Vocabulary

to settle a matter; to get even with someone

to live together; to be close friends; to eat out of the same pot

triumphant (over a mediocre achievement); boastful; as if one had grabbed a demon by the neck

to visit repeatedly (to make a request)

to exaggerate; to embellish (a story, rumor, etc.)

to suck up to; to curry up to someone

a drowning man will clutch at a straw

to clear one's name

to get a good scolding

to dispel one's gloom; to brighten one's spirits; to dispel one's resentment; to clear up a grudge

to exercise parental authority

to guarantee (someone's ability or the quality of their work); to vouch for; to endorse

to return a favor (favour); to repay

to take the lead (of a group of people); to lead (a toast, cheer, etc.)

to demand gratitude; to do something for someone in order to create an obligation of gratitude from that person

to make one feel grateful

to be betrayed by a trusted follower

to celebrate one's recovery from illness

to speak flamboyantly

to crack jokes

to smile a smile of satisfaction

to make oneself known to the public; to become popular; to gain influence

to grant a person a moment

to use one's influence

to come face to face (with)

to keep up acquaintance

to touch up one's makeup

to make an appearance

to backbite

to steer a ship

on the strength of numbers

to deal with a large number

to go flying along; to move fast (against the wind)

to dodge (an attack, question, etc.); to sidestep; to evade

to swagger; to strut; to be confident; to have no worries

to take part in (usu. something bad); to be a party to; to have a hand in

to stand, walk, etc. shoulder-to-shoulder

to take a risk for someone; to endanger oneself for someone; to gather chestnuts from the fire

to make something look better; to put into (good, better) shape

do not let your guard down after a victory; tighten the strings of your helmet after winning