Street Talk 3

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To order the accompanying cassette for
STREET TALK· J
See the coupon on the last page for details
STREET TALK ·1
HOW TO SPEAK UNDERSTAND&
AMERICAN SLANG
STREET TALK·l
SLANG USED IN POPULAR
AMERICAN TELEVISION SHOWS
(PLUS LINGO USED BY TEENS, RAPPERS, & SURFERS.')
BIZ TALK·1
AMERICAN BUSINESS
SLANG & JARGON
BLEEP!
A GUIDE TO POPULAR
AMERICAN OBSCENmES
STREET TALK· J
THE BEST OF
AMERICAN IDIOMS
David Burke
Publisher: Optima Books
Editor: Robert Graul
Managing Editor: Debbie Wright
Editing. Design, and Production: Optima PrePress
Front Cover Illustration: Ty Semaka
Inside Iliustrations: Ty Semaka
This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in
regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the
publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional
services. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required. the services of a
competent professional person should be sought. FROM A DECLARATION OF
PRINCIPLES JOINTLY ADOPTED BY A COMMITTEE OF THE AMERICAN
BAR ASSOCIATION AND A COMMITTEE OF PUBLISHERS.
Copyright t': 1995 by David Burke
All rights reserved.
Reproduction or translation of any part of this work beyond that permitted by
section I 07 or I 08 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act without the permission
of the copyright owner is unlawful. Requests for permission or further information
should be addressed to the Permission Department, Optima Books.
Library of Congress Preassigned Catalog Card !\umber: 93-84787

ISBN 1-879440-12-1
Printed in the Cnited States of America
951098765432
This book is dedicated to my best friend Kim Isbister- a woman who
is trul:-· brilliant. channing. classy. hilarious. girted. and beautiful...
or so she tells rnc.
Preface
To the outsider, idioms seem like a confusing .. secret .. code reserved only for the
native speaker of English. Idioms are certainly tricky beasts because it is the sum of
all the \vords in the phrase which must he interpreted. not each word by itself. In
other words. the listener must never confuse the literal translation of an idiom with
the underlying meaning of what is really being expressed or symbolized. If you are
told "'Get me a pizza ... and step on it.'" you are not being instructed to go trample on
a round piece of cheesy bread. You are simply being told to hurry. since "step on it"
refers to "pressing dow·n on·· the accelerator of a car.
In addition, a common idiom such as ''to hend over bachvards" has nothing to do
with acrobatics or t1exibility. It's simply a colorful way of conveying that someone
has to exe11 a great deal of effort in order to do something.
example I bent over backwards trying to help Richard.
translation: I exerted a great deal of effort trying to help Richard.
In short. idioms are simply an imaginative and expressive way to communicate an

idea or thought. In order to he considered proficient in English, idioms must be
learned since they are consistently used in books, magazines, television, movies.
songs. American homes, etc.
For the non-native speaker, leaming the inf~rmation in STREET TALK -3 will equal
years of living in America and reduce the usual time it takes to absorb the intricacies
of slang and colloquialisms.
For the American, you're in for a treat as we explore the evolution and variations of
some of the most common and hilarious idiomatic expressions that have been with
us, and will stay with us through the years.
STREET TALK -3 is a self-teaching guide made up offow1een chapters, each divided

into four primary parts:
• DIALOGUE
Ten popular American idioms (indicated in boldface) are presented as they
may be heard in an actual conversation. A translation of the dialogue in
standard English is always given on the opposite page followed by an
important phonetic version of the dialogue as it \vould actually be spoken
by an American. This page will prove vital to any non-native since
Americans tend to rely heavily on contractions. reductions. and other
shortcuts in pronunciation.
vii
viii STREET TALK -3: THC BEST Of AMERICAN IDIOMS
• VOCABULARY
This section spot! ights all of the idioms that were used in the dialogue and
offers two examples of usage for each entry, including synonyms,
antonyms, and special notes.
• PRACTICE THE VOCABULARY

These \vord games include all of the idioms previously learned and will
help you to test yourself on your comprehension. (The pages providing the
answers to all the drills are indicated at the beginning of this section.)
• DICTATION (Test your oral comprehension)

Using an optional audio cassette (see coupon on back page), the student
will hear a paragraph containing many of the idioms from opening dialogue.
The paragraph will be read as it would actually be heard in a conversation,
using frequent contractions and reductions.
C!liD Some chapters offer a special section where the reader will be given an up
close look at common idioms pertaining to a specific category such as
alliterations, repeating words, proverbs, and survival idioms.
At the end of each five chapters is a review exam encompassing all of the words and
expressions learned up to that point.
lfyou have always prided yourself on being fluent in English, you will undoubtedly
be surprised and amused to encounter a whole new world of phrases usually hidden
away in the American-English language and usually reserved only for the native
speaker. . .until now!
David Burke
Author
STREET TALK -1: How to Speak & Understand American Slang focuses on
common slang and idioms used in everyday life. In addition, this first volume
provides the reader with a thorough understanding of the frequent contractions,
reductions and shortcuts in speech used by virtually every native speaker of English.
STREET TALK-!: Slang Used in Popular American Television Shows spotlights
some of the most popular slang terms used in American television. Topics inClude
slang and idioms used in today's television comedies, dramas, news reports, sports,
traffic reports, commercials. weather reports, general entertainment, etc.
Acknowledgments
An emormous. gargantuan. humongous . ..!Vlondo-thank Y0/1. 1 .. goes to .Jody Stern for
her ~uggestion and motivation to write a book solely on American idioms. Her
insight. enthusiasm. and creativity are. as always. highly valued.
I am ,·ery thankful to Ty Scmaka. our illustrator and cover artist. His creativity.
professionalism. and ability to produce exceptional images were astounding.
Once again. a special thank~ goes to Janet Graul. Vivian Margolin. and Debbie
\\'right for making the copy-editing phase of this hook so enjoyable. Their patience.
expertise. and attitude arc so appreciated.
I owe a special debt of gratitude to all of the people throughout the U.S. that I hounded
for information regarding <;lang. idioms. and gestures. I was always met with kindness
and an eagerness to offer a total stranger some. oftentimes bizarre. information.
And of course. "!hanks Ma.1 "
ix
Legend
boldface words in parentheses
are used before the main entry -
they appear after the main entry
for alphabetization purposes only:
i.e.~;:,: 1):.- ..,a ~~~(.· ..... .~~ t~'f' !;!t•::!
useful information about

the preceding entry ··;·.·· .. •·..
·
:. _,, ...
::.-·
.... ··
:··.·.
bracketed words in the main entry

are optional
an equivalent term or L-----£D:::t!I:Ii;:JI

expression of t!1p main entry r
in boldface
a term or expression opposite

in meaning of the main entry
in boldface
a common variation of the main

entry in boldface
X
Table of Contents
Preface . . . . . . vii
Chapters 1-1 0 Acknowledgements ix
Popular Idioms Legend . . . . . . x
Lesson 1 1
Dialogues . . . . . . . . 2
I'm sure they'll "give Vocabulary . . . . . . . 5
you a fair shake"
Practice the Vocabulary . 11
Lesson 2 17
Dialogues . . . . . . . . . 18
"It's as plain as Vocabulary . . . . . . . . 21
the nose on yourface"
Practice the Vocabulary . . 26
Lesson 3 31
Dialogues . . . . . . . . . 32
I think John's
Vocabulary . . . . . . . . 35
"getting coldfeet"
Lesson 4 47
Dialogues . . . . . . . . . 48
"Bite your tongue!" Vocabulary . . . . . . . . 51
Lesson 5 63
My house guest is Dialogues . . . . . . . . . 64
"eating me out of Vocabulary . . . . . . . . 67
house and home" Practice the Vocabulary . . 72
Review Exam for Lessons 1-5 77

Exercises . . . . . . . . . . 77
xi
xii STREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS
Lesson 6 85
Dialogues ...... . 86
"A bad hair day" Vocabulary . . . . . . . 89
Practice the Vocabulary 95
Lesson 7 101
Dialogues ...... . .102

Jodi's "getting
Vocabulary . . . . . . . 105
the hang of skiing"
Lesson 8 117

Paul's "eyes are bigger
Vocabulary . . . . . . . 121
than his stomach"
Lesson 9 131
Dialogues 132
I'm not going to "take
Vocabulary . . 135
this lying down"
Lesson 10 147

Sally is ''showing Vocabulary . . . . . . . 151
her true colors"
Review Exam for Lessons 6-10 161
Exercises . . . . . . . . . 161
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS xiii
Chapters 11·1lt
Specialty Idioms
Lesson 11 - Alliteration 170
Dialo,gues . . . . . . . 170
JcJffinds an Vocabulary . . . . . . 172
interesting
Practice the Vocabular~v 177
··kniclc-krlnck··
A Closer Look . . . . . 181
Lesson 12- Repeating Words 185

Dialogues . . . . . . . 186
Tom is going
Vocabulary . . . . . . 189
"toe-to· we··
with c>ueryonE'
i\ Closer !..Dok . . . . . 198
13 - Proverbs : . · 207
Dialogues . . . . . . . 208
··VVhen it rains Vocabulary . . . . . . 211
it pours'' Practice the Vocabulary 214
Lesson 14 - Survival Words & Phrases 233

Dialogues . . . . . . . 234
Vocabulary . . . . . . 237
"Freeze!"
:Review Exani for Lessons 11-14 253

Exercises 253
..-\r1s\vers 25R
~·APPENDIX· (Dictation) "_ .275:
\. ·,.'. ' . . . ~" - . "·' -.-- .... . 283

Lesson One • POPULAR IDIOMS
Bernie was always hoping for a "fair shake."
1
Lesson One - POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
I'm sure they'll ''give

you a fair shake''
DIALOCUE
Debbie and Valerie are at an audition for the school musical.
Debbie: I can't believe I let you talk me into auditioning for the school
musical. When I get this nervous, I can't carry·a tune. Look at
me! I'm breaking out in a cold sweat!
Valerie: Would you please stop going oft the deep end and try to get
a hold of yourself?
Debbie: You're right. I'm blowing this all out of proportion. It's just
that every time I audition for anything, I feel like I've been
put through a wringer when it's all over. I just want them
to give me a fair shake. That's all I ask.
Valerie: Hey, there's Nancy. She's the best singer in the entire school.
I didn't know she was going to audition for the same part as you.
Debbie: That does it! I'm leaving. I don't have a prayer.
2
Translation of dialogue in standard English
~~),
'(I
Debbie and Valerie are at an audition for the school musical.
Debbie: I can't believe I let you convince me to audition for the school
musical. When I get this nervous, I can't sins a melody on
pitch. Look at me! I'm starling to sweat from fear!
Valerie: Would you please stop panicking and try to set control of
yourself?
Debbie: You're right. I'm starling to think that this is more important
than it really is. It's just that every time I audition for anything,
I feel totally exhausted when it's all over. I just want them
to give me a fair chance. That's all I ask.
Valerie: Hey, there's Nancy. She's the best singer in the entire school.
I didn't know she was going to audition for the same part as you.
Debbie: That's alii can tolerate! I'm leaving. I don't have any chance
of succeeding.
3
Dialogue in slang as it would be heard
I'm sher they'll ''give

you a fair shake''
DIALOGUE a
Debbie 'n Valerie 'r ad 'n audition fer the school musical.
Debbie: I can't b'lieve I let chew talk me inta auditioning fer the
school musical. When I get this nervous, I can't carry a tune,
Look 'it me! I'm breaking oud 'n a cold :weat!
Valerie: Wouldju please stop goin' oH the deep end 'n try ta ged a
hold 'a yerself'?
Debbie: Y'r right. I'm blowin' this all oudda proportion. It's jus' thad
ev'ry time I audition fer anything, I feel like I've
been put through a wringer when it's all over. I jus' want
'em ta gimme a fair shake. That's all I ask.
Valerie: Hey, there's Nancy. She's thebes' singer 'n the entire school. I
did'n' know she was gonna audition fer the same pard as you.
Debbie: That does it! I'm leaving. I don' have a prayer.
AUTHOR NOTE
The reductions encountered above (as well as throughout the rest of this book)
are used by virtually every native-born American. It is also common among
many people to reduce the -ing ending to -in' such asjishin ', golfin ', lvalkin ',
etc. (I'm go in' fish in' today). However, it is important to note that the
reduction of -ing is considered to be somewhat unrefined.
STREET TALK ·l: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS 5
Vocabulary
blow something [all] out of proportion (to) exp. to exaggerate.
usage example {7). Mike's airplane trip was a little bumpy but he's been
telling everyone the airplane almost crashed! He sure
does blow everything [all] out of proportion.
tmnslation. Mike's airplane trip was a little bumpy but he's been
telling everyone the airplane almost crashed! He sure
does exaggerate.
usage example (2). Sam and Julie had a little disagreement. The way you
told me about it, I thought they were going to get
divorced! You sure have a tendency to blow things
[all] out of proportion!
translation.· Sam and Julie had a little disagreement. The way you
told me about it, I thought they were going to get
divorced! You sure have a tendency to exaggerate!
ti'Wo.'OMI to make something into a bigger deal than it is exp.
usage example· Why are you getting so upset just
because I'm two minutes late? You're
making this into a bigger deal than it is.
translation. Why are you getting so upset just
because I'm two minutes late? You're
exaggerating this entire situation.
break out in a cold sweat (to) exp. to begin perspiring suddenly

due to great fear or anxiety.
usage example {1). When I heard about the earthquake near my parents'
house, I broke out in a cold sweat.
translation. When I heard about the eatthquake near my parents'
house. I began perspiring suddenly (due to anxiety).
6 I'M SURE THEY'LL "GIVE YOU A FAIR SHAKE"
usage example {2). I broke out in a cold sweat when I saw the tornado
coming closer.
translaUon: I began perspiring suddenly from fear when I saw the
tornado coming closer.
rn:!Iill The expression "to break out" means "to develop (a
physical condition)."
usage example· I just broke out in a rash.
translaUon: I just developed a rash.
carry a tune (to) exp. said of someone who is able to sing on pitch.
usage example {1). I'm not really a singer but at least I can carry a tune.
translation. I'm not really a singer but at least I can sing on pitch.
usage example {2): You want Peter to join our choir? He can't carry a tune!
translation: You want Peter to join our choir? He can't sing on pitch!
fair shake (to give someone a) exp. to give someone the same fair
treatment as you would give to others.
usage example {7): Do you think the jury will give the defendant a fair
shake?
translaUon: Do you think the jury will give the defendant a fair
trial?
usage example {2): At the choir audition, I was only allowed to sing one
verse but Natalie was allowed to sing her entire song!
I don't think I got a fair shake.
translation. At the choir audition, I was only allowed to sing one
verse but Natalie was allowed to sing her entire song!
I don't think I was treated fairly.
get a hold of oneself (to) exp. to get control of one's emotions.

usage example {7): Ciet a hold of yourself! I've never seen you so upset
before!
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS 7
translation.· Get control of your emotions! I've never seen you so

upset before!
usage example (2} I'm not going to let her drive anywhere until she gets
a hold of herself. I don't think she can drive safely in
her current emotional state.
translation: I'm not going to let her drive anywhere until she gets
control of her emotions. I don't think she can drive
safely in her current emotional state.
ti'j:UJ(,'j,',IOEI to get a grip exp.
usage example: Get a grip!
transladon: Get control of yourself!
ti'VI•J.I''V.u9!1 to pull oneself together exp.
usage example: You've got to pull yourself together!
transladon. You've got to get control of your
emotions!
go off the deep end (to) exp. • 1. to become upset and irrational
• 2. to become crazy.
usage example (7): My teacher went off the deep end because I was late
to class again.
translation: My teacher got really upset because I was late to class
again.
usage example (2): After Mr. Fletcher's wife died, he went off the deep
end.
translation: After Mr. Fletcher's wife died, he went crazy.
ti'itt.Jt''j,',l to flip out exp.
usage example (7): Sandra flipped out when she saw her
boyfriend with another woman.
transladon.· Sandra became extremely upset when
she saw her boyfriend with another
woman.
usage example (2): Bernie was always a well respected

man. It was such a surprise when he
flipped out and committed murder!
translation.· Bernie was always a well respected
man. It was such a surprise when he
went crazy and committed murder!
I think Earl has finally gone "off the deep end."
prayer (not to have a) exp. to have no possibility of success in

something.
usage example (7) You don't have a prayer of beating Andy at chess.
trans/avon. You don't have any possibility of beating Andy at
chess.
usage example (2).' I don't have a prayer of passing my geometry test

tomonw,\'. I should have studied harder.
translauon: I don't have a possible chance of passing my geometry
test tomorTOVi. I should have studied harder.
1;1/i!t)Si.'.ll to have a [good] shot at something exp. to have a
[good] possibility at success in something.
usage example: Don't you think Dan has a shot at
getting the job?
translation. Don't you think Dan has a chance of
getting the job?
talk someone into something (to) exp. to convince someone to

do something.
usage example (1). Michelle said she didn't want to go \vith us to the
movies. Why don't you try and talk her into it? I just
know she'd have a good time.
translation: Michelle said she didn't want tp go with us to the

movies. Why don't you try to convince her? I just
know she'd have a good time. ·
usage example (2): You talked me into it. I' 11 give you one more chance
to take the test.
translation: You convinced me. I'll give you one more chance to
take the test.
r;llw1.'''iMI to talk someone out of something exp. to convince
someone not to do something.
usage example: I was going to accept the job position
of manager, but Earl talked me out of
it. He said it would be too much work
and long hours.
translation: I was going to accept the job position
of manager, but Earl convinced me not
to accept it. He said it would be too
much work and long hours.
''That does it!•• exp. "That's all I can tolerate!"

usage example (1): That does it! If you ever borrow anything from me
again without asking, you're in big trouble!
translation: That's all I can tolerate! If you ever borrow anything
from me again without asking, you're in big trouble!
usage example (2): My bicycle just broke again! That does it! I'm buying
a new one tomorrow.
translauon: My bicycle just broke again! That's all I can tolerate!
I'm buying a new one tomorrow.
ti'•,'t.Pi'A,',I ..That tears ill" exp.
usage example: That tean it! If the boss doesn't give
me a raise, I'm quitting!
translation: That's all I can tolerate! If the boss
doesn't give me a raise, I'm quitting!
STREET TALK -J: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS
,
through a/the wringer (to put someone) exp. to put someone
through a strenuous and emotional experience.
usage example (1): Why didn't you call to tell me you were going to be
three hours late coming home? I was so worried. You
really put me through a wringer!
translation: Why didn't you call to tell me you were going to be
three hours late coming home? I was. so worried. You
really caused me a great deal of emotional turmoil!
usage example (2): I was really put through the wringer at my job
interview. I had to fill out papers, meet dozens of
people, and do a presentation!
translation: I was really put through a strenuous experience at my
job interview. I had to fill out papers, meet dozens of
people, and do a presentation!
CI!lJll In the early days of washing machines, it was common
to put the laundry through a device known as a
"wringer" before hanging the clothing outside to dry.
This device was comprised of two rollers between
which the clothing was pressed, squeezing out any
excess water. The above expression, depicts someone
who is emotionally drained or "squeezed" dry.
Practice The Vocabulary

(Answers to Lesson ], p. 258)
A. Choose the correct phrase that best completes the

sentence or thought.
1. You talked me into it...
0 a. I don't want you to borrow my car.
0 b. I'll let you borrow my car.
0 c. You confused me.
2. Helen went off the deep end when ...

0 a. she won the car.
0 h. her boss gave her a raise.
0 c. she got fired.
3. I didn't get a fair shake at the job interview...

0 a. I was only interviewed for two minutes. _
0 b. The interviewer spent a lot of time with me.
0 c. I got hired right after the interview.
4. Bill can't carry a tune...

0 a. Let's ask him to sing at our wedding.
0 b. Let's find someone else to sing at our wedding.
0 c. He sings beautifully.
5. I broke out in a cold sweat when ...

0 a. I won the contest.
0 b. I heard the good news.
0 c. I heard the front door open in the middle of the night.
6. You don't have a prayer of winning the lottery...

0 a. Spend your money on something else.
0 b. Buy a ticket for me. too~
0 c. I think you're going to win!
7. That does it! ...

0 a. He gave me such a nice compliment.
0 b. He insulted me for the last time!
0 c. I'm so glad I came to this party.
8. I feel like I've been put through a wringer ...

