ECPE Grammar you need

Never before _____ to contradict the director.

The castle _____ on the hill just outside the city center is over 500 years old.

Thanks to the mild weather, many construction projects are going _____ be put on hold.

They decided to set out at dawn, little _____ what the weather had in store for them.

Beth _____ the book to be so expensive, or she would have brought more money.

If you _____ your application, you’ll miss the deadline.

I’d really like _____ some new ideas I have for redecorating the house.

I promised her that I would help her no matter _____.

Even though her father doesn’t approve of her decision to quit, he _____ what’s best for her.

“Bob’s going to Spain on a business trip.” “_____ wonderful if I could go with him?”

“Did you buy the CDs at the new music store?”“No,the prices there were_____than I’d expected.”

“Have you seen Mike lately?” “Yes, I saw him _____ days ago.”

He was very generous to his friends, but usually _____ nothing in return.

I don’t remember _____ the door this morning.

If you prepare well in advance, the presentation _____ be any trouble.

I have to say that I consider the fine imposed _____ under the circumstances.

Simon’s boss burdens him with more work _____ possible for one person.

The management agreed to _____ on in the company.

“I won’t be able to come tonight.“Oh, I _____ that we’d be able to talk about old times.”

Luckily, I had _____ the exam when the bell rang and class ended.

Had I known you were coming, I _____ something special.

He remained abroad for many years _____ paying more taxes.

This has happened a number of times before and I can assure you I know the problem _____ .

John _____ be unqualified on paper, but he has a lot of experience doing this kind of work.

It’s strictly forbidden _____ your car in front of this access road.

When Ellen submitted her raise application, the committee could not believe _____ thinking.

“Did you finish your packing?” “Yes, I _____ it last night.”

I know that our team has not beaten yours for many years, but I still believe it _____.

I tried to get a good photo of the stage, but there were too many people _____ .

The advisory committee recommends the department _____ its annual award.

_____ the university to raise tuition fees, many students might decide to leave.

Mary recognized Steve at the coffee shop, even though she _____ seen him for many years.

Rain is predicted for this weekend; _____, we are still planning to play soccer on Saturday.

_____ timing is essential for any comedy actor.

I know John doesn’t have any money, but _____ he’ll have to pay me back.

It may seem a little difficult at first, but _____ you’ll get used to it.

People _____ for the new project will begin work next week.

It’s inevitable that children of divorced parents _____ .

For years, store owners in cities and suburbs _____ the business of local families.

Mario never told us _____ change his mind about studying medicine.

He insisted _____ for the meal even though I had invited him to join me.

The town’s new hospital _____ founder, William Price.

I recommend she _____ to the French restaurant if she wants high quality food.

“People didn’t use to be so aggressive when they drove.” “I know, but now things _____.”

I have some math problems that I’ll try _____ by myself.

Pay close attention. You can’t afford to ignore _____ information.

Accustomed _____ , he was surprised he had fallen so far behind with the deadline.

____ at night, there isn’t much traffic in the city.

There are many causes of poverty, _____ is a lack of educational opportunities.

_____ graduate school, it is necessary to read extensively.

“Wasn’t the party great!” “Yeah, we had a truly _____ time.”

_____ odd as it sounds, I would rather not go out tonight.

_____ your money from the cash dispenser, please don’t forget to take your card immediately.

I find his story about how he got that job quite hard _____ .

John _____ to getting married once, but he decided to wait.

Dr. Cain’s research looked for similar patterns of migration _____ different species of birds.

Since this soup is very hot, you _____ it right away.

Can you tell me _____ the answer to this question?

I have to read through all these resumes. It’s the job I like _____ .

He presented his views _____ everybody had to agree with him in the end.

_____ you need is to spend three weeks on a sunny beach somewhere in the Caribbean.

A great number of questions _____ due to the long-standing nature of this debt.

Inflation _____ to rise by 4% before the end of this year.

The city is investigating several busy intersections to assess which of them _____.

I don’t know why Ann keeps driving that ten _____car.

Florida has quite a few difficulties with its weather, _____ because it’s a peninsula.

The concert pianist was honored to be asked to play _____ the President.

“How many parts is this food processor ____?” “Oh, about six or seven.”

I hate birthday parties. _____ , I don’t have anything to wear.

Strange as it _____ , the bus journey was actually quicker than going by car.

