AT HEART Do they actually have any interest at heart other than their own self adoration? She had their best interests at heart and acted like a surrogate mother to them.