0 a. It was so much fun!
0 b. What a great day·!
0 c. What a horrible day!
B. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Choose the idiom from the right column that goes with
the phrase in the left column.
01. You're going to ask Kim A. You're really blowing this

out on a date? [all] out of proportion.
02. When Bob went to apply

for a new job, he was only B. I've never seen anyone go
given a two-minute oH the deep end like that
interview. before.
03. You want Janet to join our

c. Okay. You talked me into
choir?
it. I' II see you tonight.
04. I know you want me to

reconsider and join you for D. That does it! I'm firing him
diner, but I have homework right now.
to do.
Os. I had a very hard day. E. I don't think he was given a

fair shake.
06. When Susan's cat died, she

cried for days and stopped
F. I feel like I've been put
eating.
through a wringer.
07. I can't believe how angry

you are that I forgot to close G. She can't even carry a tune!
the garage door!
Os. Is he making personal H. You don't have a prayer.

phone caiis on the job I don't think she even likes
again? you.
C. CROSSWORD
Fill in the crossword puzzle on the opposite page
by choosing the correct word(s) from the list below.
blowing prayer
cold sweat talk me into
deep that does it
fair shake tune
get a hold wringer
Across Down
12. My sister is a great 2. I broke out in a
singer, but I can't even when my car broke down in
carry a the worst part of the city.
19. I don't have a of 4. You're going to interview
being promoted. The Mike for a job? You don't
other candidate for the even like him. How can
promotion is the owner's you possibly give him
nephew. a ?
26. You don't have to 7. Craig went off the
doing you a favor. I'd be end when Joe dented his
happy to help you! car. I've never seen
anyone get so angry!
36. Why are you getting so
angry? It was an 12. ! I'm not going to
accident. I don't know tolerate this anymore!
why you're this
17. I've never been so worried
thing all out of
in my life. I feel like I've
proportion!
been put through a
24. I've never seen you so
upset before. You've got
to of yourself and
examine this problem
calmly.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
D. Complete the dialogue using the appropriate idioms

from the list below.
[all] out of proportion prayer
fair shake put through a wringer
get a hold of yourself talk me into
go off the deep end that does it
Peter: I've never seen you this angry before! You've got to
~(.11~~-------------.
... You've been
screaming at everyone all day. It's not like you to
~(...._2>~~----------'-----------like this.
16 I'M SURE THEY'LL 'GIVE YOU A FAIR SHAKE"
Greg: I know you must think I'm blowing everything
--'-!!3~----------------- but I wasn't
giVen a __.(.:!ltL)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ at my job interview today.
I never should have let you ....~(..,5'-4}_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ gomg .
Peter: ....~(..,6'-4}_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ! I'm tired of being blamed for
everything that happens to you!
Greg: I'm sorry. It's just that I feel like I've been _.(~7_._)_ _ __
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - · I guess I knew I
didn't have a ....~(..,8'-4)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ of getting
the job anyway.
E. DICTATION
Test Your Oral Comprehension
(This dictation can be found in Appendix A on page 2 7 5).
If you are following along with your cassette, you will now hear a paragraph
containing many of the idioms from this section. The paragraph will be read
by a native speaker at normal conversational speed (which may seem fast
to you at first). In addition, the words will be pronounced as you ~vould
actually hear them in a conversation, including many common reductions.
The first time the paragraph is presented, simply listen in order to get
accustomed to the speed and heavy use of reductions. The paragraph will
then be read again with a pause after each group of words to give you time
to write down what you heard. The third time the paragraph is read, follow
along with what you have written.
Lesson Two - POPULAR IDIOMS
"It's as plain as the nose on your face!"
17
Lesson Two - POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
''It's as plain as the

nose on your face!''
DIALOGUE
Dave and Brad are standing outside the library when they notice Joe.
Dave: Hey, there's Joe. I wonder why he's walking arm in arm with
that young woman.
Brad: It's as plain as the nose on your face. They're going together.
Dave: You're pulling my leg! She must be twenty years younger than
Joe. Talk about robbing the cradle!
Brad: Well, you can bet this relationship's going to be a flash in the pan.
Dave: It must have been love at first sight because I know he didn't
have a girlfriend last week.
Brad: I think you hit the nail on the head. Actually, my father
popped the question to my mother after knowing her only
two weeks. They tied the knot a month later!
18
Lesson Two • POPULAR IDIOMS
Translation In Standard English
DIALOGUE
Dave and Brad are standing outside the library when they notice Joe.
Dave: Hey, there's Joe. I wonder why he's walking with his arm
interlocked in that young woman's arm.
Brad: It's very obvious. They're dating each other.
Dave: You're kidding! She must be twenty years younger than Joe.
Talk about dating someone much younger than you!
Brad: Well, you can bet this relationship's going to be temporary.
Dave: It must have been a case of falling in love at the first encounter
because r know he didn't have a girlfriend last week.
Brad: I think you're absolutely right. Actually, my father proposed

to my mother after knowing her only two weeks. They got
married a month later!
19
Lesson Two • POPULAR IDIOMS
''It's ez plain ez the

nose on yer face!''
DIALOGUE a
Dave 'n Brad 'r standing outside the library when they nodice Joe.
Dave: Hey, there's Joe. I wonder why 'e'z walking arm 'n arm with
that young woman.
Brad: It's ez plain ez the nose on yer face. They're going tagether.
Dave: Y'r pulling my leg! She mus' be twen'y years younger th'n Joe.
Talk about robbing the cradle~
Brad: Well, you c'n bet this relationship's gonna be a flash 'n the pan.
DaFe: It must've been love 'it firs' sight b'cause I know 'e didn't have
a girlfriend last week.
Brad: I think ya hit the nail on the head. Akshelly, my father popped
the question ta my mother after knowing 'er only two weeks.
They tied the knod a month Iader!
20
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERIC'-\N IDIOMS
Vocabulary
as plain as the nose on one·s face (to be) exp. to be obvious.
usage example {7): I can't believe you have no idea who stole the money
from your office. It's as plain as the nose on your face!
translation: I can't believe you have no idea who stole the money
from your oftice. It's obvious!
usage example {2): How can you tell me you don't know why she's mad
at you? It's as plain as the nose on your face. You
forgot her birthday.
translation: How can you tell me you don't know why she's mad
at you? It's obvious. You forgot her birthday.
flash in the pan (to be a) exp. to be quick and temporary.

usage example {7): His success was only a flash in the pan.
translation: His success was only quick and temporary.
usage example {2): Steve's acting career was a flash in the pan.
translation: Steve's acting career was quick and temporary.
go together (to) exp. to be dating on a steady basis (said of two people

in a relationship).
usage example {7): Jan and Paul are getting married? I didn't even know
they were going together!
translation: Jan and Paul are getting mapied? I didn't even know
they were dating each other!
usage example (2). After going together for almost three years, Mark and
Stephanie just ended their relationship.
translation. After dating each other for almost three years, Mark
and Stephanie just ended their relationship.
II "IT'S AS PLAIN AS THE NOSE ON YOUR FACE"
hit the nail [right] on the head (to) exp. to be absolutely correct.
usage example (1): "How did he get to be promoted to supervisor? His
father must be the president of the company."
"I think you hit the nail [right) on the head!"
translation: "How did he get to be promoted to supervisor'? His
father must be the president of the company."
"I think you're absolutely correct!
usage example {2): When you called him a liar, I think you hit the nail
on the head.
translation: When you called him a liar, I think you were
absolutely correct.
usage example: You were dead on when you said not

to trust her. She stole hundreds of
dollars from the company!
translation: You were absolutely correct when you
said not to trust her. She stole hundreds
of dollars from the company!
r;!.'HI1MMI to be way off base exp. to be absolutely incorrect.

usage example: If you think David's going to give you
a present, you're way off base.
translation. If you think David's going to give you
a present, you're absolutely wrong.
love at first sight (to be) exp. said of a situation where two people
fall in love upon first glance.
usage example (1): With my mom and dad, it was love at first sight.
translation: With my mom and dad, they fell in love as soon as
they saw each other.
usage example (2): I know I've only known Marsha for a day, but I think
we're going to get married some day. It was love at
first sight for both of us.
STREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF AMERICAI'j IDIOMS 23
translation- I know I've only known Marsha for a day, but I think
we're going to get married some day. We fell in love
as soon as we saw each other.
"Love at first sight ... "
pop the question (to) exp. to propose marriage.

usage example (1). I think Steve is finally going to pop the question
tonight!
translation: I think Steve is finally going to propose tonight!
usage example {2): Allen walked right into my office and popped the
question!
translatJon: Allen walked right into my office and asked me to
marry him!
pull someone's leg (to) exp. to kid someone; to tease.

usage example (1). You just found five hundred dollars? Are you pulling
my leg?
translation. You just found five hundred dollars? Are you kidding
me?
24 "IT'S AS PLAIN AS THE NOSE ON YOUR FACE.
usageexample(2): Mitch got a promotion? You're pulling my leg.

translation Mitch got a promotion? You're kidding me.
rob the cradle (to) exp. to date someone much younger than oneself,
to be dating a "baby."
usage example (7]· Karen's date is young enough to be her son. She
certainly is robbing the cradle!
translation: Karen's date is young enough to be her son. She
certainly is dating someone much younger!
usage example (2]· Carol is much younger than you think. Believe me,
you're robbing the cradle.
translation: Carol is much younger than you think. Believe me,
you're dating someone who's much younger than you.
STREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS 25
tie the knot (to) exp. to get married.

usage example (7): Nancy and Dominic are going to tie the knot next
week.
translaljon: Nancy and Dominic are going to get married next
week.
usage example (2): This is the third time Jack's tied the knot.
translaljon: This is the third time Jack's gotten married.
ti'i1!111fiMI to get hitched exp. • (lit); to tie together.
usage example: I'm getting hitched tomorrow!
translation: I'm getting married tomorrow!
walk arm in arm (to) exp. to walk with one's arm curled through
someone else's arm; arms linked or intertwined.
usage example(!): I think they're best friends. They always walk arm in
arm everywhere they go.
translaljon: I think they're best friends. They always walk with
their arms linked.
usage example (2): In Europe, it's very common to see women walking
arm in arm.
translaljon: In Europe, it's very common to see women walking
with their arms intertwined.
I:I:lii]l SEE: A CLOSER LOOK: More Repeating Words,
p. 198
26 "IT'S AS PLAIN AS THE NOSE ON YOUR FACE"
Practice The Vocabulary Ell

(An.nvers to Lesson 2, p. 259)
A. Are the following idioms used correctly or incorrectly?
1. She wins every contest she enters. Her luck is a flash in the pan.
D correct usage D incorrect usage
2. You're wrong. You hit the nail on the head.

3. Steve just popped the question! He asked me to marry him!

4. Sarah and Bill tied the knot yesterday. Did you go to their
wedding?
5. I think Jim's robbing the cradle. He's dating someone twice

his age.
6. Did you knov,; that Gordon and Jeannie are going together?
Maybe they'll get married some day.
7. The explanation isn't clear at all. It's as plain as the nose on

your face.
8. He's always pulling my leg. He never jokes.

. TREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS !7
B. Choose the correct answer from the list below.

a flash in the pan robbing the cradle
as plain as the nose on your face to pop the question
going together to tie the knot
hit the nail on the head to walk arm in arm
love at first sight you·re pulling my leg
I. Something quick and temporary is called:
Answer: _______._ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
2. When two people are dating, they are:

Answer: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
3. What is an idiom for "to ask someone to get married?"

Answer: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
4. When two people fall in love after seeing each other for the first
time, this is called:
Answer: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
5. A person who dates someone much younger is said to be:

Answer: ____________________
6. If something is obvious, it is:

Answer: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
7. What is an idiom for "to get married?"

Answer: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
28 "IT'S AS PLAIN AS THE NOSE ON YOUR FACE"
8. What is a good response to give someone who is teasing you?

Answer: ____________________
9. When you guess something exactly, you have:

Answer:, ____________________
I 0. Another way of saying "to walk with an am1 linked through

another person's mm" is:
Answer: ____________________
C. Underline the word that best completes the phrase.

I. That's right! You hit the nail on the (head, foot, arm).
2. You're dating someone so young! People are going to say you're

(stealing, robbing, taking) the cradle.
3. You don't know what the solution is to the problem? It's as plain
as the (eye, mouth, nose) on your face!
4. You're getting married? When did Greg (explode, burst, pop)

the question?
5. Nancy had triplets? You're pulling my (hair, arm, leg)!
6. His career isn't going to last long. It's going to be nothing more
than a flash in the (pan, skillet, pot).
7. They fell in love as soon as they saw each other. It was love at
(first, second, third) sight.
8. I heard you're getting married. So, when are you going to (lace,
tie, fasten) the knot'?
D. Choose the definition of the idiom in boldface.

1. Are you pulling my leg? Mark was just voted class president?
0 a. trying to hurt me
0 b. kidding me
0 c. trying to get my attention
2. We're going to tie the knot next week.
0 a. to quit our job
0 b. to find a new job
0 c. to get married
3. I think you hit the nail on the head.

0 a. are absolutely conect
0 b. are absolutely wrong
0 c. arc totally confused
4. It's as plain as the nose on your face!
0 a. obvious
0 b. not very obvious
0 c. a ridiculous situation
5. Did you see the girl he's dating? He's definitely robbing the cradle.
0 a. dating someone a lot younger than he is
0 b. dating someone a lot smarter than he is
0 c. dating someone a lot older than he is
6. Their relationship's going to be a flash in the pan.

0 a. long-lasting
0 b. temporary
0 c. exciting
7. We've been going together for three years.

0 a. manied
0 b. fighting
0 c. dating each other
8. Did Steve finally pop the question?

0 a. ask an unexpected question
Db. propose marriage
0 c. start dating someone much younger
Lesson Three • POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
I think John's
"getting cold feet!"
DIALOGUE
John just wrecked his father's car.
Ste1'e: You've got to break the news to your father about wrecking his
car. He'll understand it wasn't your fault. Your father's got a
good head on his sh«"Julders. I'm sure he'll let you oH the hook.
John: Are you kidding? He's going to fly oH the handle. Do you know
how much money he had to fork over for this car?
Stn·e: Well, you're going to have to face the music eventually.
John: You're right. I'm going right inside and come clean with him. On
second thought, why don't you tell him for me'? I've got cold feet.
Ste1·e: Don't >vorry. If worse comes to worst, you can just work three
jobs for the rest of your life to pay him back!
Lesson Three· POPULAR IDIOMS
Translation In Standard English
DIALOGUE
John just wrecked his father's car.
Steve: You've got to announce to your father delicately about

wrecking his car. He' 11 understand it wasn't your fault. Your
father's very rational. I'm sure he won•t hold you responsible.
John: Arc you kidding? He's going to be furious. Do you know how
much money he had to spend for this car?
Steve: Well, you're going to have to confront theJituation eventually.
John: You're right. I'm going right inside and be honest with him. Upon
reconsideration, why don't you tell him for me'? I lost courage.
Stel'e: Don't worry. In the worst possible case, you can just work three
jobs for the rest of your life to pay him back!
33
Lesson Three- POPULAR IDIOMS
I think John's
"gedding cold feet!"
DIALOGUE a
John just wrecked 'is father's car.
Steve: You gotta break the news ta ycr father about wrecking 'is car.
He'll understand it wasn' cherfault. Yer father's god a good
head on 'is shoulders. I'm shcr 'c'lllet chew off the hook.
John: Are you kidding? He's gonna fly off the handle. Do you know
how much money he had ta fork over fer this car?
Steve: Well, y'r gonna haf ta face the music avenchally.
John: Y'r right. I'm going ride inside 'n come clean with 'im. On secon·
thought, why don' chew· tell 'im for me? I've got cold feet.
Steve: Don't worry. If wors' comes ta worst, you c'njus' work three
jobs fer the rest' a ycr life ta pay 'i m back!
Vocabulary
break the .news to someone (to) exp. to disclose sensitive and
emotional information to someone.
usage example (7): The veterinarian just called and told me my brother's
dog died. I don't know how I'm going to break the
news to him.
translation: The veterinarian just called and told me my brother's
dog died. I don't know how I'm going to disclose such
emotional information to him.
usage example (2): I just ruined my father's favorite sweater. I guess I'd
better go break the news to him before he finds out
from someone else.
translation: I just ruined my father's favorite sweater. I guess I'd
better go disclose that to him before he finds out from
someone else.
cold feet (to get) exp. to lose courage.

usage example (1): I was going to ask my boss for a raise but as soon as
I saw him, I got cold feet.
translation: I was going to ask my boss for a raise but as soon as
I saw him, I lost courage.
usage example (2): I know you asked me to tell Matt he's fired, but I just
couldn't. I got cold feet.
translation: I know you asked me to tell Matt he's fired, but I just
couldn't. I lost courage.
come clean (to) exp. to be honest (and confess the truth).

usage example {7): Come clean with me. Did you borrow my car while I
was out of town?
I THINK JOHN'S 'GETIING COLD FEET
translation. Be honest with me. Did you borrow my car while I

was out of town?
usage example (2)' Did you come clean with the teacher about cheating
on the test?
trans/avon Did you confess to the teacher about cheating on the
test?
face the music (to) exp. to confront an uncomfortable situation.

usage example OJ Our house guest has stayed with us an extra two weeks
and he's making us crazy. I've been avoiding asking
him to leave but I think it's finally time to face the
music.
translation: Our house guest has stayed with us an extra two weeks
and he's making us crazy. I've been avoiding asking
him to leave but I think it's finally time to confront
the situation.
usage example {2) You really should tell your mother what you did.
You're going to have to face the music eventually.
trans/a/Jon. You really should tell your mother what you did.
You're going to have to confront the situation
eventually.
fly oft the handle (to) exp. to lose one's temper.

usage example (1) My father flew off the handle \vhen the neighbor's
dog started barking in the middle of the night.
translation: My father lost his temper when the neighbor's clog
started barking in the middle of the night.
usage example (2) Susan flew off the handle because I was five minutes
late.
translauon Susan lost her temper because I was five minutes late.
\
)
Manny "flew off the handle" trying to

learn a new computer program.
fork over (to) exp. to pay for something.

usage example (1): How much money did you have to fork over for that
new car?
translation How much money did you have to pay for that nev.·
car?
usage example (2): I had to fork over two hundred dollars to buy this
dress.
translation. I had to pay two hundred dollars to buy this dress.
C!IJll to fork over exp. to give.
usage example That's mine! Fork it over!
translaUon. That's mine! Give it to me!
38 I THINK JOHN'S "GETTING COLD FEET"
have a good head on one·s shoulders (to) exp. said of

someone who is very intelligent and rational.
usage example (7): Tom has a good head on his shoulders. I'm sure he'll
make the right decision about which house to buy.
translation: Tom is very intelligent and rational. I'm sure he'll
make the right decision about which house to buy.
usage example (2): I'm promoting you to the position of manager. I've
been looking for someone with a good head on his
shoulders for a long time.
translation: I'm promoting you to the position of manager. I've
been looking for someone who is very intelligent and
rational for a long time.
"If worse comes to worst ... •• exp. "In the worst possible case ... "
usage example (7): I'm sure we'll be able to get a ticket on the airplane.
Besides, if worse comes to wont, we can always take
a train.
translation: I'm sure we'll be able to get a ticket on the airplane.
Besides, in the ~orst possible case, we could always
take a train.
usage example (2): I hope I remembered to pack my shoes for my trip!

Oh, well. If worse comes to worst, I'll just buy some
new ones when I arrive.
translation: I hope I remembered to pack my shoes for my trip!
Oh, well. In the worst possible case, I'll just buy some
new ones when I arrive.
ti'J.'[t!:rn!l "If push comes to shove" exp.
let someone oft the hook (to) exp. to release someone of

responsibility.
usage example (1): I know you broke my watch by accident, so I'm going
to let you off the hook. Just be careful next time.
translation: I know you broke my watch by accident, so I'm not
going to hold you responsible. Just be careful next time.
usage example (2) The police officer let Greg off the hook because it
was Greg's first offense.
trans/a/Jon. The police officer did not charge Greg because it was
his first offense.
I1IlliD This expression may also be shortened to to let some-
one off exp.
usage example. I'll let you off this one time.
translation I'll release you of responsibility this
one time.
ti'Wn:i'j.',tl to let someone slide exp.
on second thought exp. upon reconsideration.

usage example (7): I think I'll buy this suit right now. On second thought,
I'd better wait until I have more money.
translation. I think I'll buy this suit right now. Upon recon-
sideration, I'd better wait until I have more money.
usage example (2) I think I'll go to Paris on my summer vacation. On

second thought, I'll go to Switzerland.
tJanslation: I think I'll go to Paris on my summer vacation. Upon
reconsideration, I' II go to Switzerland.
Practice the Vocabulary II!!

(Answers to Lesson 3, p. 260)
A. Fill in the blank with the corresponding letter of the

word that best completes the phrase.
I. Don't \vorry. I'm sure Ed will handle the situation calmly. He

has a good on his shoulders.
a. neck b. head c. clavicle
40 I THINK JOHN'S "GETIING COLD FEET'
2. You're going to have to tell your father that you wrecked his car.
There he is now! I guess it's time to the music.
a. neck b. mouth c. face
3. When are you going to ___ the news to your sister that her cat
ran away?
a. break b. fracture c. smash
4. I hope \Ve don't miss our bus. I suppose if worse comes

to , we can always leave tomom)\V instead.
a. worse b. worst c. worsen
5. I was ready to confront him but when I saw how big he was, 1 got
cold _ __
a. teeth b. arms c. feet
6. l'll let you off the this time. But I hope this is the last
time you ever forget one of our appointments.
a. hook b. look c. book
7. You· ve got to come ___ with me and tell me what happened.

a. dirty b. filthy c. clean
~. How much money did you _ _ over for that jacket'?

a. spoon b. fork c. knife
9. Let's go to the movies. On second ___ . let's go bowling.

a. thought b. idea c. opinion
I 0. Bob got so angry yesterday. I've never seen him tly off the
___ like that before!
a. handle b. knob c. dial
B. Complete the phrases by choosing the appropriate

idiom from the list below.
break the news if worse comes to worst
cold feet off the hook
come clean on second thought
face the music to fly off the handle
head on his shoulders to fork over
1. I w·on't get angry as long as you _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ with ·me.

Are you the one \vho took my bicycle this morning?
2. I'm going to buy this blue dress. ____________

I think I'll buy the red one instead.
3. I'm sure the cake you're baking will be perfect. Besides, _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Vie can always buy one at the market.
4. I should have been home an hour ago. I know my mother's going

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ as soon as I walk in the door.
Well, I guess I'd better _ _ __
5. I knmv I said I was going to the singing audition today. hut I got
6. Jack kne\v exactly what to do after our car accident. He certainly

has a good _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
7. I'll let you _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ . But if you C\'Cr disobey me

again. you're going to be in big trouble.
8. Did you _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ to your sister yet about

her car being stolen'!
9. I can "t bel ieYc how much money you had - - · · ·

for th~tt old C<tr~ I thin I,. you \\·ere O\ crchargcd.
I THINK JOHN'S 'GffiiNG COLD FEET'
C. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Replace the word(s) in italics on the left with the
correct phrase from the column on the right.
I. Let's go to the movies. Upon A. let you off the hook
reconsideration, _ _ _ _ __
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ I've already
B. break the news
been to the movies twice this week.
C. face the music
2. Andy was honest with me and
admitted _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
D. if worse comes to
that he stole my wallet. worst
E. came clean
3. In the worst possible case,
we can leave tomorrO\v instead of F. to fork over
today.
G. on second thought
4. I'm sea red
H. I've got cold feet

STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS
5. You have to be honest with him. A. let you off the hook
It's time to confront this
unpleasant situation _ _ _ __
B. break the news
c. face the music

6. Did your fatherforgive you
for ruining his car? I've never

D. if worse comes to
seen anyone so angry before! worst
E. came clean
7. Who's going to _ _ _ _ __
_________________ toEd
that his car was stolen?

F. to fork over
8. Your television set is broken G. on second thought
again? How much did you have
to pay _________ for
that, anyway? H. 1·ve got cold feet

ltlt I THINK JOHN'S' GETTING COLD FEET'
D. WORD SEARCH
Circle the words in the grid (on the opposite page)
that complete the following idiomatic expressions.
Words may be spelled up, down or diagonally. The
first one has been done for you.
1. ..if worse comes to ___ .. exp. "In the worst possible case."
2. the news to someone (to) exp. to disclose sensitive and

emotional information to someone.
3. cold (to get) exp. to become cowardly and scared.
4. come (to) exp. to be honest (and confess the truth).
5. face the (to) exp. to confront an uncomfortable situation.
6. fly off the (to) exp. to lose one's temper.
7. ·--over (to) exp. to pay for something.
8. have a good head on one's _ _ (to) exp. said of someone

\vho is very intelligent and rational.
9. let someone off the ___ (to) exp. to release someone of a

responsibility·.
I 0. on second--·_ exp. upon reconsideration.

STREET TALK -3: THE BEST Or AMERICAN IDIOMS 45
WORD SEARCH
N A R K 0 w M u s c N A B
T B c; B u B B L T B T u B R
H u c 0 H c H c K R c E T E
0 c 0 D X 0 A R w c L B D A
u K E s H 0 u L D E R s K
c; L 0 0 N F F K c; B A N F F
H A N D L E L F G c N K u F
T L c 0 v E R H B H K E E E
F P (w 0 R s T) T L E B u T E
E R p J p u s H E R J L p T
46 I THINK JOHN'S· GffiiNG COLD FEET
E. DICTATION E!!J
by a native speaker at normal conversational speed (\.vhich may seem fast
to you at first). In addition, the \vords will be pronounced as you would
actuall.v hear them in a conversation, including many common reductions.
accustomed to the speed and heavy usc of reductions. The paragraph will
to \vrite down what you heard. The third time the paragraph is read, follmv
Lesson Four - POPULAR IDIOMS
How can you say that?!