I have visited many Greek historical sites _____ are more than a thousand years old.

Detroit has _____ the Motor City.

Something _____ to be done about the shortage of water.

Dogs and wolves are two _____ species of mammals.

Having left his wallet at home, Steve _____ the items later.

What I didn’t understand is _____ about our plans to expand next year.

I didn't apply to that school as there isn’t _____ variety of courses as in the one I chose.

You’d be wrong to think that in a desert there’s _____ .

A few minutes into the concert, Ed realized that he had never heard anyone _____ beautifully.

Advice to the elderly on the aches and pains associated with colds____to have been successful.

“Why didn’t you trust Jim?” “_____ to him, I couldn’t help feeling that he was lying.”

Having _____ knowledge of computers is now a very important job skill.

I wonder _____ to complete the project before the end of the year.

_____, we did manage to make ends meet somehow!

“I got a bonus for the project.”“_____ the amount of work you put into it, you deserve it.”

The man who _____ a well-deserved Oscar for this role that year had initially turned it down.

He’s that type of man _____ background can’t be detected easily.

He didn’t realize _____ home late at night disturbed the neighbors.

Traveling downtown would be a nightmare _____ bus networks in the city.

Research being carried outredarding the issue _____ likely to be published shortly.

The outdoor festival went ahead _____ the bad weather.

____ the difficulty of the material, the teacher took extra time teaching it to her students.

For the past week, my cousin and my aunt _____ at my house.

Nobody is accusing you _____ finances from the company. It’s a complete misunderstanding.

You should wear _____ clothing when handling these chemicals.

I hope you take my advice _____ this matter.

The temperatures this year are _____ those of last year.

“John didn’t take the job.” “Really? He _____ . It pays well.”

David didn’t know what _____ start a completely new system for keeping track of files.

Bill _____ play the piano, he plays the violin and flute too.

I’m sure she can do _____ of her.

“I can’t understand this assignment.” “I believe you will _____ if you think about it a bit.”

Many people worry about _____ their old age.

The Book Association’s Online Free Library project has _____ a grant from the state.

Although she shows promise as an athlete, she has _____ to fulfill her full potential.

While they say they _____ , I really don’t think they’ll do anything.

I wish I _____ used to getting up early in the morning.

“How did you do on the examination?” “Fine, _____ was included in the first part.”

The poor performance of the company _____ a great number of redundancies.

An inspiring mentor, Dr. Higgins _____ the best in his interns.

Your proposal _____ by the board of directors.

I wish I had not taken this class without _____ my advisor.

“When are you going to return that $20 I lent you?” “I don’t remember ____ any money from you!”

I’d rather _____ any breaks until you’ve finished all your work!

_____ his stage career, Paul has attempted to extend his repertoire.

“What are your plans for the summer?” “_____ June, I’m not sure.”

_____ we see him, he’s always in a hurry.

If we _____ this obstacle, we need to work harder.

Students _____ all of the assigned short stories by the start of the school year.

If you _____ John, would you still have gone to Australia?

“I’ve just painted the house.” “Yes, it smells as if _____ .”

The decline of this industry over the last decade _____ training programs to be eliminated.

It’s important to always be _____ with one’s neighbors.

We didn’t enjoy our vacation this year, _____ the children.

_____ he was voted out of office, the politician regained his position as governor.

If it doesn’t make a profit soon, this company is _____ having to declare bankruptcy.

The Fair legacy is the statement _____ cities placing a greater emphasis on life quality.

Thinking _____ a short cut will save you time can be a real mistake!

“Did Mary finish the report?” “Well, she _____ by this morning, but I don’t think she did.”

I think you should consider _____ for a new job as soon as possible.

_____ eating chocolate may be enjoyable, it can be detrimental in the long term.

Bill insists on playing loud rock music, _____ the neighbors like it or not.

Consecutive analyses _____ that this trend is not a long-term phenomenon.

Over twenty years _____ have gone into building this business.

“What happened to your long hair?” “I was tired of it, so I had it cut _____.”

I wish I weren’t going to that meeting tonight; I would _____ here with all of you.

Raoul turned down the editorial position because he felt he _____ that type of work.

For centuries, people have used garlic in _____.

Thieves are reported _____ vital equipment from a government warehouse yesterday morning.

