India plans to boost its talents in science with the annual Indian Science Congress in Kerala, and an increase in science spending to 2% of GDP from the previous 0.8%. In comparison, China spends 1.5% of its GDP on science R&D.

Swipe your card

Ahmed: I want to buy this computer system and the software package. Can I pay for the items by credit card?

Michelle: Sure. Just swipe your card through the machine at the check-out counter and we'll give you a receipt.

Explanation: To swipe a card means to pass it through or over a machine, so that the machine can read the data. The phrase is used for credit cards, ID cards, and other such items.

invasive

Patient: Is the surgery going to mean that I'll have a big scar?

Doctor: The operation is invasive, but it only involves making a small incision, so don't worry - the scar will be very small.

Explanation: an invasive procedure means that the medical treatment involves making a cut in the skin or inserting something into the body. It means some type of surgery rather than just taking medicine.

the amount exceeds our budget.

Dear Juan:

We received your price estimate for remodeling the office. But I'm afraid that the amount exceeds our budget. Is it possible for your company to lower the price?

Explanation: Saying that an amount exceeds the budget is a soft and polite way of saying that the price is too high.