"Bite your tongue!"
lt7
Lesson Four- POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
"Bite your tongue!"
DIALOGUE
Janet sees Anne's triplets for the first time.
Janet: Are these your triplets? They're beautiful! I've seen other babies
who were nothing but skin and bones at their age. You know,
they're the spitting image of you and John! Are you planning on
having any more?
Anne: Bite your tongue! I'm already at the end of my rope. Some
nights I don't sleep a wink. John manages to sleep like a
log even when the babies are screaming at the top of their lungs.
Janet: Well, tell me. How was the labor and delivery?
Anne: I wouldn't say that I had the time of my life but at least
everything went without a hitch.
Janet: Well, hang in there. In twenty years. you'll feel it \Vas \veil
worth it~
48
Lesson Four - POPULAR IDIOMS
DIALOGUE
Janet sees Anne's triplets for the first time.
Janet: Are these your triplets'? They're beautiful! I've seen other babies
who were extremely thin at their age. You know, they're
absolutely identical to you and John! Are you planning on
having any more?
Anne: Stop saying such things~ I'm already at the limit of what I can
tolerate. Some nights I don't sleep at all. John manages to sleep
deeply even when the babies are screaming as loudly as they can.
Janet: WelL tell me. How was the labor and delivery?
Anne: I wouldn't say that I had the best possible time but at least
everything \Vent without any problems.
Janet: Well, don't give up. In twenty years, you'll feel it was well
worth it~
49
Lesson Four- POPULAR IDIOMS
''Bite ch 'r tongue!''
DIALOGUE Ell
Janet sees Anne's triplets fer the firs' time.
Janet: Are these yer triplets? They're beaudif' I! I've seen other babies
who were nothing b"t skin 'n bones at their age. Ya know,
they're the spit ·n image'v you 'n John! Are you planning on
having any more?
Anne: Bite ch'r tongue! rm already at the end 'a my rope. Some
nights I don't sleep a wink. John manages ta sleep like a log
even when the babies 'r screaming at the top ·a their lungs.
Janet: Well, tell me. How was the labor 'n delivery?
Anne: I wouldn' say thad I had the time ·a my life bud 'it least
ev'rything went withoudda hitch.
Janet: Well, hang in there. In twen'y years, you'll feel it was well
worth it!
50
Vocabulary
at the end of one·s rope (to be) exp. to be at the limit of what
one can tolerate.
usage example (1): I've taken my car to the mechanic five times this
month and it just stopped working again. I'm at the
end of my rope!
translauon: I've taken my car to the mechanic five times this
month and it just stopped working again. I can't
tolerate it any more.
It was only Monday and lrv was already

"at the end of his rope."
BITE YOUR TONGUE!'
usage example (2]· I"ve tried everything to solve this problem but I just
can't find a solution. I'm at the end of my rope.
trans:atcJn I'\ e tried everything to solve this problem but I just can't
r
find a solution. mat the limit ohvhat I can tolerate.
at the top of one's lungs (to scream) e.\]7. to scream as loudly

as one can.
usage example {l) When Cecily saw the attacker. she screamed at the
top of her lungs. Luckily. that scared him away.
:rans!at.'on. Vv'hen Ceci ly s;nv the attacker. she screamed as loudly
as she could. Luckily. that scared him away.
usage exa.rnole (2) The music at the party was so loud that \Ve all had to
scream at the top of their lungs.
!ranslaoon. The music at the part.y was so loud that we all had to
scream as loudly as we could.
~ Any synonym of the verb .. to \cream" could be used
in this expression such as "to y•:\1.'' "to shout," "to
holler.'' etc.
bite one's tongue (to) e.\p. (figurative) to keep oneself from verbally
attacking someone.
usage example (i) Our new client is so aiTogant and insulting. I have to
bite my tongue around her.
trans!atron. Our new client is so arrogant and insulting. I have to
stop myself from verbally attacking her.
usage eonpie (?) If the boss says something you don't like during the
meeting. bite your tongue or you may get fired~
iransi<mon If the hoss says something you don't like during the
meeting. stop yourself from \erbally attacking him
you may get fired~
~ "Bite your tongue!" e.rv "Don· t C\ en suggest the
possibility of somethin!! so dreadful happening~"
usag~::exnmp!e. "Your house guc~t may llC\er leave."
"Bite your tongue~ ..
translation: "Your house guest may never leave."

"Don't even suggest the possibility of
something so dreadful happening!''
go [oft] without a hitch (to) exp. said of a project or event that

proceeds smoothly.
usage example {7): Last night was the first time I ever made dinner for
my entire family. I have to admit that it went [off]
without a hitch.
transla[jon: Last night was the first time I ever made dinner for
my entire family. 1 have to admit that there were no
problems at all.
usage example (2): I hope my party goes without a hitch tomorrow.

tmns/ation: I hope there are no problems at my party tomorrow.
ti'Wnan!l to go without a snag exp. ["snaf(' =(lit); a break or
tear in fabric].
hang in there (to) exp. • 1. to wait patiently • 2. to be strong and

persevere.
usage example {7): I' II be over to get you in about an hour, -so just hang
in there.
translation: I'll be over to get you in about an hour, so just wait
patiently.
usage example (2): Don't worry. Our aerobics class is almost over. Hang
in there another five minutes,
translation: Don't worry. Our aerobics class is almost over. Be
strong and persevere another five minutes.
have the time of one·s life (to) exp. to have the best time in one's
life.
usage example (7): I had the time of my life at your patty last night!
translauon: I had the best time ever at your party last night~
54 'BITE YOUR TONGUE!"
usage example (2). We had the time of our lives yesterday at the
amusement park!
translation.· We had the best time ever at the amusement park!
The employees at Burke & Burke are

having "the time of their lives" now
that the boss is on vacation!
nothing but skin and bones (to be) exp. to be excessively thin.
usage example (1): You're nothing but skin and bones! Eat something!
translation: You're so thin! Haven't you been eating well?
usage example (2). He's lost so much weight on his new diet that now
he's nothing but skin and bones.
translation: He's lost so much weight on his new diet that now
he's excessively thin.
sleep a wink (not to) exp. not to sleep at all.

usage example (1): I didn't sleep a wink last night.
translalion: I didn't sleep at all last night.
usage example {2): The neighbors were making so much noise last night
that I didn't sleep a wink.
translalion: The neighbors were making so much noise last night
that I didn't sleep at all.
sleep like a log (to) exp. to sleep soundly.

usage example OJ I slept like a log last night.
translation: I slept soundly last night.
usage example {2): I was awake all night worrying about work but George
slept like a log.
translalion: I was awake all night worrying about work but George
slept soundly.
spitting image of someone (to be the) exp. to be identical to

someone.
usage example {7): She's the spitting image of her mother.
translalion: She looks just like her mother.
usage example {2): They're the spitting image of each other.

translalion: They're identical to each other.
mliill This expression is commonly pronounced "to be the
spit'n image ofsmneone."
11/;l:lt;WI)I!I to be the spit and image of someone exp.
usage example: He's the spit and image of his father.
translation: He looks just like his father.
56 "BITE YOUR TONGUE!"
Practice the Vocabulary El!l

(Ans1vers to Lesson 4, p. 261)
A. CROSSWORD
Fill in the crossword puzzle on the opposite page by
choosing the correct word(s) from the list below.
hang skin and bones
hitch spitting
like a log time
lungs tongue
rope wink
Across Down
4. Our theater production 7. I know you're not enjoying
went without a _ __ your house guest, but just
We didn't have a single try to in there for
problem! one more day. He leaves
tomonow.
13. Your daughter is the
_ _ image of you! 9. Have you been on a diet'?
You're nothing but _ __
17. My throat is sore today.
Yesterday \Ve all went to 12. I didn't sleep a all
a football game and night. I was wonying about
screamed at the top of my English test.
our _ _
18. My dog ran a\vay yesterday
22. Bite your ! How and I've tried everything I
could you say such a can to find him. I'm at the
thing? endofmy _ _
25. I feel so rested. I slept 24. We had the ___ of our

_ _ last night. lives at your party last
night.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
B. Choose the phrase that best fits the idiom.

1. You're nothing but skin and bones.
0 a. Have you been sick?
0 b. Have you been overeating?
0 c. You must be sleeping well.
2. Hang in there!
0 a. Have you been sick?
0 b. You look so well rested!
0 c. The office will close in one hour and you can go home.
3. I had the time of my life at Bob's house.

0 a. I never want to go back there again.
0 b. I'm looking forward to going back there again soon.
0 c. What a terrible party!
4. Bite your tongue!
0 a. I can't believe how much you look like your father.
0 b. Everything went so smoothly at work yesterday.
0 c. How can you say such a thing'?
5. Steve is the spitting image of his father.

0 a. Steve looks just like his father.
0 b. Steve doesn't look at all like his father.
0 c. Steve drew a picture of his father.
6. I slept like a log last night.

0 a. I hope I don't have another night like that!
Db. I'm so tired today.
0 c. I feel so rested today.
7. I didn•t sleep a wink last night.

0 a. I'm exhausted today.
0 b. I've never slept so well in my life.
0 c. I feel so rested today.
8. I'm at the end of my rope.

0 a. I can't continue.
Db. I'm so happy.
D c. I feel so rested today.
c. Complete the dialogue using the appropriate word(s)

bite your tongue like a log
end of my rope sleep a wink
hans in there the time of my life
hitch
Debbie: Thank you so much for inviting me to your party. I really had
_.(...._1.#-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ! Everything went
without a_.(...,!.#-)_ _ _ _ _ _ __
Nancy: I know. I didn't think l'd_.(.....,l.#-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ the night before. Actually, I slept
_.(..:::!!4.#-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ! I guess I was
exhausted from preparing all the food.
Debbie: The last time I had a party, I was at the
_.(.....,5~1------------ ! Nothing went right.
I kept telling myself to _.(..,.,6.#-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
until everyone went home.
Nancy: I don't suppose you'll be having another party soon?
Debbie: _.C>L-7.#-l---------
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Choose the idiom from the right column that matches
01. I can't work like this any A. I was screaming at the top of
more. It's just too much my lungs!
for me!
B. r m at the end of my rope.

02. You can certain! y tell that
Gordon is John's son.
c. Bite your tongue! rm never
0 3. You've got to eat going again. I spent the whole
something! day falling.
04. I heard you went skiing

D. He's the spitting mage of his
for the first time
father.
yesterday. Are you going
next weekend, too?
E. I had the time of my life.
Os. I'm so tired.
F. 1 didn•t sleep a wink all night.

06. I can't believe you didn't
hear me calling you.
G. You· re nothing but skin and
07. What a great vacation! bones!
0 8. I can't wait to go home! H. I slept like a log last night.
09. Why are you so wonied

that your party \Von· t be a I. I hope I can hang in there
success'? Everyone is another five minutes until the
having a great time. Just office closes~
relax.
J. Everything· s going without a
010. I'm very rested. hitch!
E. DICTATION EBI
(This dictation can be found in Appendix A on page 277).
If you arc following along with your cassette. you will now hear a paragraph
to you at first). In addition. the words vvill be pronounced as you \\·ould
actually hear them in a com•cr.sation. including many common reductions.
The first time the paragraph is presented. simply listen in order to get
accustomed to the speed and heavy usc of reductions. The paragraph will
then be read again with a pause after each group of \Vords to give you time
to write dovvn what you heard. The third time the paragraph is reacL follow
along \Vith vvhat you have VvTitten.
Lesson Five • POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
My hottse guest is
''eating me out of
house and home!''
DIALOGUE
Jim is having trouble with his house guest.
Emil\': Are things still going badly with your house guest?
Jim: It's getting worse. Now he's eating me out of house and
home. I've tried talking to him but it all goes in one ear and
out the other. He makes himself at home which is fine. But
what really gets me is that yesterday he walked into the living
room in the raw and I had company over~ That was the last
straw.
Em!Y: Jim, I really think you're beating around the bush with this
gu.Y. I know he used to be your best friend in college. but I
really think it's time to lay down the law.
Jim: You're right. Everything is probably going to come to a head

tonight. I'll keep you posted.
Lesson Five· PCJ»ULAR IDIOMS
Translation of
DIALOGUE
Emily: Are things still going badly with your house guest?
Jim: It's getting worse. Now he's eating everything in my house.
I've tried talking to him but he doesn't listen. He makes
himself as comfortable as if he were in his own home which
is fine. But what really annoys me is that yesterday he walked
into the living room completely naked and r had company
over! That was alii could tolerate.
Emily: Jim, I really think you're being indirect with this g~y. I know
he used to be your best friend in college, but I really think it's
time to impose strict rules.
Jim: You're right. Everything is probably going to reach the
critical point tonight. I'll keep you informed.
65
Lesson Five· POPULAR IDIOMS
My hot1se guest 'z

''eading me oud of
hot1se 'n home!''
DIALOGUE a
Emily: Are things still going badly with yer house guest?
Jim: It's gedding worse. Now 'e's eading me oud of house 'n
home. I've tried talking to 'im bud id all goes 'none ear 'n
out the other. He makes 'imself 'it home which 'z fine. But
what really gets me is that yesterday 'e walked inta the living
room 'n the raw and I had company over! That was the las'
straw.
Emily: Jim, l really think y'r beading aroun' the bush with this guy.
I know 'e used ta be yer bes' friend 'n college, bud I really
think it's time ta lay down the law.
Jim: Y'i right. Ev'rything is prob'ly gonna come to a head t'night.
I'll keep ya posted.
66
STREET TALK -3: Tr ~ BES-:- C)F ;\.'.tcRiC.-"·'-' ;c;-:.:;:. ·,s 67
Vocabulary
beat around the bush (to) exp. to be indirect and vague.

usage example OJ Just tell me \vhat )'OU want. Stop beati:.1g around the
bush~
transiat!CY7. Just tell me v,;hat you want. Stop being so indirect and
vague~
usage example (2j Stop beating around the bush. I! you \vant to bonow
my car, just ask me.
transkJt.lon· Stop being so indirect and vague. If you \Vant to
bon'l1\\ my car. just ask me.
come to a head (to) exp. said of a situation which reaches a critical

point; to come to a climax.
usage example ( 7). They've been angry with each other for a long rime
and last night everything c:ame io a head. They yelled
at each other for an entire hour:
translation.· They've been angry \Vith each other for a long time
and last night the situation reached a critical point.
They yelled at each other for an entire hour:
usage example (2) Every time Karen comes to our house. she criticizes
:nc. \Vell. if she makes any comments about my
haircut. things are going to come to a head:
transiat;on Every time Karen comes to our house she criticizes
me. \Vel!. if she makes any comments about my
haircut. things are going to climax~
68 "EATING ME OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME'
eat someone out of house and home (to) exp. to cat all the
food in someone' s house to the point where the owners can barely afford
to buy more food and other essentials.
usage example (7): My cousin has been staying with us for two months
and it's been terrible. He has an enormous appetite. lf
he stays much longer, he' 11 eat us out of house and
home!
translation: My cousin has been staying with us for two months
and it's been terrible. He has an enormous appetite. If
he stays much longer, we won't be able to afford to
live!
usage example (2). My cousin Gary is known for visiting people, eating
them out of house and home, and never offering to
pay for anything.
translation: My cousin Gary is known for visiting people, eating
everything in their house, and never offering to pay
for anything.
get someone (to) exp. to annoy someone.

usage example (7): It really gets me when people lie!
translation: It really annoys me when people lie!
usage example (2). Doesn't it get you when people are late?
translation. Doesn't it annoy you when people are late?
11/;!;ll;iit•JI!I to get!!! someone exp. to annoy or to upset.
usage example: He's starting to get to me.
trans/adon. He's starting to annoy (or upset) me.
go in one ear and out the other (to) exp. to ignore what
someone says; not to pa;-' attention to what someone says.
usage example (lf I've told you three times to take off your shoes before
you walk on the new carpet. I feel like everything I
say to you goes in one ear and out the other.
tmnsi<Jtion: I've told you three times to take off your shoes before
you vvalk on the new carpet. I feel like you ignore
everything I say to you.
usage example (2): I know he can be insulting sometimes. If he says

anything rude to you, just let it go in one ear and out
the other.
translation: I know he can be insulting sornetimes. If he says
anything rude to you, just ignore it.
Mr. Rodney's problem is that everything

"goes in one ear and out the other.,.
in the raw (to be) ('J.p. to be completely naked.

usage example (IJ I guess he clidn 't know I was in the house. \Vhen I
v,·alkecl into the living room. he\\ as just standing there
in the raw~
70 'EATING ME OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME'
mmslation· I guess he didn't know I was in the house. When I

walked into the living room, he \vas just standing there
completely naked!
usage exarnple (2) Everyone at this beach is in the raw!

translation. Everyone at this beach is completely naked~
ti'4.'i•L'I'4.'.!1 to be in one's birthday suit e.rf7. (humorous) • (lit):

to be dressed the same way as one is at the moment
of birth: naked.
keep someone posted (to) exp. to keep someone informed.

usage example(!): rm not sure \vhen I'll be aniving at the airport, but I
should know tomonovi. I'll keep you posted.
translation. r m not sure when r II be arriving at the airpOit, but I
Should know tOI1l0fr<.l\V. rl! keep you informed.
usage example (2) I can't wait to hear \\·hat happens on your job
interview. Keep me posted.
translation l can't wait to hear what happens on vour job
intervie\v. Keep me informed.
lay down the law (to) exp. to impose strict rules.

usage example (7): I'm tired of you kids coming to my house and
misbehaving! Now I'm laying down the law. There
will be no jumping, no yelling, and no hitting while
you're in my home. Is that clear'?
translation. I'm tired of you kids coming to my house and
misbehaving! No\v I'm imposing strict rules. There
will be no jumping. no yelling, and no hitting while
you're in my home. Is that clear?
usage example (2) The boss laid down the law today. Anyone who is
late to work will be fired!
translation The boss imposed strict rules today. Anyone who is
late to vv·ork will be fired!
make oneself at home (to) exp. to make oneself feel as

comfortable as if he/she were in his/her own home.
usage example (7): Welcome to my house. Please make yourself at
home.
translation: Welcome to my house. Please make yourself feel as
comfortable as you would in your ovm home.
usageexample(2). It's hard to make yourself at home at Lisa's house

because she's so formal.
translation· It's hard to feel comfortable at Lisa's house because
she's so formal.
the last straw (to be) exp. to be all one can tolerate.
usage example (7): Our next door neighbors have been playing loud
music since midnight. NO\v they're throwing empty
bottles in our backyard! That's the last straw. l"m
calling the police.
translation: Our next door neighbors have been playing loud
music since midnight. NO\v they're throwing empty
bottles in our backyard! That's all I'm going to
tolerate. I'm calling the police.
usage example (2): Bob took money out of my· wallet \Vithout asking?
That's the last straw!
translation: Bob took money out of my \Vallet without asking?
That's all I'm going to tolerate!
i!l;l;ll;§!lt]:a to be the straw that broke the camel's back cxf'·
72 "EATING ME OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME"
Practice the Vocabulary D

(Ansll'ers to Lesson 5, p. 262)
A. Were the following idioms used correctly or incorrectly?
I. I'm laying down the law. These arc the new rules in my home.
0 correct 0 incon·ect
2. r m not going to give you any information about the situation. I'll
keep you posted.
0 ccmect 0 incorrect
3. Everything you say to George goes in one ear and out the
other. He ahvays pays attention to what people say.
0 con·ect 0 incorrect
4. Stop being so i ndircct and vague. You don't need to beat

around the bush.
i 'correct 0 incorrect
5. Did you see that bcauti ful dress she was \vearing'? That was the
first time I'd ever seen her in the raw.
D correct 0 incorrect
6. It really· gets me 1.vhen people lie. Vlhy can· t people just tell the
truth~
D coJTect Uincorrect
7. E\ery·tbing finally came to a head lust night. You should have

heard them yell at each other!
U correct L' incorrect
~- Take o!T your coat and make yourself at home. Please help
ypursclf to something to drink.
~-.correct LJ incorrect
B. Underline the appropriate word that best completes

the phrase.
1. You never listen to me. It all goes in one (arm, ear, mouth) and
out the other.
2. Stop (hitting, beating, whipping) around the bush and tell me

what you \Vant.
3. Everything came to a (foot, head, leg) last night bet\vcen Steve

and Ron. You should have heard them yell at each other.
4. That's the last (straw, hay, grass)! I'm going to quit my job!
5. My house guest is eating me out of house and (home, dwelling,

abode)~
fl. l\1ake yourself at (house. home. dwelling). I'll be right back with
some refreshments.
7. I can ·t wait to hear \vhat happens on your vacation. Keep me

(posted. roasted. toasted).
~- Nancy· s late for our appointment again. That really (gets. bets.
sets) me.
'E,I\ TING ME OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME"
C. Choose the most appropriate definition of the words

in boldface.
1. rve tried talking to him but~~ aJi! g©;:;: !~©I%~ ear ;n-:cl out the
other.
0 a. he doe~n "t pa;. attention
0 b. he gets \'ery clefcnsi\'e
0 c. his hearing is '.Try had
2. You children have to !cam to behave. Starting today. I" m !ayir~g

down the law.
0 a. going to keep you informed
0 b. going to be indirect and vague
0 c. imposing stri:.:! nlle~
::1. I'm going lo ;'i;v' -··:: ' ;;:.:~ lk rni(,Jcm is \vith Stephanie. She
seems \cry ups·.::t I'll ~€~~ wo~.j lO©~~edL
0 a. keep you informed
0 h. be indirect and Yaguc
L c. jn1pc;sc strict rules
4. Stop bea~!~g an·c:.~n@ ~~~ ~~ljj ;·n!d >:11 rn(: \\hat )'OU \\ant.
0 a. keeping me informed
C b. being indirect and \'ague
D c. imposing strict rules
5. E\cryone in the swimming pool was In the raw.

:J a. fuily clothed
:_b. s]o\\!)
l._; c. nude
6. Therc·s so much tension bet\\een J~m ancl.iDhn. I think it"s all

going to c:ome ~"a head tonight.
----' ~'- c:li m d (l \ q1
: , h. ciinl~Lx
c. end
7. Make yourself at home and I'll be right back with some food.
D a. make yourself as comfortable as you would in your own home
Db. don't touch anything in my home
D c. take anything you'd like from my home
8. \Vhat really gets me is that every time I say hello to AL he ignores me.
D a. makes me laugh
l..J b. annoys me
n c. relaxes me
9. That"s the last straw~ I'm leaving!

C a. all I can tolerate
D b. \Nonderful
D c. exciting
10. Jack's brother is eating us out of house and home.

D a. eating very little
Db. eating only sweets
D c. eating everything in our house
D. CO~TEXT EXERCISE
Choose the correct idiom that goes with the phrase.
1. Today I'm going to find out if I got the job promotion.

D a. I'll keep you posted.
D b. Make yourself at home.
1 Did you see how pretentious Anne was at the party'?

D a. That really gets me.
Db. I'm laying down the law.
3. You should have heard their argument!

D a. It finally came to a head last night.
Db. I'm laying down the law.
76 EATING tv·,E OUT OF HOUSE AND HOME'
4. Tell me what really happened!

D a. It's all going in one ear and out the other!
C h. Stop beating around the bush!
5. I"\T gone to the market three times today.

[J a. My son is eating us out of house and home.
::::J b. My son keeps beating around the bush.
6. He cloesn · t hear a word l say.

[J a. Everything goes in one ear and out the other.
Db. He keeps beating around the bush.
i. This is my first time to a nudist colony.

