to think over: to consider carefully before deciding Examples of THINK OVER “I’ll tell you tomorrow. I’m going to want to think over your proposal,” said the businessman to his associate. You’ll want to think over your options before picking the right college for you.

to cut off: to shorten by cutting the ends; to disconnect or stop suddenly Examples of TO CUT OFF The rude waitress tried to cut me off while I was placing my order. “I’ll need to cut off the microphone, if you don’t behave yourself,” the chairman said to the angry committee member.

to give birth to: to bear a human being or animal Examples of TO GIVE BIRTH TO His wife, Olivia, had given birth to their second son two days before the crash. His reliable nanny goat, Honeybear, had given birth to five baby goats, or kids.

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.

to take by surprise: to surprise, to amaze, to astonish Examples of TO TAKE BY SURPRISE The offer of a high-paying position with another company took me by surprise. The president’s announcement that the university was in financial trouble didn’t take anyone by surprise.

to back out: to drive a vehicle out of a parking space; to withdraw support, to fail to fulfill a promise or obligation Examples of TO BACK OUT The parking lot attendant had to back another car out before he could get to mine. We were all ready to sign the contracts when one of…