Everyone who came to the last two meetings _____ at the reception today.

No one knows the combination to the safe _____ Sophie.

I’m sure Liz’s Spanish would improve if she _____ a semester in Spain.

_____ in your spare time would help you more with your studies than listening to music.

Researchers are studying immune cells _____ protect against infection.

Although the agreement was signed, they haven’t decided _____ when it should be implemented.

It’s surprising how much _____ after the operation.

The committee changed its rules as ____ the previous ones were too difficult for us to follow.

“I ____ why you don’t go out with your friends.”“It’s because I have so much studying to do!”

“How did the music recital go?” “I made one mistake, but _____ that, it went really well.”

Foner’s new book on Abraham Lincoln may be long _____ dull.

If I _____ you once, I’ve told you a thousand times. You have to go to bed early on weekdays.

"But I can’t stand Kim!” “_____ , I think it would be rude of you not to invite her".

Cell phones are very popular these days and _____ an important part of many people’s lives.

“I heard about your accident. Are you OK?” “Yes, but it caused a lot of problems _____ me.”

“Did you enjoy the Pyramids?” “Yes! _____ them close up is extraordinary.”

I wish it _____ , but I’ll have to cancel my trip to the Rockies this year.

“How’s John doing?” “I think _____ .”

If you _____ catching the 10:00 a.m. flight, make sure you get the ticket beforehand.

That red bird is native _____ this region.

“I don’t want to take my medicine.”“You’re going to have to take it, _____ you like it or not."

If she hadn’t lost that contract, she _____ the company next Friday.

When she heard that David got the promotion she wanted, Margo’s _____ was overwhelming.

The laws of this country apply to everyone, _____ you are rich or poor.

My vocabulary _____ increased since I started reading English magazines.

According to a recent report, cellular phone sales _____ 300 million a year.

We visited many places vacationing in Canada, the most interesting _____ was Montreal.

Monica and Leo suggested a picnic this weekend, _____ sounds perfect to me.

All the students tried _____ to win the recycling prize.

“Which new office would you prefer to take, Ms. Simon?” “I’d like _____ a view of the river.”

Attending every class is important ____ in college.

Never _____ to Paris before, I can’t imagine what it’s like.

From the angry crowd _____ many objections.

“Have you met these people before?” “No, only _____ standing right next to the door.”

I suppose _____ no truth in what he says.

“Are you excited about your trip?” “Yes, I’m looking forward _____ away for a few days.”

Although Joan did poorly in her first exam, she has made a lot of improvement ____ then.

_____ you know, I left the keys on the table next to the lamp.

While I _____ your problem, I’m afraid you’ll have to wait to see the manager.

“I hate the weather here in London.” “Oh, I know. It _____ in five days.”

I have to finish this report at home; _____ more to do.

The technology staff assured me that our new printer is _____ our vendor offers.

It is important to look at issues _____ other people’s perspective.

“I don’t see the cartons anywhere!” “They’re outside _____ on the truck!”

We were _____ a loss to know what to do about falling sales.

Teachers should talk with students who are careless _____ their homework.

Many studies have shown that smokers have a shorter life span, _____ nonsmokers.

I really enjoy gardening after it _____.

I have carefully examined the customer’s complaint, but _____ I should go forward.

Not only _____ hard working but he’s efficient as well.

Although Mr. Dee was not popular at first, _____ the students learned to appreciate his style.

If you want to learn the art _____, you should take Audrey’s cooking class.

_____ Joanne, she was the best skier, despite having just recovered from a recent illness.

_____, we didn’t need to meet the applicant after seeing her resume.

This car belongs to my sister; the other, _____.

If I can finish the report this morning, I _____ early.

The survey compared recent graduates' opinion to that of workers who were _____ their careers.

“What should we do with the new data?”“_____previous case,I think Ed should see them first.”

It’s really hard to make up my mind _____ to buy this flat in London or a larger one in Rome.

Tom gives the impression _____ being very competent.

Mary’s friend, _____ an editor of a well-known newspaper, has offered me a job.

The fire would have caused terrible damage if it _____ for the help of the firemen.

The older he gets, the _____ he becomes.

He’s going to have to take that job _____ he likes it or not.

I’ve tried all day ____ I can’t undo the mess that she made.

George never realized how important honesty was _____ he got caught telling a lie.

