to make clear: to clarify, to explain Examples of TO MAKE CLEAR I want to make clear to you that we won’t start construction until we’re paid in full. You need to make clear to your customers that they’ll regret not buying the extended warranty.

to look at: give one’s attention to; to watch Examples of LOOK AT “Roll up your sleeve,” the doctor said. “I’ll need to look at your arm.” I went to the museum to look at the Max Ernst exhibit.

stands to reason: to be clear and logical Examples of STANDS TO REASON Because things are so far apart, it stands to reason that everyone in the suburbs would own a car. We’re doing so well right now that, it stands to reason that our team will win the game.

to go with: to match, to compare well in color to design; to date, toaccompany (also: to go out with) Examples of TO GO WITH It goes well with dessert, cheeses, fish and my personal favorite, Indian food. Bacon especially goes well with pumpkin, lending just a little extra richness.

to back up: to drive or go backwards (S); to defend, to support (S); to return to a previous thought Examples of TO BACK UP So it plans to buy back up to $10 million of its stock over the next few months Unfortunately, the rates haven’t gone back up, and people are dealing with…

to keep away (from): to stay at a distance (from) ; to avoid use of (also:stay away from) Examples of TO KEEP AWAY Keep candles away from any combustible items such as curtains, bed spreads, etc. We try to eat healthily and like to stay away from preservatives and pesticides.