What feels illegal, but isn’t?
«…but isn’t?» — this is the essence of conversational language that uses shortening. The full phrase is but isn’t illegal?. By dropping the second illegal, the author uses the device of ellipsis (shortening). This gives the phrase speed, colloquial flair, and stylistic sharpness — as if the thought breaks off, and we ourselves must finish it. This is how people speak in living speech that does not adhere to formal structures.
Calling in sick when you’re actually sick. Phrasal Verb Explained.
«Calling in sick»: The fixed phrasal verb to call in sick means exactly “to notify your boss of your absence due to illness.” It’s not just “to call,” but to perform an official action.
«actually sick»: The word actually is not just “really,” but “in fact,” “in reality.” It carries a nuance of justification and contrast to some imagined scenario of deception (when you’re NOT sick).
