Explore a collection of useful daily vocabulary thoughtfully selected by language expert John to enhance your communication skills.
just a matter of time
A phrase for the inevitable.
Core Meaning
The phrase indicates that something is **certain** to happen, and its arrival is only dependent on the passage of time.
When to use it…
-
To predict a sure win: “With that huge lead, it’s just a matter of time before they win the game.” ⚽️
-
For an inevitable failure: “The old building is unstable; it’s just a matter of time until it collapses.” 💥
-
To encourage patience: “Don’t give up! It’s just a matter of time until you find the right job.” 🙏
More Examples
-
In business: “Our new product is so much better than the competition’s; it’s just a matter of time before we dominate the market.” 📈
-
For personal growth: “You’ve been practicing every day. It’s just a matter of time until you master that new song on the piano.” 🎹
-
In politics: “The public is clearly losing faith in the current leader. It’s just a matter of time until they are replaced.” 🗳️
survived by someone
A phrase used in obituaries.
Core Meaning
This phrase is used to state which family members are still alive after a person has died. It’s most often seen in a person’s **obituary**.
How to use it…
-
To list direct family: “He is survived by his wife, two children, and four grandchildren.”
-
To mention a broader family: “She is survived by her loving husband, two sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.”
-
When a person dies without a family: This phrase is not used. Obituaries would simply state the person’s passing.
More Examples
-
In a formal obituary: “Mr. Arthur Smith, a decorated veteran, passed away peacefully at age 95. He is survived by his three adoring children, John, Jane, and Mark.”
-
For a public figure: “The famous novelist is survived by his long-time partner and an extensive collection of published works.”