Used to tell someone that you cannot accept an invitation now, but would like to do so at a later time: «Mind if I take a rain ______ on that drink? I have to work late tonight».

A situation that is fair because everyone has the same chance of succeeding: «The regulations will create a level playing ______ for food manufacturers in the EU.»»

If the ball is in someone's ______, they have to do something before any progress can be made in a situation.

To do something extraordinarily well: «Her presentation was clear, informative, and engaging. She really knocked it out of the ______».

To talk to someone for a short time to find out how they are or what they think about something: «I just wanted to quickly touch ______ with you: did you get an email from my secretary about the meeting?»

If two competitors are neck and ______, they are level with each other and have an equal chance of winning.

To know more about the most recent developments in a particular subject or activity than the people or companies you are competing against: «A very extensive research and development programme ensures that we're ahead of the ______».

The last part of something that is being done. «It's taken three months, but we're on the home ______ now».»

A strategy worked out in advance, a plan for achieving success: «Our team needs to develop a game ______ for growing our social media presence this year».

To be in charge or in control of a situation: «In this company, women are in the driving ______».

To waste effort on something when there is no chance of succeeding: «He keeps trying to get it published but I think he's flogging a dead ______».

To fail to keep working to reach a goal: «Public schools have dropped the ______ when it comes to teaching kids about art and music».

To give your attention to what you are doing at the time: «You have to keep your eye on the ______ in business».