to count on: to trust someone in time of need (also: to depend on) Examples of COUNT ON We’ll be able to count on Todd; everyone knows he’s reliable and gets things done on time. The store manager was able to count on the celebrity to make a big purchase.

to tear up: to rip into small pieces Examples of TO TEAR UP Let’s tear up the rule book and just do our own thing! Reports said he tore up the check and threw some of the pieces out of the window.

to get along with: to associate or work well with; to succeed or manage indoing (also: to get on with) Examples of GET ALONG WITH It’s very easy to get along with the new manager; I’m very lucky I’m not on the other team. It seems like the cat doesn’t want to get along with…

a bone of contention: something which people argue and disagree over.Examples: Medicaid costs have long been a bone of contention between counties and the state. How climate change will affect hurricanes has long been a bone of contention.

to brush up on: to review something in order to refresh one’s memory Examples of TO BRUSH UP ON The old doctor mistakenly thought he didn’t need to brush up on the procedure, and it caused more complications for the patient. Let’s brush up on our sales techniques before the holiday rush.

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.