But the basic elements of vodka, gin, bitters, aperitif wine and citrus peel all come together, absent any shaking or even stirring.

BBC: James Bond��s London

Even the well off must shine (absent a seven- or eight-figure contribution to their kid's first-choice school): Their SAT and ACT scores must be in the superior range if they are to avoid the triage performed by the most selective colleges, inundated as they are with applications.

WSJ: Not for Dolts Anymore

Even absent definitive scientific proof of its effectiveness, many healthcare programmes offer arts activity as a therapy or health intervention.

BBC: Ageing well: Can dance and art keep the mind and body young?