the lion's share; the cream
price manipulation; price fixing
continued consultation; continuous conference
to grow older (esp. older than other people in the same group or situation); to advance in age; to be very aged
year in, year out; always; 24-7
brocade; fine dress; fine clothes
without being able to help oneself; against one's will; compelling; pressing; irresistible
all-out war; full-scale war
at the critical moment; when it counts
extremely good friends; best friends
diverse arguments arising in great numbers
increase the number of trains in operation; increase bond issues
happy event; cause for celebration; congratulations
fluttering (flag, etc.); flapping; waving
collective view (opinion)
collecting; collection; collation; gathering; arrangement; coordination
branch (of a larger organization); local chapter
economic blockade; embargo
contacting; getting in touch; communication; call; message
warring nations; belligerents
to be mature and kind; to be well-balanced; to be a good person
to be much obliged (to someone); to receive favor (favour); to be indebted; to be grateful
noble undertaking; heroic deed
superstition; acting superstitiously (for good luck)
this spring; spring this year
disagreement; disapproval; objection; dissent; non-consent
continually; continuously; incessantly; without interruption
arms buildup; military expansion
literal meaning (of a word, etc.)
checkers (board game); draughts; checker