The Dubai airport set a record in January 2013 with more than 5 million passengers travelling through its halls in just one month. Dubai is ranked as the busiest airport in the world, serving more than 145 airlines.

too much on my plate

Paul: Do you want to join our neighborhood jogging club? We run together every Monday morning.

Kimberly: It sounds like fun, but I don't think I can find the time for it. I've got too much on my plate already.

Explanation: The phrase "too much on my plate" means that the person has already too many responsibilities and appointments. They don't have any energy or free time for any additional activities.

an epidural

Vanessa: How did your pregnancy go? Were there any complications?

Sophie: It basically went fine, but during the birth there were some complications with the epidural. The doctor had trouble getting the needle in the right spinal location.

Explanation: An "epidural" is a common short phrase for "epidural injection." An "epidural" is given by spinal injection to the spine in order to lessen the pain of childbirth.

Old Boys' Club

Dear Gilda:
I know that you want to be the first female member of our company's board of directors, but I think your chances of success are slim. It's an old boys' club. They will resist your efforts to join their circle.

Explanation: The phrase " old boy's club" or "old boys' network" means a group of men who have had business contacts for many years, (even from high school) and who don't want to accept people from outside of their group.