D a. He's eating me out of house and home.
• , b. I think we're the only people who aren't in the raw.
8. I told :·ou to come home before midnight and nmv it's 2:00 in the
morning 1
D a. That's the last straw!
;::::; b. Step beating around the bush!
E. DICTATION lE!!J
If you are follcm in g. along \\·ith your cassette. you will now hear a paragraph
by a natiYe speaker at normal cOil\ ersational speed (\vhich may seem fast
to :y·ou at first). In addition. the words will be pronounced us you Jmuld
ocrzwllr hcor 1/zem in o con',·r:rsorion. including many common reductions.
The first time the paragraph is pre\ented. simply listen in order to gel
accustomed to lhe spCL'd ;md Ilea\ y use of reduction:-. The paragraph \\·ill
then be read again\\ ith a pause after l.'ach group of words to gi\e you time
to \\Tite d<mn \\ h;lt you heard. The third time the pmagraph is read. follmY
along \\ ith \\·h;tl you ILl\C \Hitt,_·n.
REVIEW EXAM
FOR LESSONS 1-5
(Answers to Review, p. 263)
A. Underline the appropriate word that best completes

the phrase.
I. I had the time of my (life, death. sleep) at your party last night .
. 2. When you said she was pretentious, you hit the nail on the (foot.
head, arm).
3. You don't know why she's so upset? It's as plain as the (eye,
mouth. nose) on your face.
4. Mark's car was stolen from his house \Vhile he was on vacation!
I don't know how I'm going to (break, smash, crush) the news
to him .
.'5. Don't v-·ony about missing the flight. If worse comes to (worst.
better. best). we'll leave tomonow.
6. Laura is dating Ralph? You're pulling my (arm. leg, ear)!
7. Janet's relationship with Ernie is nothing more than a flash in the

(casserole. pot. pan).
8. The::.·· must he good friends. I saw them walking ann in (foot.

finger. arm) yesterday.
9. \Vhcn the teacher gave us a surprise exam. I broke out in a

(warm. cold. hot) sweat.
I 0. There's nothing to get so upset about. You're really (blowing.

breathing. rowing) this all out of proportion.
78 REVIEW OF LESSONS 1-5
B. CROSSWORD
Step 1: Fill in the blanks with the appropriate word(s)
Step 2: Using your answers, fill in the crossword puzzle
on page 81.
a hold of yourself flash leg

break fork lungs
clean gets raw
cold sweat handle sight
cradle hang in there skin and bones
deep hitch spit
fair shake knot straw
feet law tune
Across
1. You've got to g e t - - - - - - - - - - - - - . I've
never seen you so upset
7. I know you want Joanne to be your girl friend, but there· s just one
_ _ _ _ .I just found out she's married.
8. Mark is going to be so upset \Vhen I tell him about his house

burning in the fire today. I don't know how rm going to
_ _ _ _ _ _ the news to him.
9. You broke my good watch? That's the last _ _ _ _ _ __

rm never letting you borrov.• anything of mine again!
10. You're twenty years older than your boyfriend? People are going
to say that you're robbing the _ _ _ _ __
Across (continued)
11. You found $1,000? Your pulling my _ _ _ _ __
12. I know she's lied to you before, but I think she's ready to come
______ with you this time.
13. Our !light to Los Angeles \vas very expensive. We had

to ______ over a lot of money.
15. When her cat died, Pam went off the _ _ _ _ end.
16. I was so scared 1 broke out in a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
20. Congratulations! I just heard you and Colby are going to tic
the ! I hope you have a long and happy life
together.
21. Put something on before our company gets here. I don't think
they're interested in seeing you in the _ _ _ _ __
22. Dan vvas going to get married yesterday but he got

cold and cancelled the ceremony.
23. David flew off the ______ because Keith was late again.
That always makes David angry.
24. You know what really ______ me? It took me three

months to find a job but my sister found one in only an hour and
it pays twice as much as mine!
80 REVIEW OF LESSONS 1 -5
Down
2. I know you have a lot of work to do, but _ _ _ _ . When it's
all done, you can take a long vacation.
3. When Karen saw the burglers, she screamed at the top of

her _ _ _ _ _ and scared them away.
4. My job interview only lasted two minutes. I wasn't given

a _ _ _ _ __
5. John lost a Jot of weight. He's nothing but _ _ _ _ _ _ __
6. Kelly was a movie star for a short time. Her career was only
a _ _ _ _ _ in the pan.
14. Amy is the and image of her mother. You can

certainly see that they're related.
17. You're three hours late coming home! I'm laying down the
_ _ _ _ _ right now. If you ever come this late again, I'm
taking away your privileges.
18. When I met your mother, it was love at first _ _ _ _ __

I knew I w·anted to spend the rest of my life with her.
19. I can catTy a _ _ _ _ _ although I wouldn't call myself a

great singer.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIO'v1.S 81
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
82 REVIEW OF LESSONS 1-5
C. TRUE or FALSE
Are the following sentences (containing idiomatic
expressions) true or false?
I. The best singer in the world can't carry a tune.

D True D False
2. After someone pops the question, hopefully the next step is to tie
the knot.
DTrue D False
3. Only brave people get cold feet.

0 True D False
4. When you come clean \Vith someone, you're not being honest.
D True D False
5. If you are the spitting image of someone, you look alike.

0 True D False
6. When something goes v.·ithout a hitch. it means that everything

went smoothly.
[J True D False
7. Fat people arc nothing but skin and bones.

· :True D False
8. People who never get angry are known for flying off the handle.
C True D False
Y. If you have insomnia. you probahly sleep like a log.

~-~True D False
10. Ir)ou h<t\·e insomnia. you probably can't sleep a wink.

!:J True D False
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF ;.,rv',ERICAN IDIOMS
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Choose the idiom from the right column thae gees with
0 I. I wonder if Mark and Angie A. That"s right. People are

\vi II be getting married soon. going to say that I'm
robbing the cradle.
0 2. You· re dating someone
twenty years younger than B. I dicln 't sleep a wink h.!st
you'? night.
0 3. Peter is always very rational. c. Great! On second thought.

let's go get something to
eat. l don't feel like sitting
D 4. Andy vvas arrested last
in a dark theater all night.
night for drunk driving. but
they let him go home after
an hour. D. They let him off the hook
that quickly?
D 5. Let's go to the movies.

E. Bite your tongue! rm
exhausted.
D 6. Thank you for inviting me
to your party last night. Arc
F. Arc you serious? You don't
you going to have another
have a prayer.
party next weekend, too'?
G. Thank you. Make yourself

D 7. You look tired today. at home.
D 8. You have a beautiful house! H. That"s true. He really has a

good head on his shoulders.
D 9. Do you think the boss will
give me a promotion next I. No. they've only been going
\Veek'? together for a week!
DIO. I've never seen you so upset J. You're right. l"\e got to get
and irrational. a hold of myself.
Lesson Six • POPULAR IDIOMS
A "bad hair" day ..•
85
Lesson Six· POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
''A bad hair day''
DIALOGUE
Scott and Sabrina arc at a party.
Scott: Wow! Emily really went to town on this party. Oh, I think
that's a no-host bar. I hope you brought money, because I
didn't.
Sabrina: Oh, sure. No problem. Hey, look \vho just walked in. I didn't
know Barbara was going to be here. Is she having a bad hair
day or what? I've never seen hair that color before! Even
getting all dolled up isn't going to help her. I don't mean to
get on her case but I've never met anyone who can get on my
nerves like she can~
Scott: I know. She's always making cracks about everyone behind

their backs. Oh, great. Here she comes. \Vhatever you do.
don't buy into it when she starts fishing for compliments
about how good she looks.
Sabrina: I don't think there's much chance of that happening.
86
Lesson Six- POPULAR IDIOMS
Translation or in standard English
DIALOGUE
Scott and Sabrina arc at a party.
Scnrr: Wovv' Emily really spent a let of money on this pJ.Ity. Oh. I
think that· s a bar where we pay for our own drinks. I hope
you brought monc:y·. because I didn't.
Sahrino: Oh. sure. No problem. Hey. look who just \Valked in. I c!icln 't
knm\ Barbara was going to be here. Doc<, her hair look
terrible or \\·hat'? l'\e l!l'\er seen hair that coior before~ En:n
gelling dressed in attracthre d!;)thins i:--n·t ~oin~ to help her. I
don· t mcD.n to criticize her but r' e nc\ '-';· met anyone \\ ho can
annoy me like she can'
Scott: l know. She's al\vays making derogatory remarks about

eYer:yone without thei:r f<:r.ow!ed!£ and in a malicious W!dy.
Oh. great. Here she comes. Whate,·er you do. don ·t be tricked
into complimenting her about hmv good she looks .
.).a/nina: I don· t think there· s much chance of that happening.
87
Lesson Six- POPULAR IDIOMS
''A bad hair day f'
DIALOGUE 1m
Scott 'n Sabrina 'r ad a pardy.
Scot!: Wmv! Emily really went ta town on this pardy. Oh, I think
that's a no-host bar. I hope you brought money, 'cause I didn · t.
5iobrina: Oh. sh · r. No problem. Hey. look · oo jus· \Val ked in. I didn'
know Barb ·ra was gonna be here. Ishee having a bad hair day
'r what? I' \e never seen hair that color b 'fore~ Even gedding
all dolled up isn't gonna help her. [don' mean ta ged on 'er
case bud I've never med anyone who c·n ged on my nerves
like she can~
Scott: I knO\\·. She's always making cracks ahoud ev'ryone b'hin'

their backs. Oh. great. Ilere she comes. Whadever ya do. don't
buy into it when she starts fishing fer compliments about how
good she looks.
Sabrina: f don· thin!-; there's much chance ·a that happ'ning.
88
Vocabulary
bad hair day (to have a) exp. (Very popular) said Of 'i0JllC()f1(' \\ h()'.L'
hair looks messy or poorly styled.
usage example (7): I can't be seen in public today. rm having a bad hair
day.
translation. I can't be seen in public today. My hair looks
absolutely terrible.
r m going to be on television for the

usage Pxarnple (2): I can ·t believe this.
tirst time in my life and rm having a bad hair day~
translation: I can't believe this. I'm going to be on television for
the first time in my life and my hair looks terrible~
l;t.•,(n.'OMI to have a good hair day e.\p.
behind someone·s back (to do something) np. to do

something secretly and in a malicious manner.
usageexamp!e(l): I just found out that Todd·~ been talking ahout me
behind my back.
tmnslation: I just found out that Todd's been secretly talking about
me in a malicious manner.
usage example (2): \Ve agreed that we \vere going to apply ror the job as
a team, but you went behind my back~
translation. We agreed that we were going to apply for the job as
a team. but you went and applied without telling me~
buy into something (to) e.\"fJ. to accept something.

usa_qe exampie (iJ He gave you nothing but excuses and you bought into it~
90 "A BAD HAIR DAY"
Don't look, but guess who just

walked in ... Barbara. I don't mean to talk
about her behind her back, but is she
ever ha11ing a bad hair day!
tlans!atJon. He gave you nothing but excuses and you accepted it:
usage exumofe r?} She·s going to try to make you feel guilty if you don·t
agree to take her to the airport. Just clon·t buy into it:
translatiOn She· s going to try to make .YOU feel guilty if you don't
agree to take her to the airport. Just don·t accept that:
ti',:i:i:l;,·,!!\1 to fa!! for something exp.
usage example \Vhy do )iOU keep falling for his excuses?
translation. Why do you keep accepting his excuses?
dolled up (to get all) e.rp. to gel all dressed up.

usnge example (l) I told her that we \\·ere only going to a barbecue but
she still wanted to get all dolled up.
:•anslat!On ! told her that \Ve w·ere only going to a barbecue but
she still \\'anted to get all dressed up.
us,,,c;eex;-rrnniu .2) You didn't need to get all dolled up for my party. I
told you it was going to be very casual.
!t:;nsiaN_;.r· You didn't need to get all dressed up for my party. I
told you it ''as going to he very casual.
~ This expression is used to describe \vomen only. For
both men and \vomcn. a common expression is:
to get all decked out.
tlt [,;. H ,', t1l to be dressed to kill np. to he dressed beautifully
(may be applied to both men and \vomcn).
usauc eurr.nlc Laura \vas dressed to kill tonight!
!r;-'ns;~J!iun Laura was all dressed up tonight!
Miss Jones got "all dolled up" for her first day
at Rosenchumps, liar, & 9usspool.
92 "A BAD HAIR DAY"
fish for a compliment from someone (to) exp. to try and get a
compliment from someone.
usage example (7): Today Lauren showed me one of the paintings she
made. You should have heard her talk for an hour
about what a great job she did. She was definitely
fishing for a compliment.
translaUon. Today Lauren showed me one of the paintings she
made. You should have heard her talk for an hour
about what a great job she did. She was definitely
trying to get me to compliment her.
usage example (2)· Carol invited some of us over for dinner last night. It
was the worst food I've ever tasted. She kept fishing
for compliments about the meal but no one could say
anything positive.
translaUon. Carol invited some of us over for dinner last night. It
was the worst food I've ever tasted. She kept trying
to get compliments for the meal but no one could say
anything positive.
get on someone·s case (to) exp. to criticize someone.

usage example (IJ Why do you always have to get on my case every
time I make a little mistake?
translation: Why do you always have to criticize me every time I
make a little mistake?
usage example (2): My mom really got on my case for being late to
dinner.
translaUon: My mom really criticized me for being late to dinner.
get on someone·s nerves {to) exp. to annoy someone.

usage example (1): That loud music is getting on my nerves!
trtms/ation: That loud music is annoying me!
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF A.MERICAN IDIOiv\S 93
usage exrm~nie (2) \\'mtlcl you please leave me alone~ You· rc starting: to
get on my nerves~
iransiauon. Would you please tca,·c rnc atone~ You·re starting to

annoy me~
go to town (to) to do something to the extreme.

e.\}J.
usage e·.;a.n>pic {7) That saxophonist really went to town on his solo~
translatJU:'.'. That saxophonist realty played his solo with complete

ahanclnn~
IN.'g~,, I_'Xa.-r;pio (2} \1ichclk hired a hand. a caterer. and even rented
tahlcs and chairs for her party. Every time she gives a
party·. she ahvays goes to town.
tran.'"'at.:or' l\Iichelle hired a hand. a caterer. and even rented
table-., and chairs for her party. E\'cry time she g:i,·cs a
party·. she alway-., docs it as elaborately as possible.
u,::.uv.roa to go all out np.
usaye r.xanJoio You realty went all out for thi-., party~
!.'a.nsfi!!!Or.' You really -.,pared no expense for this

party~
l!)~.:.:.u,'.I€)II to let out all the stops e.rJI.

usayro 8>-.amnir:: When .Joanne g:iYes a party. she lets out
all the stops!
t:an~iY1 on \Vhcn Joanne has a party. she fOes all
the '' ay ~
make cracks about someone or something (to) e.1p. to make

dl'J"(l~;ttnry rcmarb about snmconc or somcthin_!!.
tr you make another crack about my hcq friend. !"II
,,_.-,,,_,r: ''"''"1!.'-t: ~-.:,:
neYcr spl'ak to you ag:ai n.
:.·;;:,_,_.,:,,'.'(;·' Ir \ nu makl' another dcr(lgatory remark about my best
friend. r]] 11('\ cr :--peak to) (lll again.
94 "A BAD HAIR DAY''
usage example (2): Jody made cracks about Nancy all night. When l
finally told Jody that Nancy was my sister, you should
have seen her face!
translation.· Jody made derogatory remarks about Nancy all night.
When I finally told Jody that Nancy was my sister.
you should have seen her face!
no-host bar exp. a bar at a party where the guests are expected to pay
for their drinks.
usage example (1): If you want something to drink, you' 11 have to pay for
it. It's a no-host bar.
translation.· If you want something to drink, you'll have to pay for
it. The guests have to pay for their own drinks.
usage example (2): I want to have a huge party but I'm going to have to
set up a no-host bar. 1 wouldn't be able to afford to
buy liquor for that many people.
translation: 1 want to have a huge party but I· m going to have to
set up a bar where the guests pay for their own drinks.
I wouldn'tbe able to afford to buy liquor forthatmany
people.
CJlill The term "no-host" bar is only common in the
western portion of the United States, whereas the
expression "cash-bar" is used in the east.
Practice The Vocabulary E:!!J

(A.nsH'('rS to Lesson 6, p. 264)
A. Were the idioms in the following sentences used

correctly or incorrectly?
I. It" s time to go to bed. I'm going to get all dolled up.

D co !Teet 0 incorrcct
' Janet really went to town on this party~ She probably didn't
spend any money on it at all!
D correct D incorrect
3. You're getting on my nerves. Go <may~

U correct D incorrect
-1-. My mother gets on my case e\'CI') time I spend a lot of money.

0 COITect D incorrect
5. l'vlatt \vas making cracks about Erica at the· pan: last nigh!. He
must reall\' admire her a lot.
[]correct 0 incorrcct
6. !\'lake sure you bring money with you to the party. There· s going
to be a no-host bar.
C correct ::::J incorrect
7. I'm having a bad hair day. I look terrible'

0 co:Tcct il incorrect
g. Ernie gets so embarrassed anytime someone giH?S him any

praise. I guess that's why he's ah\ays fishing for compliments.
:-J correct [J i ncorrcct
96 A BAD HAIR DAY"

a bad hair day getting on your nerves
all dolled up getting on your case
behind my back making cracks about him/her
buying into it no-host
fishing for compliments to go to town
l. Someone whose hair looks terrible is said to be having:
Answer: __________________________________
2. What is an idiom for doing something to the extreme?
Answer: ___________________________________
3. If people are making derogatory comments about me that I am

unaware of, they are talking:
Answer: __________________________________
4. A woman who is wearing beautiful clothing is:
Answer: ----------------------------------
5. When someone annoys you, he/she is:
Answer: __________________________________
6. When someone wants to be praised, he/she is:
Answer: __________________________________
7. If you are saying something derogat<lry about a particular person,

you are said to be:
An~er: _________________________________
8. A bar where guests are expected to pay for their drinks is what
kind of bar?
Answer: _________________________________
9. If you are accepting someone's excuse, you are:
Answer: _________________________________
10. If someone cricitizes you, he/she is:
Answer: _________________________________
C. Underline the appropriate word that best completes

the phrase.
I. He loves when people praise him. He's always (bowling, fishing,
skiing) for compliments.
2. Marge really went to (town, city, village) on her house. It's

beautiful!
3. Barbarajust walked in. I hope she doesn't come and sit with us.
She really gets on my (muscles, cells, nerves).
4. You should have heard what Ted said about you behind your
(ear, back, neck).
5. Why arc you all dolled (up, down, back)? Are you on your way
to a party?
98 "A BAD HAIR DAY
6. If Anna starts hinting that she needs a ride to the airport, don't
(purchase, spend, buy) into it.
7. I can't go to the party looking like this. I'm having a bad hair
(day, night, week).
8. Stop getting on my (case, suitcase, valise). You're always

criticizing me!
9. We have to pay for our own drinks. It's a (yes, no, maybe)-host
bar.
10. Stop making (cracks, crevices, splits) about my girlfriend!
D. Choose the correct definition of the idioms in boldface.
I. Donna is wearing the ugliest dress today but she must think it's
beautiful. She's been fishing for compliments all day.
0 a. accepting compliments
0 b. looking for compliments
0 c. giving compliments
2. My mother got all dolled up to go to her high school reunion.

0 a. completely drunk
0 b. in old clothes
0 c. dressed in formal clothing
3. Every time I'm late to work, my boss gets on my case.

0 a. criticizes me
0 b. doesn't care
0 c. thinks it's funny
4. Joanne keeps making cracks about the way I dress.

0 a. making helpful comments
0 b. making derogatory comments
0 c. insightful comments
STREET TALK •J: THE BEST Cf- !'\!V\ERiCA.N :DIO!v15 99
5. rm having a bad hair day.

0 a. haYing: troubk with my hair today
0 b. not having any trouble with my hair today
0 c. beautiful v.'ith my new hairdo
6. That customer always gets on my nerves.

0 a. has something nice to say
0 b. makes me laugh
0 c. annoys me
7. Don't buy into it \vhen Carol asks to borrow money for the bus.
She uses that same story with everyone.
0 a. laugh
0 b. accept it
0 c. cry
8. Did you hear what Dave is saying about Eric behind his back'?
0 a. without his knowledge
0 b. while hiding behind him
0 c. with his knowledge
E. DICTATION IJ!
(This dictation can be fo~nd in Appendix A on page 278).
to you at first). In addition, the words will be pronounced as you would
aC!ua!ly hear them in a conversation, including many common reductions.
accustomed to the speed and heavy· usc of reductions. The paragraph \Vill
then be read again with a pause after each group of \Vords to give you time
to write down what you heard. The third time the paragraph is read. follow
Lesson Seven - POPULAR IDIOMS
0
Jody is 11getting the hang of skiing..
101
Lesson Seven - POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
Jodi is ''getting the

hang of skiing''
DIALOGUE
Jodi is learning how to ski.
Jodi: I know I'm going to bite the dust going down this hill. I had a
brush with death on the chair lift! This is going to be so
emban-assing.
Nann: Don't won)'. Everyone knows you're getting your feet wet. I'll
show you how. 1 bet you' II get the hang of this within five
minutes.
Jodi: This is only your second time skiing. This is definitely a case of
the blind leading the blind .
.Nann·: Relax. I can hold my own. Now, point your skis toward the
bottom of the hill. Easy does it!
Jodi: I don't think I can get up enough nerve to do this.
Nancr: Here. I'll just give you a little push ...
Jodi: No~!!~!~!~~
(Later m the bottom (){!he hill... )

Nancr: There. Now, wasn't that fun'! As soon as you get your second
wind, v.·e'll try it again.
Jodi: Don't hold your breath!
10!2
Lesson Seven· POPULAR IDIOMS
ion of dialogue in standard English
DIALOGUE
0
Jodi is learning how to ski.
0
Jcdi: I knov,· I'm going to fall hard going down

this hill. I almost got killed on the chair lift!
This is going to be so embarrassing.
Nancy: Don't worry. Everyone knows this is your
first experience. I' II show you how.
r bet you '11 be proficient at this within five minutes.
Jodi: This is only your second time skiing. This is definitely
a case of an inexperienced person being instructed by
someone equally inexperienced.
Nancy: Relax. I'm very capable. Now, point your skis toward the
bottom of the hill. Be careful and go slowly!
Jodi: I don't think I can get the courage to do this.
Nanc_v: Here. I'll just give you a little push ...
Jodi: No!!!!!!!!!
(Later at the bottom of the hilL)
,".'ann: There. Now, wasn't that fun? As soon as you get a second burst
of energy, we'll try it again.
Jodi: Don't anticipate that happening!
103
Lesson Seven · POPULAR IDIOMS
Jodi 'z "gedding the

hang of skiing''
DIALOGUE
Jodi's learning how da \Ki.
Jodi.· l knmv I'm ~onna bite the dust goin~ dO\\!l this hill. l had a
brush with deat_h on tliL' chair lilt~ This i\ gonna he '-O
emb;~:-rassing .
.\unn.· Don't\\ nrry. h 'ryonc knows: ·r gedding yer fee: wet. I'll
silo\\ ;(>u hO\\. l kt chC\\-ilget the hang ·a thi\ within t'i\c
111i t1li[C\.
l"di. This i" only yt:·r \econ· time skiing. Thi" is dd'inill'ly a Cl\C ·a
the blind leading the blind.
Vunn: Relax. I c'n hoid my own. No\\. point ch'r \!-;is ton.! the hodolll
·a the hi Ii. Easy does it:
.Judi.· 1 d()n· think l c'n ged up anuf nerve ta do thi-.; .
.\.t;n, \.· Here. !'ll_jus· gi\C you a Iiddle push ...
! Luda ui iilc hodon! 'u ihc !till ... )

.\'t;n,··.-: Ther.:-. :\m\. \\a:-.n· that fun·) As '-,()011 ·o you get ch'r secon'
wind. \\<..'.11 try id a~ain .
.Jodi: Do~ltt ho~d·rer ~;-eath:
104
Vocabulary
bite the dust {to) exp. • 1. to fall (on the ground. looking as if one is
eating dust) • 2. to fail • 3. to die.
usage example (7) [to fall}
As I was riding my bike. I lost my balance and bit the
dust.
translation. As I was riding my bike, I lost my balance and fell.
usage example {2). [to faiU

