The phrases in the list are from the book on WW I by Hew Strachan.
one’s opposite numbers
unspoken enmity
to leave someone in the lurch
procurement of quick-firing field artillery
striking power
to run one’s course
lax security
to be already in train
on weekdays
to be crippled in battles
beyond the purlieus of one’s immediate geographical waters
to take a jaundiced view
fly fishing
to cast aspersions on one’s ally
brinkmanship
to become a flashpoint for wider tensions
impeccable technique
to lob shells
screen detachments, or barrier troops
a long wearisome struggle
to be canvassed as chief of the general staff
to curb naval spendings
to impress the surviving members of the crew into service aboard the pirate ship
to decree a mild punishment
to head off further criticism of the government’s procurement policy
to be allied to mass production