I can’t depend on _____ a salary increase this year.

Hey John, ____ what time the baseball game starts, do you?

_____ I appreciate your offer, you know I can’t accept it at this time.

Bob suggested _____ to a new restaurant that’s just opened up.

According to a recent report, cellular phone sales _____ 450 million a year.

_____ being unsuitable, I see that he has a lot of relevant work experience for this post.

Learning is a lifelong process through ____ must go.

Sheila is very _____ the new Matisse exhibit at the National Gallery.

Meeting so many people _____ the most interesting experience of our holiday so far.

_____ the report is to be handed in tomorrow, I wouldn’t be writing it now.

Before doing business abroad, call the trade office to see _____ markets you’re interested in.

Robert asked his colleagues to _____ on what he’d missed during his vacation.

Because _____, he always got high grades in his classes.

The accident was finally put down to _____ .

I didn’t cause the accident. Fred is _____ for that.

Jessica moved into her friend’s apartment temporarily _____ where she would go next.

Since you need to go home early every day next week, you _____ ask John for a ride.

____ the fact that he is famous as a movie star, he won’t have any problem being elected.

“What are they arguing about?” “They have very different political _____.”

“How did Jane’s audition go?” “Not well. They suggested _____ her ambition to be an actress.”

My children, while playing with a friend of _____, caught a butterfly.

_____ the photocopy machine you must first enter your personal code.

Dr. Briggs’ recommendation was different _____ Dr. Simpson.

Did the hurricane cause much _____ to the houses on the coast?

There is growing agreement that _____ maintain staffing at good levels, they must invest.

It _____ asking for an increase in salary now. We had one eight months ago.

It sometimes takes courage to _____ your beliefs when others disagree with you.

The fertilizer I’ve been using has _____ wonders for my plants.

I _____ in school longer if I’d known how difficult it was to get a job.

At seven o’clock, I _____ the hotel and checked in immediately.

_____ that I recommend we invite her to our next annual dinner.

“Has my parcel has arrived?” “I’ll just check our mail office in case it____ .”

Henry is, _____ often than not, lucky at cards.

As enrollment has increased this year, _____ has decided to hire more faculty.

I didn’t think you _____ me the money I need. Thank you so much!

Now that he has started law school, Eric ____ give up his volunteer work.

The information _____ complete the report was difficult to obtain.

“Do you think I could see you for a few minutes?” “Not now please, _____ it’s really urgent.”

“I think kids today don’t do so well in school.” “_____ , they know more than we did.”

It’s really generous _____ us his car.

She is said _____ into a promising singer, before she went into acting.

Helen managed to complete the exam despite _____.

Only with much effort _____ succeed.

The young artist has been awarded a fellowship in order _____ her work.

Out of all the scholarship winners, James was _____ to organize his own research laboratory.

“What’s taking you so long?” “I only stopped ____ for a moment .”

“Don’t you think you should give Bob another chance?” “Absolutely not! He _____!”

The main purpose of this meeting is _____ some new procedures.

Many math students have become too _____ on calculators.

It’s no use denying _____ there when I have 3 witnesses saying they saw you entering the shop.

The project team says they’ll finish the report today. _____,they’ll deliver it to us tomorrow.

You’ll have time to finish the report _____ you start immediately.

“Global warming is destroying us.” “You’re right, and I think we _____ more to stop it.”

Although she has spoken to her boss before, Sophia will try _____ a raise one last time.

I feel good about volunteering, but sometimes I wonder whether it makes a difference _____.

According to a recent press release, _____ at the state level to ban the use of fireworks.

Sarah complains about his messy room but he _____ about it.

Why not _____ Susan about this issue?

Do you think we’ll have time to stop off at a gift shop _____ to the airport?

He’s been employed _____ a mechanic in the company for several years.

The politician was _____ for the scandals he was involved in.

I don’t have the money to join you tonight, but even if _____, I’m just too tired.

If I bought a new car I _____ have to borrow money.

In 2002, the university carried out a study of people _____ campus.

No sooner _____ walked into the office than she was overwhelmed with questions.

“Will you be done with your studies soon?” “No. I’ll probably finish _____ four more years.”

_____ for the special website design class should sign up by tomorrow.

They seem to be very _____ with each other.

_____ informed of the situation in advance made it more difficult for him to make a decision.

_____ the task required a tremendous effort.

In order to call yourself an expert, you need _____ knowledge of the subject.