I think I really bit the dust on the final exam.
lranslation I think I really failed the final examination.
I:Iliill "E.xmn" is a popular abbreviation for "examination."
usage example {3). [to die]
I just heard my old piano teacher bit the dust.
translation I just heard my old piano teacher died.
I:::IrliD When this expression is used to mean '"to die," its
connotation is disrespectful and indifferent.
Ted "bit the dust" skiing

down the hill.
106 JODI IS GET:!~G THE Hi'\NG OF SKIING
blind leading the blind (the} exp. said of a situation where an

inexperienced or incapable persm~ is being instructed by someone
equally inexperienced or incapable.
usaye example (i): Jim is teaching Tom how to play tennis'? That's a real
case of the blind leading the blind.
translation. Jim is teaching Tom hO\v to play tennis? That's a real
case of an inexperienced person being taught by
someone equally inexperienced.
usr1ge exar7(ole (2): My sister is the worst driver in the world. NO\v she
wants to teach our brother how to drive. Talk about
the blind leading the blind!
translation. My sister is the worst driver in the world. NO\v she
wants to teach our brother hO\v to drive. This is
certainly an example of an inexperienced person
teaching another inexperienced person!
I:Iliii "Talk about... " is an extremely popular expression
meaning "This is certainly an example of... "
brush with death (to have a) exp. to have a near-death experience.

usayeexample(l). I hear you almost got hit by a bus yesterday! You
really had a brush with death.
trans/a/ion: I hear you almost got hit by a bus yesterday! You
really had a near-death experience.
usage example (2): As we drove around the comer. there was a huge truck
driving tmvard us in our lane! I've never had such a
close brush with death before!
translation: As we drove around the comer, there was a huge truGk
driving toward us in our lane! I've never had such a
near-death experience before!
.. Don't hold your breath" exp. "Don't anticipate that happening."

usage example (7): I know she said she'd remember to take you to the
airport, but don't hold your breath. She forgets
everything!
translatton: I know she said she'd remember to take you to the
airport, but don't anticipate that happening. She
forgets everything!
usage example (2): I realize you v,rant this promotion, but don't hold your
breath. The owner's son is hoping for the same
promotion as you.
translatJon. I realize you want this promotion, but don't anticipate
that happening. The owner's son is hoping for the
same promotion as you .
.. Easy does it!" exp. •1. "Be careful and go slowly!" • 2. "Cahn down!"
usage examplf! (7I ["Becareful and go slowlyi'J
Let's lift this couch on the count of three. But easy
does it! I know you have a weak back.
translatJon. Let's lift this couch on the count of three. But be
careful! I know you have a weak back.
usage example (2)· ["Calm downt']

Easy does it! I don't like being yelled at like this.
transladon: Calm down! I don't like being yelled at like this.
feet wet (to get one's) exp. to try a nevi experience for the first time.
usage example (IJ· I've never played go If before. I'm just getting my feet
wet.
translatJon: I've never played golf before. I'm just experiencing it
for the first time.
usage example (2).- Would you like to join us for a game of bowling
tonight? We're all just getting our feet wet.
translation. Would you like to join us for a game of bow·Iing
tonight? We're all trying it for the first time.
108 JODI IS GE'DINC_i THE H/\NG OF SKIING
get the hang of something (to) np. to learn to do something.

h()\\
usage exarr\ule /!) When I first went skiing. I kept falling down. But after
a few hours. I started to get the hang of it~
uans;m,on When I first went skiing. I kept falling clown. But after
a few hours. I started to learn how to ski better~
usage exarrpie (:C) I don't think r II ewr get the hang of playing the piano.
translatiOn. I don. t think r ll C\"Cr learn hO\V to play the piano.
Bob's trying "to get the hang o.P'

his new fax machine.
g~t ~p e~cugh ne~ve to do something (to) np. to summon

tFanslation Maybe ifl have a drink, I'll be able to summon enough

courage to ask Tessa out on a date.
1'/;l;lt;Sdnl!l to get up the nerve to do something exp.
hold one·s own (to) exp. to be very capable at something (without

any assistance).
usage example OJ Doug holds his own as an airplane pilot.
tFanslation· Doug is very capable as an airplane pilot.
usage example (2J I can certainly hold my own on the dance floor.
tFanslation: I'm very capable at dancing.
li[n•JOtl The phrase "vvhen it comes to" (meaning "with regard
to") commonly follows this expression.
usage example. I can hold my own when it comes to golf.
translation: I am capable with regard to golf.
lit•hJE}tl The phrase "in the fverh+ing} department" may also
follow this expression.
usage example. I can hold my own in the golfing/
singing/cooking/etc. department.
tFanslation: I am very capable at golfing/singing/
cooking/etc.
second wind (to get one"s) exp. to get a second burst of energy.
usage example (1): During the race, I started getting tired after about five
minutes. Then all of a sudden, I got my second wind
and won the race!
translation: During the race. I started getting tired after about five
minutes. Then all of a sudden, I got a second burst of
energy and won the race~
usage example (2): I just got my second wind. Let's go jogging again.
tmr?s!atior:. I just got a second hurst of energy. Let's go jogging
110 JODI IS 'GffiiNG THE HANG OF SKIING.
Practice The Vocabulary D

A. CROSSWORD
bite the dust feet wet
blind hang
breath nerve
brush own
easy does it second wind
Across Down
4. I'm scared to ski dmvn the 4. You expect me to
hill. I just know I'm going embarass myself by
to _ __ singing in front of an
audience? Don't hold
17. I don't think I could get up your _ __
enough to go ice
skating. I'd be too scared I'd 7. Take this glass of water
fall. to the table but _ __
It's filled all the way to
24. She's only been playing the
the top.
guitar for two months but she
can already hold her _ _ 9. Yesterday, I went
Vl'aterskiing for the first
32. I had a _ _ with death
time. I kept falling in the
when that truck almost hit me.
beginning. Then all of a
36. You're going to teach your sudden, I got the
sister to drive? But you know ___ of it and never
you're a terrible driver! This fell again!
is certainly a case of the blind
13. I just got my .I
leading the _ _
think I'm ready to go
37. I've never been skating before. jogging again.
I'm just getting my _ _
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS ,,1
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
B. Choose the correct phrase that best fits the idiom.
I. You really bit the dust going down that hill!

D a. Arc you hurt?
Db. I didn't know you could ski so well.
D c. You \Vent all the way down the hill without even falling.
' Easy does it!

D a. This isn't difficult at all.
D b. If you· re not careful. you could hurt yourself.
D c. You don· t have to be so careful.
3. I'm getting my second wind.

D a. I'm really tired.
Db. I'm having trouble breathing.
D c. Let's go play some more tennis.
11 !l JODI IS "GETTING THE HANG OF SKIING"
4. Surfing was really difficult at first, but I'm finally getting the
hang of it.
D a. I'm a lot better than I was last week.
Db. I'm not as good as I was last week.
D c. I'll never be a good surfer.
5. Being afraid of heights, I know I'd never get up the nerve to

go sky-diving.
D a. I'm not scared of it at all.
Db. I can't wait to go!
D c. I'd be too scared.
6. Nancy and Dominic can really hold their own when it comes to
ice skating.
D a. They're terrible ice skaters.
Db. They're very good ice skaters.
D c. They're going ice skating today for the first time.
7. You're not going to believe what happened to me today.

I had a brush with death!
D a. An enormous truck almost hit me as I was trying to walk
across the street.
Db. I'm in perfect health.
D c. I have a slight cold.
8. Here's a case of the blind leading the blind.

D a. Peggy is going to teach Jim how to play the guitar. She's
been playing guitar for many years.
Db. Peggy is going to teach Jim how to play the guitar. She had
her first lesson only yesterday.
D c. Peggy and Jim are going to take guitar lessons together
starting next week.
C. Complete the dialogue using the appropriate idioms

bite the dust get my second wind

easy does it getting your feet wet
get the hang of hold your own
get up enough nerve to have a brush with death
1/m: I need to rest untill--"(_...1.6-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
I didn't know tennis was so tiring!
Bob: Don't worry about it. You're only -'(""'!-4--)_ _ _ _ _ _ __
_ _ _ _ _ . You'll--"(~3-~-l----------- it
soon. Actually, you can already -'(""'4-~.-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
You played a great game today!
Tim: I hope I can --"('""'5-~.-l- - - - - - - - - - - t o play with
my father next week. I just don't want to slip on the tennis court
and -'('""'6-~.-l_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ right in front of him.
Bub: You sound like you expect --"(L7-4-)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ right on the tennis court. As long as
you're not too aggressive when you hit the balL you'll be fine.
Remember. _u_.___________
114 JODI IS "GETTING THE HANG OF SKIING"
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Choose the best idiom from the right column that goes
with the phrase in the left column.
D I. Are you going to invite Eric A. I can hold my own.

to your party?
B. I had a great time even
D 2. Have you ice skated many though I kept biting the
times before? dust.
D 3. How was your first day of

skiing? c. No! I'm just getting my
feet wet.
04. Would you like to play
another game of tennis or are D. I' II be fine just as soon as
you too tired? I get my second wind.
Ds. Do you really think I' II be E. I don't think I can get up

able to learn how to play enough nerve!
chess?
D 6. When we I ift these boxes, be F. This is a definite case of

careful not to hwt your back. the blind leading the
blind.
D 7. Arc you ready to give your
presentation in front of the G. I know. I really had a
entire class? brush with death!
D 8. I hear you're a very good H. Of course. You' II get the

smger. hang of it in just a few
hours.
09. Greg is teaching Steve about
baseball'? Greg doesn't know
anything about baseball and I. I was going to give you
Steve isn't athletic. the same advice.
Remember, easy does it.
DIO. Are you all right? That truck
came within inches of hitting J. Don't hold your breath!
:you! I don't even like him.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOJ'v\S 115
E. DICTATION EJ!
If you are following along with your cassette. you will nmv hear a paragraph
by a native speaker at normal conversational speed (vvhich may seem fast
to you at first). In addition. the \Vords \\'ill be pronounced as you \mu!d
actually hear them in a com·ersation. including many common reductions.
The first time the paragraph is presented. simp!;. listen in order to get
accustomed to the speed and heavy usc of reductions. The paragraph \\·ill
then be read again with a pause after each group ot' words to give you time
to write do\vn what you heard. The third time the paragraph is reacl. rolkm
Lesson Eight - POPULAR IDIOMS
Paul's "eyes are bigger than liis stomach."
117
Lesson Eight • POPULAR IDIOMS
Dialogue In Slang
Paul's "eyes are bigger

than his stomach"
DIALOGUE
At the restaurant.·
Paul: I bet you had to pull some strings to get reservations at lhis
restaurant. It's absolutely packed here!
Donna: The food is supposed to be out of this world and they don't pad
the bill like the restaurant down the street. Look at this menu!
Let's order three main dishes and split them. I have a weakness
for fish.
Paul: I think your eyes are bigger than your stomach. Did you see
how much food they give you? Look at that woman over there. I
can•t make heads or tails out of what she's eating but look at
the size of that portion!
Donna: Good. I'm starving. By the way, if you have a sweet tooth,
they're known for their incredible desserts. Gee, I hope our
waiter gets on the stick. Why don't you try to catch his eye.
Paul: I haven't seen him since we sat down. I think he vanished into
thin air.
118
Lesson Eight - POPULAR IDIOMS
------------------------------------------------------
DIALOGUE
At the restaurant.
Paul: l bet you had to use your influence to get reservations at this
restaurant. It's absolutely packed here!
Donna: The food is supposed to be extraordinary and they don't add

extra charges to the bill like the restaurant down the street.
Look at this menu! Let's order three main dishes and split them.
I have a passion for fish.
Paul: I think you·re anticipating being able to eat more than you
can. Did you sec bow much food thC)' give you? Look at that
\VOman over there. I can•t determine what she's eating but look
at the size of that portion!
Donna: Good. I'm starving. By the way, if you love sweets, they're known
for their incredible desserts. Gee, I hope our waiter gets more
efficient and speedier. Why don't you try to get his attention.
Paul: I haven't seen him since we sat down. I think he completely

disappeared.
119
Lesson Eight- POPULAR IDIOMS
Paul's ''eyes 'r bigger

then 'is stomach''
DIALOGUE EEl
At the restaurant.
Paul: I betcha had ta pull s·m strings ta get reservations at this

rest' rant. It's absolutely packed here!
Donna: The food's supposs' ta be oudda this world an' they don't pad
the bill like the rcst'rant down the street. Look 'it this menu!
Let's order three main dishes n' splid 'em. I have a weakness
fer fish.
Paul: I think yer eyes ·r bigger th•n yer stomach. Di 'ju see how much
food they give you? Look 'it that woman over there. I can•t
make heads ·r tails oud of what she's eading but look 'it the
size ·a that portion!
Donna: Good. I'm starving. By the way, if you have a sweet tooth,
they're knmvn fer their incredible desserts. Gee, I hope 'R
waider gets on the stick. Why donchu try da catch •jz eye.
Paul: I haven't seen 'im since we sat down. I think 'e vanished inta
thin air.
12C
Vocabulary
catch someone·s eye (to) exp. to attract someone's attention.
usage example (7): That painting really caught my eye.
translation: That painting really attracted my attention.
usage example (2): There's Tony. Try to catch his eye.

translation: There's Tony. Try to get his attention.
eyes bigger than one·s stomach (to have) exp. to anticipate

being able to eat more food than one really can.
usage example (7): Look at all that food you ordered! I think your eyes
are bigger than your stomach.
translation: Look at all that food you ordered! I think you antici-
pated being able to eat more food than you can.
usage example (2): You think you could eat that entire cake? I think your
eyes are bigger than your stomach.
translation: You think you could eat that entire cake? I think your
appetite is smaller than you realize.
get on the stick (to) exp. to become more efficient

and speedier.
Lee 9. Cargot is always late for work. He really

needs "to get on the stick" or he may get fired!
usage example (lJ Get on the stick~ We have to leave here in five minutes!
translatton. Hurry! \Ve have to leave here in five minutes!
usage example (2)" If Karen doesn't get on the stick, I· m leaving without her.
translation· If Karen doesn't hurry, I'm leaving without her.
have a sweet tooth (to) exp. to love sweets.

usage example (I) I have a sweet tooth.l could eat candy for every meal!
translation. I love sweets. I could eat candy for every meal!
usarJe exarnple (2) I never developed a sweet tooth. I guess that's why I
don't have any cavities.
translot!un. I never developed a love for sweets. I guess that's why
l don't have any cavities.
Miss Pratt has a us~;eet tooth."

STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS 1!U
have a weakness for something (to) exp. to have a passion for

something.
usage example (7): I have a weakness for chocolate.
translation. I have a passion for chocolate!
usage example (2): I have a weakness for little babies.

translation. I love little babies.
ti'W•l.'uMI to have a thing for something exp.
usage example: I have a thing for the pastries they
serve in this restaurant.
translation: I have a passion for the pastries they
serve in this restaurant.
out of this world (to be) exp. to be extraordinary 0
usage example (7): This dinner is out of this world.

translation: This dinner is extraordinary.
usage example {2): Her performance was out of this world.

tmnslation. Her performance was extraordinary.
pad the bill (to) exp. to add extra charges to a bilL

usage example {7): How could this restaurant bill be so expensive? I
wonder if the waiter padded the bill.
translation· How could this restaurant bill be so expensive? I
wonder if the waiter added extra charges to the bilL
usage example {2): The hotel charged us for twenty telephone calls to Los
Angeles that we didn't make. I think they're trying to
pad the bill.
translatJon The hotel charged us for twenty telephone calls to Los
Angeles that we didn't make. I think they're trying to
add extra charges to th bill.
pull some strings (to) e.\p. to use one's influence.
usage example (7): I' II have to pull some strings to get a reservation at
this restaurant with such short notice.
translaUon I'll have to use my influence to get a reservation at
this restaurant with such short notice.
usage example (2): I had to pull some strings to get you hired, but I know
it was worth it.
translation.· I had to use my influence to get you hired, but I know
it was worth it.
unable to make heads or tails [out) of someone or

something (to be) exp. to be unable to make sense of someone or
something.
usage example (1): Sometimes Mark is so nice and other times he· s so
nasty. I just can't make heads or tails [out] of him.
tmnslaUon Sometimes Mark is so nice and other times he's so
nasty. I just can't make sense of him.
usageexample(2): Did you see the painting he did'? I can't make heads
or tails [out) of it.
translation. Did you sec the painting he did? I can't make sense
of it.
vanish into thin air (to) exp. to disappear completely.

usage example (7 ): I was speaking with an elderly woman and turned
away for just a few seconds. When I turned back. she
had vanished into thin air!
translation I was speaking with an elderly woman and turned
away for just a few seconds. When I turned hack. she
had completely disappeared!
usage example (2_)- I can't find my \Vallet anyw-here. It just vanished into
thin air!
/ranslatJOn_ I can't find my wallet anywhere. lt_just disappeared!
Practice the Vocabulary Ell

A. Underline the word that best completes the phrase.
1. I love desserts. I have a real sweet (foot, tooth, elbow).
2. There's Irene! I don't think she sees us. See if you can catch her
(spleen, liver, eye).
3. Last night, I went to the movies and saw the most beautiful love
story. I guess I have a (sickness, weakness, feebleness) for
romantic movies.
4. How are you going to eat all that? I think your eyes are bigger
than your (head, ears, stomach).
5. I really had to (push, pull, throw) some strings to get reservations

at this restaurant.
6. The movie was out of this (world, planet, earth)!
7. Where's Charlie? He vanished into (thin, fat, obese) air!
8. What's she holding? I can't make (heads, feet, arms) or tails

[outJ of it.
126
B. Complete the idioms by choosing the appropriate

word from the list below.
air strings
eye tails
eyes tooth
stick weakness
1. I've never seen anyone eat as much chocolate as you. You must
really have a sweet _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
2. You could eat that entire cake? I think your _ _ _ _ _ arc
bigger than your stomach.
3. The burglar vanished into thin _ _ _ __
4. I know you have a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ for pies, so I
baked you an apple pic for dessert.
5. I really had to pull some _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to get this present
delivered to you in time for your birthday.
6. Did you see the dessert Joan made? What was it'! I couldn't make
heads or _ _ _ _ _ _ _ [out] of it.
7. You'd better get on the . We"re already late.
8. That painting really caught my _ _ _ ...- - . Is it an original".'

C. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Choose the idiom from the right column that best
defines the word(s) in italics from the left column.
0 I. I can't determine what the A. vanished into thin air

problem is with your car.
0 2. There's our waitress. Try B. pull some strings

to get her attention.
C. catch her eye

D 3. I have a passion for French
food.
D. your eyes are bigger

0 4. You really need to get than your stomach
more efficient and speedier!
0 5. I think you anticipate being E. have a sweet tooth

able to eat more than you
actually can.
F. on the stick
D 6. I love sweets.
G. weakness
D 7. He totally disappeared!
D 8. I had to use my il?f/uence to H. make heads or tails

get tickets to this play. [out] of
128 PAlLS' EYES r.J(~ 31GG:< -'-c,A.N HiS STO.'v~/\(H ·
D. WORD SEARCH
Circle the words in the grid on the opposite page that
complete the following idiomatic expressions. Words
may be spelled up, down, or diagonally. The first one
has been done for you.
L have a ___ for something (to) exp. to have a passion for

something.
2. some strings to get something (to) exp. to use one's

influence to get something.
3. out of this ___ (to be) exp. to be extraordinary.
4. the bill (to) exp. to add extra charges to a bill.
5. eyes bigger than one"s (to have) exp. to anticipate

being able to eat more than one actually can.
6. unable to make or tails [out) of someone or

something (to be) exp. to be unable to evaluate someone or
something.
7. have a sweet ___ (to) exp. to love sweets.
H. get on the ___ (to) exp. to get more efficient and speedier.
9. _ _ someone"s eye (to) exf>. to attract somconc's attention.
I 0. vanish into~-------- air (to) exp. to disappear completely.

WORD SEARCH
0
s fZ
F 0
0 !'<- J
c 0
s
f)
130
E. DICTATION E!J
to you at first). In addition, the words will be pronounced as .vou would
Lesson Nine - POPULAR IDIOMS
131
Dialogue In Slang
I'm not going to

"take this lying down"
DIALOGUE
Dave and Eric's plans are ruined.
Dave: I guess we can't go to the movies tonight. My younger brother

borrowed my car again without asking. Come to think of it,
this is the third time this month he's done that!
Eric: I'd nip that in the bud if I were in your shoes.
Dave: Well, if he thinks I'm going to take this lying down, he's got
another think coming! This time I'm going to let him have it!
He's got to leam to respect my things.
Eric: If he's anything like my brother, don't bother trying to get him
to turn over a new leaf. You're just beating your head against
the wall. There's only one thing you can do. Take it in stride.
Dave: Well, when he wants to borrow my car next time, I'll tell him
that it's out of the question.
132
DIALOGUE
Dave and Eric's plans are ruined.
Dave: I guess we can't go to the movies tonight. My younger brother

borrowed my car again without asking. In thinking about it
more, this is the third time this month he's done that!
Eric: I'd put a stop to that quickly if I were in your situation.
Dm·e: Well, if he thinks I'm going to be passive about this, he's

destined for an unpleasant surprise! This time I'm going to
reprimand him! He's got to learn to respect my things.
Eric: If he's anything like my brother. don't l5other trying to get him
to change his bad habits. It's useless. There's only one thing
you can do. Accept it calmly.
Da1-e: Well, when he wants to bon·ow my car next time. I'll tell him
that it's not even going to be considered.
133
Lesson Nine • POPULAR IDIOMS
I'm not gonna

"take this lying down"
DIALOGUE a
Dave and Eric's plans 'r ruined.
Dave: I guess we can't go da the movies t'night. My younger brother

borrowed my car again withoud asking. Come ta think of it,
this is the third time this month he's done that!
Eric: I'd nip thad ·n the bud if I were in yer shoes.
Dave: Well, if he thinks I'm gonna take this lying down, he's god
another think coming! This time I'm gonna let "im have it!
He's godda learn ta respect my things.
Eric: If e' s anything like my brother, don't bother trying ta ged 'im ta
turn over a new leaf. Y'r jus' beading yer head against the
wall. There's only one thing you c'n do. Take id ·n stride.
Dave: Well, when 'e wants ta borrow my car nex' time, I'll tell 'im
thad it's oudda the question.
134
Vocabulary
another think coming (to have) exp. to be destined for an un-
pleasant surprise.
usage example (IJ If you really believe you're not going to get caught for
cheating on the test, you've got another think coming.
translauon: If you really believe you're not going to get caught
for cheating on the test, you're destined for an un-
pleasant surprise.
usage example (2)' If Peter thinks he can just come in here and take my
equipment without asking, he's got another think
coming.
translation. If Peter thinks he can just come in here and take my
equipment without asking, he's going to get an un-
pleasant surprise.
I:I!l1!J A common misconception even among native speakers
of English is that this expression is "to have an01her
thing coming." The reason for this is because the letter
"k" in "think" and the "c" in "coming" share the same
sound. Therefore. when pronounced together quickly.
"thin!? coming" and "think coming·· have the same
sound.
beat one·s head against the wall (to) exp. to waste one's time
trying to achieve something.
usage example (1)' If you're going to try and get our professor to change
your grade. you're beating your head against the wall.
translation· If you're going to try and get our prnk~"o; to Lhangc
your grade. you're wasting your time.
usage example(;;; You're going to try to teach Ed hmv to usc a

compute( 1 Relieve me. )ou'rc beating your head
against the wall.
136 I'M NOT GOING TO "TAKE THIS LYING DOWN"
translation: You're going to try to teach Ed how to use a

computer? Believe me, you're wasting your time .
.. Come to think of it... •• exp. "In thinking about it more ... "
usage example (7) I wonder if it was John who stole your wallet. Come
to think of it, I did see him with a wallet that looked
just like yours!
translation.· I wonder if it was John who stole your wallet. In
thinking about it more, I did see him with a wallet that
looked just like yours!
usage example (2) Would you like to go to Hawaii on vacation this

summer? Come to think of it, that's where Jim and
Megan are going, too. Maybe we could all go together.
translation. Would you like to go to Hawaii on vacation this
summer? In thinking about it more, that's where Jim
and Megan are going, too. Maybe we could all go
together.
in someone·s shoes (to be) exp. to be in someone else's situation.

usage example (7)" Your rent is due in two weeks! If I were in your shoes,
I'd be looking for a job today instead of going to the
mOVIeS.
translation Your rent is due in two weeks! If I were in your

situation, I'd be looking for a job today instead of
going to the movies.
usage example (2) Grant s house burned down and he lost his job all in
0
the same dav. I sure wouldn't want to be in his shoes.

