state

the state of play (British & Australian)

the present situation. The article provides a useful summary of the current state of play in the negotiations. (often + in)

See also: play

state-of-the-art

state-of-the-art equipment and machines are the most modern and of the best quality available. State-of-the-art computer graphics show how your kitchen could be transformed.

turn king's/queen's evidence

if someone who has been accused of a crime turns king's evidence, they give information in a court of law about other people involved in the crime in order to have their own punishment reduced. She was given a lenient sentence in exchange for turning king's evidence.

See also: evidence, turn

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lie in state

to place a person's body where it can be seen by the public. The President's body lay in state in the Capitol for three days and thousands walked by his coffin to pay their respects.

See also: lie

a sad state of affairs

a bad situation that you find upsetting. It's a sad state of affairs when schools don't provide a basic education for their students.

Usage notes: sometimes used in the form a sad state: Things have reached a sad state when you have to pay a bribe to get something done.altho "sad state of affairs" is mainly spoken, "sorry state of affairs" is not--SL, 9/02

See also: sad

the state of play

the present situation. With the state of play on the battlefield the way it is, the rebels will not give up but will keep attacking.

See also: play