“John has a large garden, doesn’t he?” “Yes, _____ vegetables he also has fruit trees.”

This is the most profound book I _____.

_____ the errands, I then had to pick up the kids.

I can’t find my keys, but I remember _____ them into the house.

The necklace consists of 15 diamonds, _____ over a carat in weight.

Were I _____ myself in his position, I would probably do the same.

The idea of _____ a group was important to her.

“Did you manage to get a cab right away?” “Yeah. Otherwise, I _____ my flight!”

“Would you like to help us organize our end-of the year event?” “_____!”

I think it will cost a lot of money _____ your computer.

This building is in dire _____.

New managers can be really hard _____ they feel like they’re not meeting their objectives.

It’s _____ cold to go outside without a coat.

_____ the difficulty of the material, the teacher took extra time teaching it to us.

He made sure _____ of the changes he had made to the agreement.

“What _____ about the new company policy on expenses?” “I’m not in favor of it.”

You can start the meeting _____ I arrive or not.

_____ the train departs on time, we should be in Paris by noon.

She used to let him _____ his money on whatever he liked.

“Have you submitted your application yet?” “No. I haven’t _____ had a chance to start it.”

Jim never applied himself at school, but now he wishes _____ .

“Do you like John?” “Yes, _____ that I know him a bit better.”

Why did Paul ask you _____ a car?

Alexandra is _____ student in this class.

_____ passed over for much of his career, he was finally offered the promotion.

I refuse to put _____ his laziness.

He is _____ I am.

_____ we will have completed the project by the end of the month is a little over-optimistic.

Many valuable paintings _____ during the war earlier this century.

Mark has been completely preoccupied _____ the plans for his upcoming wedding.

As soon as I entered the room, I forgot _____ I went in there for.

“Did you manage to get to work on time?” “Yes, I _____ the eight o’clock train.”

What _____ is how he reacted to your suggestion.

If some members of staff _____ to arrive late to work, they will be fired.

It’s important that all elections are _____.

There must be over sixty teachers employed at the school, _____ have postgraduate degrees.

“Mary seems _____ her handout. Does anyone have a spare one?”

As we grow older, we become _____.

Where’s the train? It _____ here an hour ago.

It was good of you _____ me at such short notice.

“What a beautiful blouse!” “Isn’t it! It was handed _____ me by my grandmother.”

She won the game, although she _____ it before.

I’m very unhappy _____ the way things turned out today.

I can’t even afford a short vacation, _____ a luxury cruise.

“Officer, I saw the thieves.” “Well then, see if you can describe _____.”

I bet I’m not the first person _____ that you have a wonderful singing voice.

Never _____ a person in a similar condition, I burst into tears.

The fisherman wanted to free the dolphin without letting the fish _____ away.

I took the blame _____ the accident and paid for all the damage.

The philosophy books he read did nothing _____ him wiser or happier.

Many nations urge their citizens _____ in elections.

The conference was a great success _____ people stayed for the last day of presentations.

Small children are completely _____ on their parents.

“One of your clients called while you were out.” “Did he tell you what _____?”

I visited both New York and Washington again last year, both of _____ I like very much.

The government just passed a law _____ achieving huge reductions in carbon dioxide.

It was his innocent-looking face _____ to believe him.

The project would be much better _____ more time to prepare it.

This project is _____ for an introductory-level class.

“How did you get rid of that hole?” “I had Linda _____ it for me with her sewing machine.”

I asked that he _____ us at the restaurant at 8 p.m.

Mark’s parents wouldn’t buy him the jeans he wanted, so he had to _____ them himself.

Doctors recommend _____ vegetables every day.

Susan’s great success _____ willingness to work long hours.

He was calmly exploring the sea floor ____ noticing his oxygen tank was nearly empty.

“Who will be at the ceremony tomorrow?” “Mary _____ come, and so is Henry.”

“Is this your jacket? I found it in the conference room.” “No, it _____ be somebody else’s.”

He appreciated _____ to attend the meeting even though he couldn’t make it.

The new housing policy reforms are coming _____ considerable scrutiny in the press.

“Do you know where the blue file is?” “Sue _____ it to her office.”

_____ great at math, but she can also speak three languages.

Organic foods _____ better for you than commercially produced foods.