- '
translation.· Grant" s house burned down and he lost his job all in
the same day. I sure wouldn ° t want to be in his
situation.
let someone have it (to) exp. to reprimand someone strongly.

usage example (7) · If he insults me again, I'm going to let him have it!
translation: If he insults me again, I'm going to reprimand him.
usage example (2): You should have seen the way Maggie let lohn have it!
translation: You should have seen the way Maggie yelled at John!
ti'WnMMI to give it to someone exp.
usage example: My mother gave it to my brother for
using her car without permission.
translation· My mother reprimanded my brother
for using her car without permission.
\.
~(!
v
The boss looks like he's about

"to let someone have it!.,
138 I'M NOT GOING TO "TAKE THIS LYING DOWN'
nip something in the bud (to} exp. to put a stop to something

quickly before it has a chance to get worse (as one would stop the growth
of a t1ower by clipping or "nipping" the bud).
usage example {7) The children were starting to fight over the ball so [
nipped it in the bud by taking it away.
translation. The children were starting to fight over the ball so [
put a stop to it quickly by taking it away.
usage example (2) Angie is starting an argument with a customer! I'm

going to nip that in the bud right now.
translation: Angie is starting an argument with a customer! I'm
going to put a stop to that right now.
take something in stride (to) exp. to accept something without

getting upset.
usage example {7) She didn't seem too upset when her house burned
dovm. She certainly took it in stride.
translation. She didn't seem too upset when her house burned
down. She certainly accepted it without getting upset.
usage example (2)' If you don't get the first job you apply for, just take
it in stride and keep on trying.
translation. If you don't get the first job you apply for, just accept
it without getting upset and keep on trying.
tif:ln.'OMI to let it slide exp.
usage example.· Don't get so angry~ Just let it slide.
translation. Don't get so angry! Just accept it
without getting upset~
take something lying down (to) exp. to accept something

passively.
usfJge example (I)' He just insulted you. Are you going to take that lying
down?
translation. He just insulted you. Are you going to accept that

passively?
usage example (2) He lied to me about where he was last night. I'm not
going to take that lying down.
translation: He lied to me about where he was last night. I'm not
going to accept that passively.
''That's out of the question! .. exp. "There is absolutely no way that·

will be considered!"
usage example (1) You want to borrow my car to haul fertilizer? That's
out of the question!
translation: You want to borrow my car to haul fertilizer? There's
absolutely no way I'd consider that!
usage example {2) Your sister wants to stay with us for three months?
That's out of the question!
transladon.· Your sister wants to stay with us for three months?
There's absolutely no way I'd consider that!
turn over a new leaf (to) exp. to change one's bad habits.
usage example (1): As usual, I overate and now I feel sick. Starting
tomorrow, I'm turning over a new leaf.
translation.· As usuaL I overate and now I feel sick. Starting
tomorrow, I'm giving up my bad habits.
usage example (2) I'm never going to be late again. Starting right now,
I'm turning over a new leaf.
translation I'm never going to be late again. Starting right now,
I'm changing my bad habits.
140 I'M NOT GOING TO ''TAKE THIS LYING DOWN"
Practice The Vocabulary Ell

A. CROSSWORD
a new leaf lying down
beating your head nip that in the bud
come to think of it question
have it shoes
in stride think
Across Down
16. She's never going to forgive you. 9. exp. "In
You're just against the wall. thinking about it
more."
19. Chris didn't seem upset about the
fire. He just took it _ _ 14. I can't believe Ed
told everyone my
23. I just bought an expensive car and
secret. I'm going to
now it's not working. I'm certainly
let him !
not going to take this . I'm
going to get my money back! 29. Mark just lost his
job and wrecked his
31. Keith and Gordon are starting to
car in the same day.
fight again? I'm going to _ _
I sure wouldn't want
right now! to be in his _ _
34. If he thinb he can just borrow my
car without asking, he has another
_ _ coming.
38. I've decided to turn over _ _ .

I'm going to exercise everyday.
44. I asked my mother if I could
borrow $100, but she said it was
out of the . Maybe I should
ask my father instead.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
I'M NOT GOING TO "TAKE THIS LYING DOWN"
B. Choose the correct phrase that best fits the idiom.

I. That's out of the question.
D a. I'd be glad to lend you some money.
D b. I'd never lend you any money.
D c. Can you lend me some money?
2. I'm going to let Gordon have it!

D a. I'm really angry with him.
Db. I'm really happy with him.
D c. I really like him.
3. I'm not soins to take this lyins down.

D a. I'm going to take a nap.
Db. I'm going to go exercise.
D c. I'm going to take action.
4. You're beating your head against the wall.

D a. You'll be able to convince your father to lend you his car.
D b. You '11 never be able to convince your father to lend you his car.
D c. You killed that poor animal.
5. Nick takes everything in stride.

D a. Nothing upsets him.
Db. Everything upsets him.
D c. He looks very angry.
6. I'm glad I'm not in his shoes.

D a. He's rich.
Db. He has a wonderful life.
D c. He has a terrible life.
7. I'm going to nip that in the bud right now.

D a. I hope he continues to play his radio loudly.
Db. I hope he plays his music all night.
D c. I'm not going to let him play his loud music all night.
8. I've decided to turn over a new leaf.

D a. I'm going to quit smoking, start eating right, and get exercise.
Db. I'm never going to change.
D c. I'm going to do some yard work.
C. Complete the dialogue using the appropriate idioms

beating my head in your shoes

come to think of it let him have it
got another think coming out of the question
in the bud take this lying down
Sally: I'm not going to --'(...._1_,__)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ! If my
little brother thinks he can use my telephone without asking, he's
(2) . This time,
I'm going to .....(..._3_,_)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
Grace: You really need to nip it _..C_..It.._)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ before
he starts doing it every day. _..{=5,._)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
isn't this the third time he's borrowed your telephone without
asking?
Sally: You're right. The next time he wants to use it, I'm going to tell
him that it's --'(""6_,_)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - . I get
so frustrated sometimes. I'm --'(~7_,_)_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
against the wall, trying to get him to understand why I'm angry.
Grace: It must be so annoying living with a little brother. I'm glad I'm
not ~c·~)L_ __________________

144 I'M NOT GOING TO "TAKE THIS LYING DOWN"
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
01. Let's get some ice cream. A. You're right. I'm just beating
my head against the wall.
0 2. You'll never get him to

B. I don't blame you! I think
admit he made a mistake.
you should let him have it!
0 3. Your neighbors are C. I noticed that. You take

getting ready to burn a everything in stride.
huge pile of garbage.
D. Thanks for telling me. I'm

going to nip that in the bud
04. I never get upset about right now!
anything.
E. You're right. Starting today,

Ds. Would you buy me that I'll never get angry again.
necklace? I'm turning over a new leaf.
F. I'm sure glad I'm not in

D 6. My father is going to kill your shoes.
me when he finds out that
I broke his new hammer.
G. That's out of the question.
It's too expensive.
07. You have such a terrible
temper.
H. That sounds great! Come to
think of it, I had ice cream
yesterday. Let's get some
D s. I'm really angry with him. candy instead.
E. DICTATION IJI
{This dictation can be found in Appendix A on page 279).
If you are following along with your cassette, you '.viii now hear a paragraph
Lesson Ten - POPULAR IDIOMS
Bally is "showing her true colors!"
147
Dialogue In Slang
Sally is ''showing
her true colors''
DIALOGUE
Sally's in trouble!
Cecily: You're not going to believe what happened today. You've got to
promise to keep it to yourself.
Carol: Sure, what gives?
Cecily: Today Mr. Peters threw Sally Gibbons out of class!
Carol: On the level?
Cecily: I'll say. I knew Sally would finally show her true colors. When
she got her final test results back from Mr. Peters, she went off
on him. You should have heard her. I've never seen anyone get so
worked up before. To make a long story short, it seems that Mr.
Peters failed her because he caught her cheating.
Carol: That's no laughing matter. That means she'll have to take the
whole course again. I can't believe she's going to have to start
from square one.
Cecily: It serves her right!
148
Lesson Ten • POPULAR IDIOMS
DIALOGUE
Sally's in trouble!
Cecily: You're not going to believe what happened today. You've got
to promise to keep it a secret.
Carol: Sure, what's been happening?
Cecily: Today Mr. Peters threw Sally Gibbons out of class!
Carol: Really?
Cecily: Absolutely. I knew Sally would finally reveal her true
personality. When she got her final test results back from Mr.
Peters, she started yelling at him. You should have heard her.
I've never seen anyone get so upset before. In summary, it
seems that Mr. Peters failed her because he caught her cheating.
Carol: That's serious. That means she'll have to take the whole course
again. I can't believe she's going to have to start from the
beginning.
Cecily: That's just what she deserves!
149
Sally is ''showing
her true colors''
DIALOGUE a
Sally's in trouble!
Cecily: Y're not gonna b'lieve what happened t'day. You've godda
promise ta keep it ta yerself.
Carol: Sh'r, what gives?
Cecily: T'day Mr. Peders threw Sally Gibbons oud of class!
Carol: On the level?
Cecily: All say. I knew Sally would fin'lly show 'er true colors. When
she got 'er final test results back fr'm Mr. Peders, she wen' off
on 'im. You should've heard 'er. I've never seen anyone get so
worked up b'fore. Ta make a long story short. it seems that Mr.
Peders failed 'er b'cause 'e caught 'er cheading.
Carol: That's no laughing madder. That means she ·n haf ta take the
whole course again. I can't b'lieve she's gonna hafta start from
square one.
Cecily: It serves 'er right~
150
151
Vocabulary
get [all] worh. ... .:! up about something (to) np. t\l bec(lme ,-cry
llp'L'l JhlU\ ..;\_lil1ethill~.
Ju-.t becaLhc .'\ancy ~pilkd the milk. )OU dL)n·t haw
to get [all) worked up about it. I"ll ha\e it cleaned
up in a minute~
Ju'l becau-.c' .'\ancy ~pilkcl the milk.. you don't hcl\"C

w get -.11 up-;ct about it. I"ll ha,·c it cleaned up in a
minute~
.\1 y mot her got [all) worked up because I forgot to

bu > bread at the marlet.
\ly mother got upset because I forgot to buy bread at
the market.
to get [all] worked up over something cxp.
Pete and Ed are getting "[all] worked up!"

152 SALLY IS SHOWING HER TRUE COLORS'·
go oH on someone (to) exp. to yell angrily at someone.

usage example (7): If he says anything about my weight, I'm going to go
off on him.
translation: If he says anything about my weight, I'm going to yell
at him.
usage example (2): My sister went off on me because I forgot to tell her
that her boyfriend called.
translation: My sister yelled at me because I forgot to tell her that
her boyfriend called.
1"11 say! exp. • 1. "Absolutely!" • 2. ''You're absolutely right!"

usage example (7): "Do you think he· s handsome?''
"1"11 say!"
translation: "Do you think he· s handsome'?"
"Absolutely!"
usage example (2): "It's raining so hard today!"

"1"11 say!"
trRnslation: "It's raining so hard today!''
"You're absolutely right!"
IZtliii When pronouncing this expression. it's important to
put the emphasis on ''I'll" giving it a higher pitch than
"say."
keep something to oneself (to) exp. to keep something secret.

usage example {1): You have to keep this to younelf. I just found out
that Maggie won the election but it won't be
announced until tomorrow.
translation: You have to keep this secret. I just found out that
Maggie won the election but it won't be announced
until tomorrmv.
usage example (2)' If you're going to say something mean about her. just
keep it to yourself.
translation: If you're going to say something mean about her, just

keep it secret.
no laughing matter (to be) exp. said of a serious situation.

usage example (7): This is no laughing matter. If you don't pass this test,
you're not going to graduate.
translatJon: This is a serious situation. If you don't pass this test,
you're not going to graduate.
usage example (2): It's no laughing matter. You could get arrested for
what you did.
translation. It's not funny. You could get arrested for what you
did.
on the level (to be) exp. to be telling the truth.

usage example (7): The salesman said he's giving us the best price in
town. Do you think he's on the level?
translatJon: The salesman said he's giving us the best price in
town. Do you think he's being truthful?
usage example (2): "Susie and Ron got married yesterday!"

"On the level?"
translation: "Susan and Ron got married yesterday!"
"Truthfully?"
serve someone right (to) exp. to suffer the consequences that one
deserves.
usage example (7): The school isn't going to let Jennifer graduate because
she was caught cheating on her final exam. It serves
her right!
translation· The school isn'tgoing to let Jennifer graduate because
she was caught cheating on her final exam. She's
getting what she deserves!
154 SALLY IS SHOWING HER TRUE COLORS
usage example (2) Ben lied about his experience \\'hen he applied for this
job and toda)' the boss gave him an assignment that
he· s not guaiified to do. If he doesn't get it done. the
boss will fire him. I guess it serves him right for lying.
translatJon Ben lied about his experience when he applied for this
job and today the boss gave him an assignment that
he's not qualified to do. If he doesn't get it clone. the
boss will fire him. I guess he· s going to get \Vhat he
deserves as a consequence for lying.
show one·s true colors (to) exp. to reveal one's true personality.
usage example (i) We all thought Cathy was a timid person but v,·hen
she saved a child from a burning building. she showed
her true colors.
translation: We all thought Cathy was a timid person hut when
she saved a child from a burning building. she showed
her true personality.
usage example (2} \1y best friend has been telling lies about me. I always
thought he \\·as so loyaL but I guess I was wrong. lie· s
fi nail':/ showing his true colors.
trrmslat;on My best friend has been telling lies about me. I ahvays
thought he was so loyaL hut I guess I \Vas wrong. He· s
finally revealing the kind of person he really is.
start from square one (to) exp. to start from the very beginning.
usage example(!) There arc some parts of your story that I don't
understand. Start from square one.
translat;on· There arc some parts of your story that don't
understand. Start from the beginning.
usage example (2). I was typing my book on the computenvhen suddenly

the electricity went off and I lost cver.ything. I had to
start from square one.
translation: I was typing my book on the computer when suddenly

the electricity went off and I lost everything. I had to
start again from the very beginning.
""To make a long story short ... •• exp. "In summary ... "
usage example (7). To make a long story short, Jeff is taking me to France
next month!
mmsiaticr; ln summary. Jeff is taking me to France next month!
usage example (2): First I missed the bus, then I didn't have any money
to call a taxi. To make a long story short, Stephanie
came to my rescue.
lranslatJon: first I missed the bus. then I didn't have any money
to call a taxi. In summary, Stephanie came to my
rescue.
""What gives? .. exp. ·'What's happening?"

usage example (l): You all look so sad. What gives'?
translation You all look so sad. What· s happening?
usage example (2): Yesterday, you were so nice to me and now you seem
so angry. What gives'?
translation: Yestcrday, you were so nice to me and now you seem
so angry. What's happening?
156 SALLY IS "SHOWING HER TRUE COLORS"
Practice the Vocabulary a

A. Were the following idioms used correctly or incorrectly?
I. Why arc you getting so worked up? It's not such a big problem!
0 correct 0 incorrect
2. It's no laughing matter. If we lose this client, our company \viii

have to close forever.
3. Irene is twelve years old. It serves her right!

4. Betty is finally showing her true colors. Her hair is actually reel.
0 correct 0 incoiTcct
5. Your mother really went off on you this morning. Do you

always fight like that'?
6. Make sure you keep this information to yourself. I want you to

tell everyone.
D correct D incorrect
7. I can't believe I burned this cake. It took me rour hours to make

this. Now I have to start from square one.
D correct 0 incorrect
R. "Do you think Julie's preuy·?" "'I'll say! She's ugly!"

0 correct D incorrect
B. Underline the appropriate word that best completes

the phrase.
I. What (gives, takes, receives)? Did something bad happen to you

today?
2. To make a long story (long, longer, short), I'm moving to Paris

next week.
3. Peggy cheated on her test? On the (slant, elevation, level)?
4. Why are you getting so worked (up, down, out)? It's nothing to
get upset about.
5. Did you see how mean Jack was yesterday? I knew he'd show
his true (colors, numbers, clothing) one of these days.
6. The boss really went (off, on, up) on me for being late this
morning.
7. John got fired for stealing money from the company. Frankly, it
serves him (straight, left, right).
8. It took me three weeks to finish this painting. Today I ripped the

canvas by accident. Now 1 have to start from (circle, triangle,
square) one.
158 SALLY IS "SHOWING HER TRUE COLORS
C. Choose the most appropriate definition of the words

in boldface.
D I. Why are you getting so worked up·?

0 a. upset and angry
0 b. tired
0 c. excited and happy
D 2. Is Jim being on the level?
0 a. untruthful
Db. truthful
0 c. stubborn
D 3. Your girlfriend really went off on you.
0 a. yelled at you
0 b. ran away from you
0 C. hit ~iOU
D -+. It serves you right for lying!
i:J a. 1· m mad at you
0 b. I commend y·ou
0 c. You got the consequences .YOU deser\'ed
D 5. This is a secret. so you have to keep it to yourself.
0 a. tell everyone
Db. listen carefully
0 c. keep it a secret
D 6. Today Eric showed his true colors.
0 a. showed us his colorful ne\\ shirt
0 b. ren.'alcJ his deepest secrL'ts
0 c. revealed his true personality
D 7. This is no laughing matter.
0 a. extreme!\. funnY.
0 h. \'Cry serious
0 c. mildlv. funll\.
D X. What gives·)
[]a. \V'hat·s hapJ1L'Ilin~
Ll h. \Vho gave ~ ou th;lt
D L·. \Vhat arL' you L'atin~
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
Choose the correct idiom that goes with the phrase.
I. You have to promise not to tell anyone this secret.

D a. I'll keep it to myself.
Db. I'm on the level.
2. Mitch got in trouble for stealing. Now he'll have to be in jail for
a year.
D a. Mow he'll have to start from square one.
Db. Frankly, it serves him right.
3. Jennifer's doctor just discovered she has a terrible infection.

D a. That's no laughing matter.
Db. Mow she'll have to start from square one.
4. I'm angry about what Jay did to me. I supposed I should calm
down.
D a. It serves you right!
Db. It's nothing to get [all] worked up about.
5. I just got fired today!

D a. On the level!
Db. I'll say.
6. Do you think David is handsome?

D a. It serves him right.
Db. I'll say.
7. I lost my briefcase w·hich contained rny entire report!

D a. Mow I'll have to start from square one.
Db. Mow you're showing your true colors.
8. Beverly started yelling at c\·cryonc for no reason.

0 a. I knew she'd show her true colors.
0 b. Mow she'll have to start from square one.
160 SALLY IS "SHOWING HER TRUE COLORS"
E. DICTATION IJI
{This dictation can be found in Appendix A on page 280).
containing many ofthe idioms from this section. The paragraph will be read
REVIEW EXAM
FOR LESSONS 6-1 0
(Answers to Review, p. 269)
A. Underline the appropriate word that best completes

the phrase.
1. You really went to (city, town, country) on this party!
2. For the past two weeks, I've been trying to teach my mother how
to drive. I don't think she'll ever get the (hang, bang, gang) of it.
3. Did you hear the (split, hole, crack) Gina made about Kevin? I
always thought they were friends!
4. You want to go running again? I haven't gotten my second

(wind, breeze, gust) yet.
5. What a beautiful restaurant! You must have had to pull some

(ropes, cords, strings) to get reservations.
6. You'd better get on the (branch, stick, wood) or you' II be late.
7. You have nine children'? I'm glad I'm not in your (shoes, thongs,
sandals). I don't think I could do it!
8. I've been trying to explain the problem to him, but he'll just
never understand it! I'm tired of beating my (head, foot, elbow)
against the wall.
9. l made the most beautiful cake but I accidentally dropped it on

the noor. Now I have to start from square (one, two, three) and
make a new dessert.
I 0. Barbara got so mad that she st~uted throwing things all over the
office. I couldn't believe it. I thought she was such a calm
person. Well, you always said she'd show her true (colors,
numbers, figures) one of these days.
161
162 REVIEW OF LESSONS 6-1 0
B. CROSSWORD
Step 2: Using your answers, fill in the crossword puzzle
on pag~ 165.
a new leaf dust level

air eye nerve
blind feet stomach
breath fishing tails
brush hair tooth
case in the bud worked
dolled laughing world
Across
1. I'm going to turn over _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ . Starting

today, I'm not going to eat so many candies.
6. Do you really think you can eat all of that? I think your eyes arc
bigger than your _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
7. I'm tired of you two fighting all the time. I'm going to nip this
argument _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ right now!
11. Janice is teaching Barbara how to cook? That sure is a case of the
blind leading the _ _ _ _ _ . They're both terrible cooks.
12. I was riding my bicycle down the hill and I bit the _ _ _ __
I even tore my new pants.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF Atv\ERICAN IDIOrv\5 163
Across (continued)
14. I can't go to the party tonight. I look tctTible. I'm having a bad
_ _ _ _ _ _ day.
17. This is my first time playing tennis. I'm just getting my

_ _ _ _ _ _ wet.
18. \Vhy are you getting all ___________ up. Calm
down!
20. The chocolate cake Nancy made was out of this _ _ _ _ __
I don't know when I've eaten anything so delicious.
Down
2. I don't think I could ever get up enough _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ to
go parachuting.
3. John stole ten dollars from the company. It's no _ _ _ _ __
matter. He may go to jail.
4. Did you see the way Alice v..ras waving her hand around so
everyone could see her engagement ring'! You just know she's
_ _ _ _ _ _ for a compliment.
5. My mother got on my because I forgot my

sister's birthday. I'm going to get her a present right now.
Down (continued)
8. Did you see that painting Keith did? What's it supposed to be? I
can't make heads or _ _ _ _ _ _ _ out of it.
9. Carol said she would be here at seven o'clock, but don't hold
your _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ . She's always late.
10. All the other girls at the high school reunion were all
_____________ up except for me!
11. The surgeon said that I had a _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ with death

during the operation. I'm lucky to be alive!
13. You're always thinking about chocolate. I've never known

anyone with such a sweet _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
15. Where's Wally? He was standing next to me just a moment ago.

I know he couldn't have just vanished into thin _ _ _ __
16. Steve just told me that the boss is going to close the company. I
didn't believe him in the beginning, but ~e promised me that he
was on the __________
19. What a beautiful necklace you're wearing. It caught my
- - - - - - - - - the moment I entered the room.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE
C. TRUE or FALSE
1. If you're all dolled up, you're dressed badly.

0 True 0 False
2. If your mother gets on your case, she's criticizing you.

0 True 0 False
3. If you're getting your feet wet in an activity, you're very

experienced.
0 True 0 False
4. If someone says that the food is out of this world, it means that
the food was imported.
0 True 0 False
5. If you have a sweet tooth, you love sweets.

