to render futile; to bring to naught; to waste; to not make good use of
power map; power structure; power relationships
after; post; ex-; after the fact; ex post
support; backing; patronage
sounding; probing; probe; stylet; spy
sense; idea; desire; concern; attention; care
to sense; to suspect; to get an inkling (of something); to get wind of; to smell (e.g. danger); to become aware of (e.g. a plot)
countermeasure; counter-measure
obstacle; hindrance; impediment; nuisance; bore; burden
surely; clearly; without a doubt; in all probability; no matter how one slices it; no matter how one looks at it
to become familiar with and cherish; to get to know and love
to go smoothly; to turn out well; to do the trick; to have peaceful relations
to settle (a problem); to put an end to (a dispute); to be disposed of; to be settled; to come to an end
one's heart's desire; one's dearest wish
congratulations!; well done!; best wishes!; all the best!
noted family; noble family; prestigious school, organization, business, etc.
it is, isn't it?; I know, right?; innit?
to ward off; to brush away; to fling off; to drive away
to tear off; to rip off; to peel off
suspicious glance; suspicious look; suspicious expression
to turn away (one's eyes, face, etc.); to avert; to displease; to annoy; to miss (the target, ball, etc.)
degree of familiarity; popularity
selfishness; self-interest
affiliated with; under jurisdiction of; under the umbrella
receiving; reception; eating; drinking; please; please do for me
secret understanding; collusion
compassionate; sympathetic
to deepen; to heighten; to intensify
arrest; apprehension; capture
(a) weakness; shortcoming; failing; sore point
adapting oneself to the requirements of the moment; playing by ear; ad hoc approach
one's principles and position
alluring words; endearing words; sugared words; sweet words; honeyed words; flattery
conversation (just) between you and me; confidential talk
to wag one's tail; to flatter; to butter up; to fawn (on)
betrayer; traitor; turncoat; informer