Did you hear the concert _____ on the radio last night? I didn’t enjoy it at all.

Only children _____ aged twelve and over are allowed on this ride.

Have you been feeling _____ the weather lately?

I’m trying to call the theater to find out when the movie starts, but I ____ any luck so far.

Very few people applied for the job. _____ , the company had to advertise the position again.

_____ admitting his guilt in court, he managed to get a reduction in his sentence.

“How was your speech?” “For every person who liked it, _____ didn’t.”

When I was young I _____ for miles; now I can only manage short walks.

All the students tried _____ to get a good education.

Let's be efficient in our meeting; I have an appointment at noon, so _____ eleven thirty.

Doctors recommend starting each day _____ a healthy breakfast.

“Fred’s going to need a lot of coaching.” “I know. We have a long way _____.”

_____ it happens again, please let me know as soon as possible.

“Let's sell the house!”“You're joking! Not for anything in the world _____ in an apartment!”

There were four people on the committee, ____ representing a different department.

He suggested I _____ to a university near home.

“It took me a whole hour to get here.” “You _____ have asked your father to give you a ride.”

I can’t think of anything that can _____ for this huge discrepancy.

_____ I’d like to change location, I feel this company offers me better prospects.

In a unanimous decision, the proposal was _____ cheaper solution.

I came back from vacation only _____ my plants had died.

When you get to the library, _____ some information for me?

For many years, I was happy with the way my life _____.

The people _____ at the bus stop were very angry when the bus didn’t stop.

“Why did Sam quit his job at the cafe?”“He really never had _____ patience to be a waiter.”

I'd like to propose to the board that a letter of complaint _____ to the offending firm.

“Do you want to walk to the metro together?” “Go ahead. I _____ haven’t finished this report.”

Maria keeps trying to outdo her sister, _____ is not such an easy task.

I wish we ____ the scenic route, but we had to get there quickly.

_____ I’m concerned, the issue is closed.

We’ve decided to vacation in Maine next summer, _____ there’s no downturn in business.

I'm not going back to my hometown! _____ , I wouldn’t even go there if you paid me.”

I remember _____ at that restaurant when I was a child.

I’m glad we managed to get the 9 o’clock train; otherwise _____ nother hour for the next one.

If there’s one thing you shouldn’t ask Bill, _____ his age.

“I can’t afford anything in this store.” “Don’t worry, buy _____ like. This is my treat.”

_____ I get an increase in salary by the end of the year, I won’t be able to go on vacation.

Frank enjoys _____ in a small apartment near the city center.

This recipe doesn’t say for how long to bake the pie _____ whether we need to add salt.

There are _____ candidates for the examination than we expected.

By the time he left New York, he _____ in three different companies.

He gained the respect of his colleagues _____ his strong commitment to the company.

By the time we got there, there _____ nothing left of the birthday cake.

The towers of the new bridge are fifty-six meters _____ the old one.

“Have you finished all your household chores?” “Yeah, and you cannot imagine _____ !”

The hotel manager was so nice to us that we let _____ into staying another day.

The principal stands by all her decisions even though _____ popular.

Universities _____ by large companies do interesting research.

_____ in a single-parent family are often very independent.

Henry didn’t get the job because he _____ a college education.

“I’m not ready to leave just yet.” “I thought you ____ by now!”

I _____ about John, when suddenly I saw him walking toward me.

“Annie can’t decide which job offer to accept.” “I’m sure she’ll be happy _____.”

If he’s really interested in art, I’d suggest _____ to the new exhibition in New York.

The professor said a bibliography was unnecessary after Jess had already _____ of writing one.

The investment company was accused _____ to take all the money.

Simple as _____ to you, I just can’t figure out this calculus homework.

The part _____ repair the car was ordered today.

Don’t always ask me what to do. It’s entirely _____ .

Not once _____ while he was in the hospital about the pain.

With modern medicine, people’s lives have changed _____ the better.

"Why hasn’t Robert come to class?” “I heard _____ some problems with his work schedule.”

“Should I close up the shop now?” “You _____ . I don’t think anyone else will come now.”

“Alex took the office keys with him by mistake.” “No, _____ took the keys.”

The company was hoping to find _____ their accountant.

“Did the doctor give you medicine for your stomach ?” “No, but she told me _____ to eat.”