0 True 0 False
6. If the restaurant pads your bill, you've been undercharged.

0 True 0 False
7. If you take something lying down, you're actively trying to

change something.
OTrue OFalse
X. If you let someone have it, you are reprimanding him/her.

0 True 0 False
9. If you keep something to yourself, you are informing everyone.

OTruc OFalsc
I 0. If you turn over a new leaf, you are changing your bad habits.
0 True 0 False
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
D I. I'm not being allowed to A. That's out of the question.

graduate college because I Every time you use some-
failed the math final! thing of mine, you ruin it.
D 2. Greg got a speeding ticket. B. I see you still have a

weakness for tall blonds.
D 3. Is your house guest still c. On the level? Won't they

bothering you? let you take the test again?
04. May I b\.liTO~' your S\\'eater D. I don't know. Come to

tonight'? think of it. Peter was the
only person in your house
D s. I wonder \Vho took my last night. Maybe he took it
wallet. by accident!
E. It serves him right. He needs

D 6. I wish I didn · t get so upset to learn to drive slov-,;er.
about little problems.
F. Don't hold your breath. Do
0 7. Did you see the new you know how expensive
employee? He's so that would be?
handsome!
G. I can't believe you bought
0 8. What's he eating? into that! He's a millionaire!
H. I don't know. I can't make

0 9. I wonder if my parents will heads or tails out of it.
buy me a new car for
graduation. I. I'll say. I don't rhink he' II
ever leave!
DIO. I lent George ten dollars
because he said he needed J. Maybe you need to leam
money for the bus. how to take things in stride.
SPECIALTY IDIOMS
& PHRASES
v Two-, Three-, and Four-Syllable Idioms
Beginning with the Same Letter
knick-knack • mish-mash • criss-cross
v Repeating Words
so-so • bye-bye • up-and-up
v Proverbs
The shoe's on the other foot
Out of sight, out of mind
Actions speak louder than words
v Survival Words & Phrases

(That Could Save Your Lifel)
Freeze! • Hand it over! • Step outta the carl
169
Lesson Eleven • ALLITERATION
Dialogue In Slang
Earl finds
an interesting
''knick-knack''
DIALOGUE
A day of housecleaning.
Earl: Did you see this knick knack I found?
Anne: Where did you get that'?
Earl: In this box of bric·a-brac your mother's been saving. What a

mish mash of junk. For a person who likes everything spic-and·
span, she sure did let everything get dirty.
Anne: Look! Here's my old ping-pong paddle! And my grandfather's
watch! I haven't seen that in years. I always liked the criss-cross
pattern on the back. Listen. It still works! Hear it going
tick·tock? It's still in tip-top shape. I'm so excited that my
grandparents are coming here next week. I know they're going
to love their new grandchild.
Earl: I just hope they have the energy to play with him.
Anne: Oh, they're both full of vim-and-vigor. They absolutely love the
pitter·patter of little feet around the house, too.
170
Lesson Eleven - ALLITERATIOM
DIALOGUE
Earl: Did you see this insignificant object I found?
Anne: Where did you get that?
Earl: In this box of various items your mother's been saving. What a
collection of junk. For a person who likes everything extremely
clean, she sure did let everything get dirty.
Anne: Look! Here's my old table tennis paddle! And my grandfather's

watch! I haven't seen that in years. I always liked the crossing
lines on the back. Listen. It still works! Hear it ticking? It's still
in excellent shape. I'm so excited that my grandparents are
coming here next week. I know they're going to love their new
grandchild.
Earl: I just hope they have the energy to play with him.
Anne: Oh, they're both full of energy. They absolutely love the sound
of children around the house, too.
171
Lesson Eleven • ALLITERATION
Earl finds
'n int'r'sting
''knick-knack''
DIALOGUE a
Earl: Did ju see this knick-knack I found?

Anne: Whe~e' d ja get that?
Earl: In this box 'a brlc-a-brac yer mother's been saving. Whad a
mish-mash 'a junk. Fer a person who likes ev'rything spic-'n-
span, she sher did led ev'rything get dirdy.
Anne: Look! Here's my old ping-pong paddle! An' my gran'father's
watch! I haven't seen thad'n years. I always liked the criss-cross
paddem on the back. Listen. It still works! Hear it going
tick-tock? It's still 'n tip-top shape. I'm so excided that my
gran'parents 'r coming here next week. I know they're gonna
love their new grandchild.
Earl: I just hope they have thee energy da play with 'im.
Anne: Oh, they're both full 'a vlm-'n-vigor. They absolutely love the
pidder-padder of Iiddle feed aroun' the house, too.
172
Vocabulary
bric-a-brac exp. a group of inexpensive collectible objects, usually

displayed in one's home.
usage example (1): This is some brlc-a-brac I've collected over the years.
translaaon: These are some objects I've collected over the years.
usage example (2): The burglars stole a lot of bric-a-brac from our house.
Luckily, they didn't find my jewelry.
translaaon: The burglars stole of a lot of insignificant objects from
our house. Luckily, they didn't find my jewelry.
criss-cross • 1. (noun) a pattern or design made of crossing lines •

2. (verb) to cross.
usage example (7): Last night, my mother wore a blue dress with a criss-
cross pattern on the front.
translaaon: Last night, my mother wore a blue dress with a design
made of crossing lines on the front.
usage example (2): The top to my sister's bathing suit criss-crosses in the
back.
translation: The top to my sister's bathing suit crosses in the back.
knick-knack exp. a name given to an insignificant object or trinket;

a "thing."
usage example (1): How long have you been collecting these knick·
knacks?
translation: How long have you been collecting these things?
usage example (2): I brought you a little gift from my vacation. It's just a
little knick-knack I thought you'd like.
1711 JEFF FINDS AN INTERESTING "KNICK-KNACK"
translauon.- I brought you a little gift from my vacation. It's just a

little object I thought you'd like.
1'1;1;it;Sitn:ij nicknack exp.
mish-mash exp. a collection of unrelated items or elements_

usage example (7): At the party last night, they served a mish-mash of
different foods. The appetizers were Ethiopian, the
main course was a French delicacy, the vegetables
were prepared Spanish style, and the desserts were all
Greek.
translauon: At the part last night, they served a variety of different
foods_ The appetizers were Ethiopian, the main course
was a French delicacy, the vegetables were prepared
Spanish style, and the desserts were all Greek.
usage example (2): I don't like this painting. The artist used a mish-mash
of colors. I would have preferred it if he had used
different shades of only a few colors.
translation: I don't like this painting. The artist used a variety of
unrelated colors. I would have preferred it if he had
used different shades of only a few colors.
ping pong exp. table tennis (originally a trademark for table tennis
equipment).
usage example (7): Do you know how to play ping pong?
translauon. Do you know to play table tennis?
usage example (2): Ping pong is very popular in Japan.

translauon: Table tennis is very popular in Japan.
m!III Ping Pong is a trademark and should be capitalized
(although generally it is not)_
pitter-patter exp. noise made by anything that causes alternating tones

(such as rain, footsteps, etc-).
usage example (1): I love the pitter-patter of the rain.
translation: I love the sound the rain makes.
usage example (2): Soon, you' II be hearing the pitter-patter of little feet
at our house. I'm going to be a father!
translation. Soon, you'll be hearing the sound of little feet at our
house. I'm going to be a father!
Ah, the "pitter-patter" of little feet ...
spic-and-span exp. extremely clean.

usage example (7): We have to get the house spic-and-span before my
relatives come to visit.
translation We have to get the house completely clean before my
relatives come to visit.
usage example (2)" I've been cleaning the oven for tViO hours. It· s finally
spic-and-span.
translation. I've been cleaning the oven fortwo hours. It's finally
ver_y clean.
176 JEFF FINDS AN INTERESTING "KNICK-KNACK"
tick-tock exp. the sound made by a clock (usually a pendulum clock).

usage example {7): The sound of my clock going tick-tock kept me awake
all night.
translation: The sound of my clock ticking kept me awake all night.
usage example (2): What's that loud tick-tock sound I hear?

translatJ'on: What's that loud ticking sound I hear?
1'1;1;it;iit•l,'RI tick-tocking e~tp.
usage example: Do you hear that tick-locking coming
from your neighbor's house?
translation: Do you hear that ticking sound coming
from your neighbor's house?
tip-top exp. the highest degree of excellence.

usage example (1): I feel tip-top today.
translation: I feel in the most excellent health today.
usage example (2): My grandmother is always in tip-top condition.

translation: My grandmother is always in the most excellent
condition.
vim-and-vigor exp. energy, stamina.

usage example {l): Your mother went hiking with you? She must have
lots of vim-and-vigor.
translation: Your mother went hiking with you? She must have
lots of energy.
usage example (2): Don't you want to go skiing with us'? Have you lost
your vim-and-vigor?
translation: Don't you want to go skiing with us? Have you lost
your energy and stamina?
Practice The Vocabulary a

(Answers to Lesson II, p. 270)
A. Choose the correct phrase that best fits the idiom.
1. What's that pitter-patter sound!

0 a. My neighbor must have dropped something heavy.
0 b. It must be a fire truck passing by.
0 c. I think it just started to rain.
2. I've never seen you with such vim-and-vigor!
0 a. You must be feeling terribly sick.
0 b. You must be feeling great.
0 c. You must be very confused.
3. What's making that tick-tock sound?
0 a. That's the sound of my clock.
0 b. That's the sound of my dog.
0 c. That's the sound of my cat.
4. I'm in tip-top shape.
0 a. I have a bad cold.
0 b. 1 have no energy.
0 c. I've never felt better.
5. My mother gave me a little knick-knack she bought in France.
0 a. It was extremely expensive.
0 b. It was a priceless painting.
0 c. It was an inexpensive souvenir.
6. Jeannie used a mish-mash of spices in her fish sauce.
0 a. She used only one spice.
0 b. She didn't use any spices at all.
0 c. She used many different spices.
7. Your kitchen Is so spic-and-span.
D a. Is it always this clean?
Db. Is it always this dirty?
D c. Is it always this bright?
B. FILL-IN BLOCKS
Step 1: Fill in the blanks below with the appropriate
word from the following list.
Step !: Using your answers, fill in the blocks on the
opposite page (number 3 has been done for you).
brae mash tock
cross pong top
knack span vigor
ACROSS ONLY
I. Dianne gave me this pretty knick- _ _ _ _ _ _ from her trip
to Los Angeles.
2. At the concert, we heard a mish- _ _ _ _ _ _ of different

styles like jazz, classical, rock, and gospel.
3. Anna collects so much bric-a-_ _ _ _ _ that she hardly has

any room in her house.
4. I want your bedroom to be spic-and- _ _ _ _ _ _ _ before

our guests arrive.
5. My new· dishes have a pretty criss- _ _ _ _ _ _ pattern.
6. Would you like to play a game of ping- _ _ _ _ _ _ ')
7. I don't think my watch is working. I don't hear it going

tick- _ _ _ _ __
~- After being sick for a week, I'm finally in tip- _ _ _ _ shape.
9. My grandfather is eighty years old and he's still full of

vim-and- _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
FILL-IN BLOCKS
C. Underline the appropriate word that best completes

the phrase.
1. Your house is so spic-and-(spoon, spin, span)! I've never seen it

this clean.
2. The rain is making a pitter-(pitter, patter, pot) sound on the

window.
3. I love collecting little knick-(knives, knacks, knats) from

different places that I visit.
4. Sandy has decorated her house in a mish-(mush, mash, mat) of

different styles.
180 JEFF FINDS AN INTERESTING 'KNICK-KNACK'
5. The top to my sister's bathing suit criss-( crosses, greases, cruises)

in the back.
6. I've never been h:::althier.l'm in tip-(top, tock, tick) shape.
7. My clock makes a loud tick-(tip, top, tock) sound.
8. My grandmother is ninety years old and still has lots of

vim-and-(liquor, vicar, vigor).
E. DICTATION Ell
The tirst time the paragraph is presented, simply listen in order to get
to write down what you heard. The third time the paragraph is read, foliO\\'
A CLOSER LOOK:
More Two-, Three-, and Four-Word Idioms
Beginning with the Same Letter
chit-chat v. & n. trivial conversation.

usage example (7) [as a verb]
Let's go somewhere and chit-chat for a while.
translaUon: Let's go somewhere and converse for a while.
usage example (2): [as a noun]

The party \\'as fun. There was lots of chit-chat and
good food.
translation: The party was fun. There was lots of conversation and
good food.
clip-clop exp. This refers to the sound made by a horse as it walks on

hard ground.
usage example. Do you hear that clip-clop sound? There must be a
horse nearby.
translation.· Do you hear that sound a horo,e makes as it walks?
There must be a horse nearby.
ding-dong n. This refers to the sound made by a ringing bell.

usage example. Did you hear that ding-dong sound? I think someone
is at your front door.
tJanslaUon Did you hear that bell sound? I think someone is at
your front door.
fit as a fiddle (to be) exp. to be extremely healthy (used primarily

by residents of mral areas).
usage example 1 v.··as sick yesterday but today I'm fit as a fiddle.
translation. I was sick yesterday but today I'm in great health.
flip-flop (to) e.\]J. to reverse the order of something.
usaye example (7): The answer to this mathematical problem isn't 32. If s
23. You flip-flopped the numbers.
translatkm: The answer to this mathematical problem isn't 32. If s
23. You reversed the numbers.
~ flip-flop (to do a) exp. to change dramatically.

usage example: My mom did a real flip flop yesterday·.
She said I couldn't go to the party under
any circumstances. Today she said that
I could go!
goochy-goo exp. These words arc used to indicate that someone is being
tickled.
usage example Your baby is so cute! Cioochy-goo~
ttanslation· Your baby is so cute! Tickle, tickle!

llf;l;!t;iw!IIOEI goochy-goochy-goo exp.
111;! ;l!;i !leJIIDEI coochy-[coochy] coo exp.
jingle-jangle exp. The sound made by metallic objects rubbing against

each other.
usage example· Do you have keys in your pocket? I hear a jingle-
jangle sound as you walk.
translatkJn: Do you have keys in your pocket? I hear a jingling

sound as you 'A'alk.
junk-food junkie exp. a person who loves unhealthful food such as

candies, cookies. fried foods. etc.
usage example. I admit that I'm a junk-food junkie. I could eat
cookies all day!
translatiOn: I admit that I love unhealthful food.! could eat cookies
all day!
riH-raff exp. dishonorable people.
usage example.· You like these people? They're nothing but riff-raff!
translation You like these people? They're all totally dishonorable.
right-as-rain exp. perfectly fine (used only by natives of the southern

part of the U.S.).
usage example: Evcrythi ng' s right-as-rain!
translation: Everything's going perfectly fine!
see-saw n. A recreational device on which two children, seated at

opposite ends of a long plank balanced in the middle, alternately ride
up and down as each exerts his/her weight.
usage example Let's go play on the see-saw~
ti'W nan tw teeter-totter n.
ship-shape exp. very orderly and clean (originally a nautical term).

usage example Your house is really ship-shape. My house is ahvays
so messy.
translation: Your house is really orderly and clean. My house is
always so messy.
sing-song exp. alternating up and down in pitch.

usage example. Italian and Chinese are very sing-song languages.
translation: Italian and Chinese arc very musical languages.
yick-yack exp. to talk or chatter meaninglessly.

usage example· Every time I sec Jim, all he ev·er docs is yick-yack~
translation.· Every time 1 see Jim, all he ever does is talk and talk
about nothing!
1 /;ld !;\!It): IDEl yickety-yack e:rp.
1
l'l;!jl r;i dt1 ,'IE)EI yackety-yack e.\p.

11/;!;lu!I:J:IIDEI yack-yack exp.
Lesson Twelve- REPEATING WORDS
Tom is "going toe-to-toe"

with everyone!
185
Dialogue In Slang
Tom is ''going toe-to-

toe'' with everyone
DIALOGUE
Don and Paul are talking about one of their co-workers.
Don: More and more, people arc having trouble seeing eye-to-eye
with Tom. I always thought he was a great guy
through-and-through but lately he's been a real so-and-so.
People are even starting to wonder if he's on the up-and-up.
Paul: I've told him that over-and-over. Frankly, I think he really

enjoys going toe-to-toe with everyone.
Don: He sure does have an out-and-out bad temper! If you don't

agree with him, he starts screaming!
Paul: Maybe he just needs some R-and-R. I think I need to have a

tete-a-tete with him today.
186
Translation of di~1gue f*' standard English
DIALOGUE
Don and Paul are talking about one of their co-workers.
Don: Increasingly often, people are having trouble agreeing with

Tom. I always thought he was a great guy in every respect but
lately he's been a real [replacement for any vulgar word).
People are even starting to wonder if he's honest.
Paul: I've told him that many times. Frankly, I think he really enjoys
debating with everyone.
Don: He sure does have a really bad temper~ If you don't agree with
him. he statts screaming!
Paul: Maybe he just needs some rest and recreation. I think I need to
have a private discussion with him today.
187
Lesson Twelve - REPEATING WORDS
Tom is ''going toe-da-

toe '' with ev 'ryone
DIALOGUE 1m
Don 'n Paul 'r talking about one 'a their co-\vorkers.
Don: More 'n more, people 'r having trouble seeing eye-da-eye with
Tom. I always thod 'e was a great guy through-'n-through but
lately he's been a real so-'n-so. People 'r even starding ta wonder
if 'e' s on thee up-'n-up.
Paul: I've told' im thad over-'n-over. Frankly, I think 'e really enjoys
going toe-da-toe with ev'ryone.
Don: He sure does have 'n out-'n-out bad temper! If ya don' agree
with 'im, 'e starts screaming!
Paul: Maybe 'e jus' needs s'm R-'n-R. I think I need ta have a tade-a-
tate with 'im t'day.
188
Vocabulary
Ciiiii There is a lot of argument among copyeditors and dictionaries
whether many of the following repeating lvords should be
hyphenated or not. Therefore, don't be surprised that throughout
your journey into American-English, you may encounter some
differences in hmv these types of expressions are written.
eye-to-eye (to see) exp. to be in agreement.

usage example (1): We don't see eye-to-eye on how to raise children.
transla[jon: We don't agree on how to raise children.
usage example (2): My boss and I don't see eye-to-eye on how a

company should be run.
translation: My boss and I don't agree on how a company should
be run.
more and more exp. increasingly often.

usage example {7): More and more, people are moving to California.
translation: Increasingly often, people are moving to California.
usage example {2): There's a lot of crime in our city. It's happening more
and more.
trans/a{jon: There's a lot of crime in our city. It's happening
increasingly often.
li[•i•JD!I As seen above, when followed by a comma (or pause),

the expression "more and more" means "increasingly
often." However, if not followed by a comma (or
pause), the expression means "an increasing amount."
For example:
More and more, people are moving to California.
Increasingly often, people are moving to California.
More and more people are moving to Cal(fornia.
An increasing number of people are moving to
California.
190 TOM IS "GOING TOE-TO-TOE" WITH EVERYONE
I :tn •ID! When followed by a comma (or pause), the expression

"less and less" means "increasingly seldom."
However, if not followed by a comma (or pause), the
expression means "a decreasing amount.'' For
example:
Less and less, people are buying cars.
Decreasingly often, people are buying cars.
Less and less people are bu·ying new cars.
A decreasing number of people are buying new cars.
out-and-out exp. complete, total (may be used to modify a noun or a verb).

usage example {1): He's an out-and-out liar!
translation. He's a complete liar!
usage example (2): He out-and-out lied!

t;anslation: He completely lied!
over-and-over exp. repeatedly.

usage example (7): I've told you over-and-over to take your shoes off
before you walk on the new carpet.
translation. I've told you repeatedly to take your shoes off before
you walk on the new carpet.
usage example (2)" I've told you five times how to use this computer
program, but you keep making the same mistakes
over-and-over!
translation: I've told you five times how to use this computer
program, but you keep making the same mistakes
repeated! y!
l'l;ldf;iii•1:SI over-and-over again exp.
R-and-R exp. (originally military lingo) rest and recreation (or rest and
relaxation).
usage example (I) ! 've been \Vorking hard. I need some R-and-R.
trans/alton. I've been v..-orking hare!. I need some rest and recreation.
usage example (2}' You look very tired today. I think you need some
R-and-R.
translatkn You look very tired today. I think you need some rest
and recreation.
CliiJI The expression "R and R" IS always pronounced

R 'nR.
David's idea of "R 'n R."
so-and-so exp. • 1. a replacement for the name of a person; someone •

2. a euphemistic replacement for any vulgar or ob.scene noun pertaining
to a person.
usage example (7). What would you do if so-and-so approached you and
demanded all your money?
translation.· What would you do if someone approached you and
demanded all your money?
usage example (2_). How can you let that so-and-so say such mean things
to you?
19! TOM IS "GOING TOE-TO-TOE" WITH EVERYONE
translation: How can you let that [vulgar or obscene noun

pertaining to a person] say such mean things to you?
I:IlliD The expression "so-and-so" is always pronounced

so- 'n-so.
tite-a-tite exp. (French) a private conversation between two people.

usage example (7). The boss is having a tete-a-tete with Richard. Do you
think he's going to get fired'?
translation: The boss is having a private conversation with
Richard. Do you think he's going to get fired?
usage example (2): We need to have a tete-a-tete right now. Please come
into my office.
translatJon: We need to have a private conversation right now.
Please come into my office.
I:IlliD This expression comes from French meaning a

"head-to-head." In France, the pronunciation is
"tet-a-tet." However in America, it is commonly
pronounced "tate-a-tate. "
through-and-through exp. in every respect, completely.

usage example {7): Kim's an actress through-and-through. She was in
her first play at age five and still loves the theater.
translatJon: Kim's an actress in every respect. She was in her first
play at age five and still loves the theater.
usage example (2)' The president of our school is a leader through-and·

through.
translatJon: The president of our school is a leader in every
respect.
toe-to-toe (to go) exp. to debate or compete.

usage example {7): Joe and Ann went toe to toe on the issue of \vomen' s
rights.
translation: Joe and Ann debated the issue of women's rights.
usage example (2). The two best soccer teams in the world will be going
toe-to-toe tomorrow. You won't want to miss it!
translaUon· The t\vo best soccer teams in the world will be
competing tomOITOw. You won't want to miss it!
up-and-up (to be on the) exp. to be candid and honest.

usage example 0-J: Do you think that politician is on the up-and-up?
translation. Do you think that politician is candid and honest?
usage example (2): That salesman told me that this is the best car for my
money. Do you think he's being on the up-and-up?
translation· That salesman told me that this is the best car for my
money. Do you think he's being candid and honest?
Do you think this politician is "on the up and up?"

194 TOM IS "GOING TOE-TO-TOE' WITH EVERYONE
Practice The Vocabulary D

(Anstvers to Lesson 12, p. 271)
A. Are the following idioms used correctly or incorrectly?
I. More and more, people are moving to the country.

2. Steve and I don't see eye-to-eye on how to do this job. We

always agree on everything.
3. He's an out-and-out thief! He steals other people's possessiom

all the time!
4. She makes the same mistakes over-and-over.

5. You look very rested. Maybe you need some R-and-R.

6. Do you believe what that so-and-so did to me?

0 correct 0 inconect
7. This meal looks great! What a tete-a-tete!

8. Ed and Barbara went toe-to-toe all night. You should have seen
them dance!
0 correct 0 incmrect
more and more tete-a-tete

over-and-over through-and-through
Rand R to go toe-to-toe
so-and-so up-and-up
1. increasingly often.
Answer: ________________________________________
2. in every respect, completely.
Answer: _______________________________________
3. candid and honest.
Answer: ________________________________________
4. 1. a replacement for the name of a person: someone •

2. a euphemistic replacement for any vulgar or obscene
noun pertaining to a person.
Answer: _______________________________________
5. repeatedly.
Answer: ________________________________________
6. (originally military lingo) rest and recreation.
Answer: _______________________________________
7. (French) a private conversation bem·een two people.
Answer: ________________________________________
8. to debate or compete (\\·ith someone).

