1. He is rather wise than sly (cunning). (He is rather a wise
man than a sly/cunning one.) 2. To be sure/Surely/Of course
your proposals are important/significant/meaningful in a way,
but they have nothing to do with the essence of the matter/the
crux of the m atter/the main point. 3. His speech is characterized
by lack of tact. (His speech lacks tact.) 4. If it is not stifling hot (If
there is no suffocating/stifling heat), we will set out on a journey/
on our journey as early as tomorrow morning. 5. What you
need is a complete lack of gossip. 6. It has nothing to do with me.
7. We agree that it is an acceptable solution to/of the problem
rather than a sensible way out. 8. This artist is talented in a way
but I don’t like his pictures. 9- A lack of time prevented the young
scientist from completing the experiment. 10. Your remarks
have nothing to do with the essence of her work. 11. What they
need is a calm, reliable person to head the department. 12. If you
hadn’t put so much salt into the water, the cucumbers wouldn’t
taste bitter. 13. I would describe/characterize him as an experienced
rather than a talented teacher. 14. The family’s lack of
money did not prevent her from going through college/from
obtaining higher education (formal).