104 Practice Makes Perfect English Conversation
Improving your conversation
Pros and cons
Pro can be used as a shortened form of professional—in this case meaning expert.You painted the walls yourself? Man, you’re a real pro!Pro can refer to the positive characteristics or positions in an argument. Con refers to the
negative ones.This issue has both pros and cons.
On the pro side, he’s a hard worker.
On the con side, he often comes to work late.In the first place/plus/in addition
To begin a series of arguments that are intended to convince someone to agree with your pro
(positive) argument, use in the first place. Subsequent arguments are introduced by in the second
place, in addition (more formal), furthermore (more formal), what’s more, plus, and—to intro-
duce the last argument—finally. For the frosting on the cake can be used instead of finally to
indicate that the last argument mentioned is the strongest one of all. As if that weren’t enough
and to top it all off are alternative expressions with the same function.Our lake district is a wonderful place for a vacation. In the first place, it’s easily reached by car,
and there is plenty of free parking for all visitors. In the second place, there are luxury
hotels, with all the bells and whistles, as well as more economical inns and even campsites
for those who like to rough it. What’s more, there are lots of things to do, from golfing to
swimming and other water sports, plus many activities organized especially for children.
Finally/For the frosting on the cake/As if that weren’t enough/To top it all off, the fresh
air and quiet atmosphere guarantee you an invigorating, yet relaxing, break from city life.Besides
In a con (negative) argument, the same expressions are used, with one exception: instead of in
addition, besides is used.I don’t recommend the lake district for a family vacation. In the first place, it’s very
expensive for what it offers. In the second place, it’s just as hot there as it is in the city, and
besides, the place is full of mosquitoes. Finally, the roads that take you there are jammed
with traffic all summer. Why not opt for a change of scenery and go a little farther away?So far
So far indicates what has happened between the beginning of something and the present time. It
can go before the subject or at the end of the phrase.We have a hundred signatures on the petition so far.
So far we have a hundred signatures on the petition.Still
Still has a number of meanings. Here it indicates that what follows is contrary to and more
important than what preceded it.