English Conversation

Expressing doubts and uncertainty 87

Now and then he sends me an e-mail.

We have a family reunion every so often.

Occasionally I get together with my high school friends.

8 · 1

EXERCISE

Fill in each blank with the most appropriate word or expression (after all, besides, in the

first place, in addition, plus, as if that weren’t enough, at least).

1. I like the house on Oak Street. a. , it’s in a good neighborhood.
   b. , it’s in a great school district, c. , it’s
   close enough to the school for the kids to walk. d. , the price is
   under our budget, and we’d have money for decorating. You’re right, it’s not really close to a
   shopping center, but e. , that’s not the most important thing to
   us. f. we have a reliable car for trips to the grocery store.


2. I hope you don’t choose a college on the other side of the country. a. ,
   we can’t afford out-of-state tuition. b. , the in-state tuition is much
   lower. c. , our state universities are among the best in the country.
   d. , think how expensive it would be for you to come home for
   holidays.

8 · 2

EXERCISE

Fill in each blank with in addition or besides, as appropriate.

1. I don’t want to go to school today. It’s really boring, and , I have a
   bad headache.


2. I didn’t enjoy the game. There wasn’t much action, and , we lost.


3. The birthday party was awesome! There was a clown who did really cool tricks, and
   , there was a huge chocolate cake.


4. I really want to move to New York. It has interesting neighborhoods, great restaurants, and
   fantastic museums. , you can get around easily on public
   transportation.


5. No, we can’t move to New York. It’s too far away from my family, it’s expensive, and
   , you don’t even have a job there!