Answer: _____________________________________
196 TOM IS "GOING TOE-TO-TOE" WITH EVERYONE
C. Underline the appropriate words that best complete

the phrase.
I. l don't agree with you. l' m afraid we just don't sec

(mouth-to-mouth, out-and-out, eye-to-eye).
2. r vc told you (toe-to-toe, over-and-over, tete-a-tete) not to usc

my bicycle vvithout asking first.
3. (Through-and-through, more and more, toe-to-toe), people arc

complimenting me on my clothes. It happens almost every day!
4. Larry and I had a (tete-a-tete, more and more, so-and-so)

'Nhich lasted an hour. It was very productive. We need to have
more meetings like that in the future.
5. You look exhausted. I think you need some (R·and·R, eye-to-eye,

up-and-up).
6. She told you I stole her money'? She's an (eye-to-eye, out-and-out,

more and more) liar!
7. Irene is honest (through-and-through, out-and-out, eye-to-eye).
g_ I don't trust him. I don't think he's on the (up-and-up, so-and-so,

R-and·R).
0. I don't like him. He's a real (so-and-so. more and more. R-and·R).
10. You never agree \Nith anyone. You must like going
(over-and- over. eye-to-eye. toe-to-toe) vvith people.
STREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF i\lv\cRIC'\1~ iuiOtv\S
1. I-Ie ~ s a gooJ \\ orker thU"~~g~~~~:~ti . . g~;r~~9J~].

· • a. in e\·ery respect. complc;·,ely
L...i b. occasionally
C c. in the mornings
.., Todd went toe-io-ioe V~ith Cindy yec.t;;:·Ja:-.
C a. took a walk
Db. debated
U c. v.·ent dancing
J. Our new boss is a real SO·and-sc.

D a. wonderful person
~ b. rich person
_j c. 1a euphernistic repbccment for an;. \ uig.ar or obscenc n':T;
pertair:ing to ~! person)
..J.. He hit me cveNmd·c'!l'e~~

D a. on the head
[J h. repeatedly
CJ c. 'Xith his fist
5. Donna is an out-andi-out traitor. She told everyone n;y secret.
1 a. compiete, total
::::Jb. mild
C c. extraverted
6. More and mc;e. l gt:t ncnmh when I lla\e to gi\c speeches.
0 a. incrcasingiy often
~b. decreasingly often
:______:C. ~ . Jn1-::til1lCS
7. Jim and I dun·t see ey~·to-eye on ~u:yti:i:~g.

~-a. disagree
~!b. ~l~re~~
~c. count
X. I" \\. hc~.:·n \\ urki:~:;:. ldu l:~tl\~. i think l ih:-:~l ~~)liJC ~ .. ~t~d . . ~.
c
: - ~t. rc~:--:t ;,tnd rL:..:rcation
~.J h. rc-.t ~u1d running

c~ L'. rc:--t and rebuilding
198 TOM IS "GOING TOE-TO-TOE' WITH EVERYONE
E. DICTATION lED
(This dictation can be found in Appendix A on page 2 81).
If you arc following along with your cassette, you wi II now hear a paragraph
containing many of the idioms from this section. The paragraph will he read
by a native speaker at nonmll conversational speed (which may seem fast
to you at first). In addition, the words vvill be pronounced as .vou lvoufd
to write down what you heard. The third time the paragraph is read, follow·
A CLOSER LOOK:
More Repeating Words
If you've ever been accused of repeating yourself, you're in good company.

The following is a list of repeating \Vords which may seem to go "on and
on" at first. However, these words shouldn't be "pooh-poohed" since they
certainly occur "again and again" in daily conversations.
again and again exp. repeatedly.

usage example.· I've told you again and again to stop bothering me!
translation. I've told you repeatedly to stop bothering me!
boo-boo e.\fJ. (baby talk) injury.

usage example. Did you get a boo-boo vvhen you fell dmvn'?
translal1on. Did you get injured vvhcn you fell down?
STREET TALK -3: THE Bt:ST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS 199
E!l!iJI As just demonstrated. when the sound "boo .. is

repeated, it takes on the mcani ng of "injury:·
However. as a single syllable ("Boo.'''), it becomes an
interjection used to scare someone:
usage example. Stephanie was hiding beLind the door.
As soon as I walked by, she jumped out
and yelled "Boo! ..
bye-bye exp. (commonly pronounced "ba-bye '') good-bye.

usage example. Bye-bye! See you tomorrow.
translation: Good-bye. See you tomorrmv.
CJiill Young children are commonly told to "1nn·e bYe-

bye.·· a phrase applied onh to children. However.
adults do frequently used the phrase "hYe·h\·e .. with
other adults. especially on the telephone.
cheek-to-cheek exp. one person's check pressed up against another

person· s cheek.
usage example: I don't think they're just friends. I saw John and Lisa
dancing cheek-to-cheek all night~
translation. I don't think they're just friends. I saw· John and Lisa
dancing with their checks pressed up against each
other's all night!
choo-choo n. (baby talk) train.

usage example Look at the big choo-choo!
translatton. Look at the big train!
l'l;l;!l;i!lt!ij:\j choo-choo train n.
door-to-door (to go) exp. to solicit each house in ~1 neighbarhood

(in hopes of selling a product).
usage example.· The salesperson went door-to-door trying to sell
brushes.
translat1on. The salesperson went to each house in the neighbor-
hood trying to sell brushes.
200 TO.\'< IS GOING TOE-TO-TOE WITH EVERYONE
~ door-to-door zale!personn. a merchant who goes to

each house m a neighborhood trying to selling
products.
ear-to-ear exp. Crom one ear to the other.

usage exam;;le When J walked in. my mother was smiling from ear-
~c-ear.
trunsieuo·c \\"hen I \valk.cd in. my mother had an enormou~ smiie

on her face.
face-to-face e.rp. in person.

usage exam;;ie !" ve been iooking forward to meeting you faCGHO-
face.
uanslation r ve he en Iooking fonvard to meeting you in person.
fro~-frou np. elaborate.

usC~ge examnie Did _you sec the way Susie decorated her house'? It's
too fi!'OY·frou for rne.
trE;ns!at:on Did you see the way Susie decorated her house? It's
too elaborate for me.
ga-ga cnrer $Omeone or something {to go) exp. to becon1e

infatuated by someone or something.
i,sagc cxan,::Ys The first time 1 saw Rachellc. I \\'Cnt ga-ga over her.
lsn · t she beautiful?
transfat;on The first time I savv Rae helle. l became infatuated with
her. lsn·l she beautiful'.)
~ You may occasionally hear "ga-ga" used in

conjunction \\ ith "goo-goo." "Goo-goo. ga-gu.1 " is
commnnly used by adults as they talk to babies in an
e!'hrt to imitate the sound the:;. make.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN iDIOMS 201
~ This phrase is commonly usee! lw q)mconc: wh'' 1"

tickling someone else.
1'/;l ;l l;i, rn: Roil gocchy-gooc:hy-goo e.rp.
ha-ha exp. used to indicate laughter (usually sarcastically\.

usage example.· "What did you think of my .ioke"?"
'"Ha-ha. Very funn)'···
~ Ha-ha! exp. used to indicate contempt for som~..'onc

else's misfortune.
usage example Ha-ha ~ [ \VOn and you lost!
ti'J.'(nll'na hee-hee exp.
hand-in-hand (tO Wilk) CXfJ. tO \V·alk while holding hands with

someone.
usage example: They must be very good friends. They· re walking
hand-in-hand.
translation They must be very good friends. They're walking and
holding each other's hands.
tl!:!lll to go hand-in-hand exp. to go together.

usage example. Do you think that being rich and being
happy go hand-in- hand ..'
translation Do you think that being rich and being
happy go together?
hand-to-hand combat exp. fighting with one's hands (as opposed to

using "''capons).
usage example The two teams got involved in hand-to-hand combat.
translatrcm The two teams fought each other by· use of their hands.
202 TOM IS ''GOING TOE-TO-TOE" WITH EVERYONE
head-to-head (to go) exp. to fight verbally or physically (like two

rams that battle by thrusting their heads against each other)_
usage exampie: Mark and Paul went head-to-head for an hour over
who should be allowed to go on vacation first
translation: Mark and Paul fought for an hour over who should be
allowed to go on vacation first.
heart-to-heart exp. an honest and open conversation.

usage example: We need to have a heart-to-heart about sex.
translation: We need to have an honest and open conversation
about sex.
""H"IP· h"IP· h.ooray.... exp.a common cheer.

usage example: Let's hear it for our hero! Hip-hip-hooray!
lu-lu (to be a) exp. said of something impressive.

usage example: Ho~' did you get that black eye? What a lu-lu!
translation: How did you get that black eye? How impressive!
muu-muu n. a long cool one-piece dress (originally worn by women in

Hawaii- pronounced "moo-moo").
usage example: I bought this muu-muu in Hawaii. It'll be perfect to
wear when I go to parties this summer.
translation: I bought this cool long one-piece dress in Hawaii. It'll
be perfect to \Vear when I go to parties this summer.
mouth-to-mouth exp. (short for "mouth-to-mouth resuscitalion ") a

resuscitation technique used on someone who has stopped breathing-
the technique consists of pressing the rescuer's mouth against the
victim's mouth and blowing air into his/her lungs.
usage example: I had to give mouth-to-mouth to my little brother
when he fell into the swimming pool and stopped
breathing.
translation: I had to resuscitate my little brother when he fell into

the swimming pool and stopped breathing.
"Naughty, naughty!"" exp. a phrase used primarily by parents when

scolding a disobedient child.
usage example: Naughty, naughty! l told you not to touch that!
neck-and-neck (to be) exp. to be even in a race.

usage example: The two runners are neck-and-neck. I wonder who
will finally be the winner!
translation: The two mnners are even. I wonder who will finally
be the winner!
no-no n. (used by parents when talking to a child) not permitted.

usage example: Eating ice cream in the living room is a no-no!
translauon: Eating ice cream in the living room is not permitted!
lltliiiD!J Adults frequently use this expression among them-

selves as well. For example:
usage example: Being late is a big no-no in this office.
m:Em Other synonyms for "no" would be incorrect in this

expression, such as "nope-nope," "nah-nah," etc.
Additionally, this expression does not work with
"yes." Therefore, "yes-yes," "yep-yep," "uh-huh,
uh-huh, " etc. would all be incorrect usage.
on-and-on (to go) exp. to talk incessantly.

usage example: Lisa goes on-and-on about how she wants to be a big
movie star some day.
translauon: Lisa talks incessantly about how she wants to be a big
movie star some day.
one-by-one exp. one person or thing at a time.

usage example: I want you to fold your shirts carefully one-by-one.
translauon: I want you to fold your shirts carefully one at a time.
20lt TOM IS GOING TOE-TO-TOE WITH EVERYONE
pee-pee {to go) exp. (originally baby talk but also used in jest by
adults) to urinate.
usage example: I have to go pee-pee before we leave.
translation: I have to go urinate before v,.·e leave.
pom-pom n. a ball of wooL feathers. or strips of colored paper used as

decoration and by cheerleaders (also spelled '"pom-pon").
usage example. The cheerleaders were waving their pom-poms as
they cheered the soccer team.
translation: The cheerleaders were waving decorative balls of
colored paper as they cheered the soccer team.
pooh-pooh (to go) n. (baby talk- pronounced "POO-poo" \vith the

emphasis on the first "poo ") to defecate.
usage example I think Tessa just went pooh-pooh in her diapers.
trans/avon: I think Tessa just defecated in her diapers.
mm to pooh-pooh something exp. (pronounced "poo-

POO" with the emphasis on the second "poo") to
reject something.
usage example The boss pooh-poohed my idea of
hiring Steve.
translation.· TI1e boss rejected my idea of hiring Steve.
same old-same old exp. same as usual.

usage example: "How's everything going?'"
"Same old, same old.,.
translation. ''Hov/ s everything going?"
"Same as usual."
SO·SC e.\p. neither very good nor very bad. passable.

usage example. "How did your job interviev.· go?"
"So-so.··
translation. '·How· did your job interview go?"
"Jt was passable."'
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF A..v.ERIC.AN IDIOMS 205
such-and-such cxn.
, not .\ ct determined.
;;saor:: Pxanp'e \\\:: · il all meet tomurni\\ at such-and-such a time.
trar:siDt;c;n · \\"c 'II all meet tornornl\V at a time to he determined later.
ta•ta np. !pronounced .. ta-TA .. with the emphasis on the second "ta .. )
good-bye.
usage e\<!n:;Jie Sec you tomorrow. Ta-ta ~
trar;s!at:on See you tomonow. Good-bye~
tee-tee (to go) np. (baby talkl to urinate.

usage example. Do you h<l\ e to go tee-tee·?
!!i:inslatron Do you have to go urinate'!
tom-tom np. a small drum beaten with the hands.

u~aqe P\C~npic. 1\Iy· parents gave my little brother a set of tom-toms
for his birthday. He plays them all day long!
transia!;on l'vly parents gave my little brother a set of small drums
for his birthday. He plays them all clay long~
tum-tum e.rp. (baby talk) stomach.

usa.sJe example You ate lots of ice cream today. ls your tum-tum full'?
tmns!at;on You ate lots of ice cream today. Is your stomach full?
two-by-two exp. one person next to the other.

usage example. I want you all to fonn a line two-by-two.
transla!ton. I want you all to fom1 a line one person next to the other.
[5'~: (!L u .',!1 side-by-side c.\}J.
yum yum exv used to indicate that som~thing is delicious.

usape sxamn 1c:. ..\Vould you like a piece of chocolate cake'.' ..
"Yum yum' I lo\C chocolat~ cake' ..
:·.nsia;:,;: .. Would you like a piece of chocolate cake'?"
.. That "ounds ·delicious~ I love chocolate cake'"
Lesson Thirteen - PROVERBS
..When it rains, it pours ..
207
Lesson Thirteen - PROVERBS
Dialogue: ln Slang
When it rains, it pours
DIALOGUE
Lots of mail!
Lee: Look at all this mail I got today. When it rains, it pours! Here's a
letter from Patricia.
Ben: I didn't think you were friends anymore.
Lee: l decided to let bygones be bygones. It's about time I got a letter
from her! She hasn't written to me since she left for Paris last
year. Out of sight, out of mind.
Ben: She used to tell me constantly how much she valu'cd our
friendship but she was never there when I needed her. Actions
speak louder than words.
Lee: Once J let her borrow my car for an hour and she used it all clay!
Give her an inch, she'll take a mile. So, what does her
letter say?
Ben: She says she ate snails for the first time! Well, I suppose
when in Rome, do as the Romans. She says that they were
delicious.
Lee: There's no accounting for taste.
Ben: She also says that she fell in love with some guy who is living in
England for a year. She· s upset because he only IATitcs to her once
every two months! Interesting hovv the shoe's on the other foot!
208
Translation or dialogue~ u
~
~"
.·
\~
DIALOGUE ~~
Lots of mail~
Lee: Look at all this mail I got today. When an event occurs, it occurs
with great intensity' lkrc·s a letter from Patricia.
Ben: I didn't think you \verc friend~ anymore.
Lee: I decided to forget what happened in the past. It·-.. about tinlL· I ::.ot <t
letter from her~ She hasn't written to me since ~he left t"or Pari-.. last
year. If someone is not in sight, he/she is forgotten.
Bm: She used to tell rne constantly ho\\ much she valued our
friendship but she was ne,cr th'-'1"<.' ''hen l needed her. Actions are
more meaningful than words.
Lee: Once I let her botTO\V my car for an hour and she: u"ed it ali d~r: ~ If,.
you give her a little of something, she'll try to take a lot more. d
So. \Vhat does her letter sa_v·) '-1
b
Ben: She says she ate snails for the !"ir-..t timL·' Wei!. I .;uppu~c one must
adopt the habits of the local people. She -..a_::. s that they \h'h.:
delicious.
Lee: There's no explanation for people's likes and dislikes.
Ben: She also say" that she fell in lo\ c \\ ith -..urll,. g:u;. \\ h\l i-.. li\ ing in
England for a year. Stw·, up-..et hL'L'<lUSL' h,· on!;\\ rilL'' tn IKr <.ll1i.."L'
even t\\ o rnontlh ~ lntLTl~-.. tin c: lru\\ she's suffering the same thing
Qi c _CZ? she ~akes other people experienc. e'? -"'· (<_ '::-·rr.):, _
~~ ~~ :_~~-~209
Lesson Thirteen· PROVERBS
DIALOGUE al
Lots 'a mail!
Lee: Look 'it all this mail I got t'day. When it rains, it pours! Here's a
lcdder from P'trisha.
Ben: I didn' think you were frenz anymore.
Lee: I decided ta let bygones be bygones. It's about time I godda
lcdder from 'cr! She hasn't written tame since she lef' fer Pmis
last year. Outta side, oudda mind.
Ben: She usc' ta tell me constantly how much -;he valued are fren'ship
but she was never there when I needed 'er. Actions speak louder
th•n words.
Lee: Once I let 'er borrow my car fer an hour an' she used it all day!
Ciive ·er an inch, she·n take a mile. So, wha' does 'er leddcr say?
Ben: She says she ate snails fer the firs' time! Well, I suppose when in
Rome, do as the Romans. She says that they were delicious.
Lee: There·s no accoun·ing fer taste.
Ben: She also says that she fell 'n love with some guy who's living in
Englan' fer a year. She's upset b'causc 'e only writes to 'er once
every two months! Int'rcsting how the shoe·s on thee other foot!
210
Vocabulary
..Actions speak louder than words·· exp. ''Prove what you say
by your actions ...
usage example: You always tell me what a good friend [ am but every
time I need your help, you're always too busy. If I'm
really a good fl·iend of yours, show me. Actions speak
louder than words.
translation: You always tell me what a good friend I am but every
time I need your help, you're always too busy. If I'm
really a good friend of yours, show me. Prove what
you say by your actions .
.. Cive someone an inch, he/she will take a mile .. exp. ··u you
give someone a little of something, he/she will try to take a lot more."
usage example: I let my sister borrow my dress for the evening. Now
she wants to take it with her on vacation for a week!
Ciive her an inch, she'll take a mile.
lranslatron: I let my sister borrow my dress for the evening. No\v
she wants to take it with her on vacation for a week~
If you give her a little of something, she'll try to take
a lot more.
r:Ilim This expression may simply be shortened to: ""Give

someone an inch" since the i:est of the expression is
merely inferred.
""Let bygones be bygones•• exp. ''Let's forget \\'hat happened in the

past (and look toward the future).''
212 'WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS"
usage example. I know you had a big fight with Julie a long time ago.
Maybe it's time to let bygones be bygones and be
friends again.
translatkJn· I know you had a big fight with Julie a long time ago.
Maybe it's time to forget about what happened in the
past and be friends again .
.. Out of sight, out of mind'' exp. ''That which you don't see, you
don't think about."
usage example: I haven't received a letter from her in over four months
and she's my best friend! Out of sight, out of mind.
translation. I haven't received a letter from her in over four months
and she's my best friend! If I'm not in front of her, she
doesn't think of me .
..There·s no accounting for taste .. e.\p. ''There is no explanation

for people's likes and dislikes.
usage example.· Do you believe that Mike bought that hotTible
painting? One thing's for sure. Th~:~·s iiO i\:C:ounting
for taste.
tmnslation: Do you believe that Mike bought that horrible paint-
ing? One thing· s for sure. There is no explanation for
people's likes and dislikes.
""The shoe's on the other foot .. exp. "The situation is reversed"

(said when someone is forced to suffer the same situation that he/she
has caused someone else to experience).
usage example· David's horrible old boss is now David's employee!
Suddenly the shoe is on the other foot.
translation.· David's horrible old boss is now David's employee~
Suddenly the situation is reversed.
Suddenly, the shoe is on the other loot.
''When in Rome, do as the Romans [do]"" exp. ··one must adopt

the habits of the local people.''
usage example: I ate raw fish when I went to Japan. I figured ··when
in Rome, do as the Romans [do]."
translation: I ate raw fish when I \Vent to Japan. I figured v..-hen
you travel, practice the same customs as the natives.
11/;!;l!;i.!nia! This expression may simply be shortened to: "When

in Rome" since the rest of the expression is mereiy
inferred.
"'When it rains, it pours .. exp. ·-~rhen an event occurs, it occurs vvith

great intensity or frequency.'·
usage example: I got invited to ten parties tonight~ When it rains, it
pours!
transiatton.· l got invited to ten parties tonight~ \\lhcn an event
occurs. it occurs with great intensity!
111;1jlu.!n:tw "It never rains, but it pours" exp.

'WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS·
Practice The Vocabulary EB

(A.ns1rers to [,essmz 13, p. 272)
A. Underline the word that best completes the phrase.
1. tvly best friend moved to Los Angeles two years ago and never
sends me any letters. Out of (sight, view, vision), out of mind.
2. I got five job interv·iews in one day. When it (hails, snows, rains),
it pours!
3. When I visited Paris, I drank wine with my lunch and dinner.

When in (Rome, Paris, Italy), do as the (Romans, Parisians,
Italians) [do 1.
4. Several years ago. Todd and I had a big fight and stopped
speaking to each other. We've finally decided to let (bylaws.
bygones, biplanes) be bygones and be fi·iends again.
5. Stop telling her how much you love her. Show her!
(Contractions, Reactions, Actions) speak louder than words.
6. You're finally experiencing \Vhat you made me tolerate for so

many years. So, how does it feel to have the shoe on the other
(toe, foot, head)?
7. Did you sec the ugly dress Barbara was wearing? I guess there's
no accounting for (taste. smell. hearing).
8. I asked Jill to replace me as president during my \'acation. While

I was gone. she changed all the rules! Ci\·e her an inch, she'll
take a (kilometer. foot. mile).
B. Complete the idioms by choosing the appropriate

word from the list below.
bygones Romans
mile shoe
mind taste
pours words
1. If you really want to help us, don't just talk about it. Do something.
Actions speak louder than _ _ _ _ _ _ __
2. l told Keith that he could usc my computer for an hour. Nov.· he v,,-ants
to use it every day! Give him an inch, he'll take a _ _ _ _ _ __
3. When I went to Japan, I used chopsticks. When in Rome. do as

the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ldoj.
4. Every time I asked for your help, you always said you \Vere too busy.
Now you need me to help you. Suddenly the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ son
the other foot!
5. Let's let bygones be _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ and be friends again.
6. When Jim and l are together, we· re best friends. But when he goes
out of town, he never thinks of me. Out of sight. out of _ _ _ _ __
7. I thought I was going to be bored tonight, then eight of my friends

called to invite me to parties~ When it rains. it _ _ _ _ _ _ __
8. How could he wear such an ugly tie'? There's no accounting

for ____________
216 "WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS"
C. CONTEXT EXERCISE
0 1. You got accepted to twelve A. There's no

universities today? accounting for taste.
0 2. Margaret spent a hundred

dollars on that ugly dress'? B. Actions speak louder
than words.
0 3. l know \ve haven't spoken to

each other for two years, but C. Suddenly, the shoe
r d I ike to be friends again. is on the other foot.
D 4. The vice president of the

company was demoted to D. Out of sight, out of
secretary and his secretary is mind.
nmv the vice president~
0 5. When I travel, I always like to E. Let's let bygones be

eat the same food as the bygones.
natives.
F. When it rains, it
D 6. Kim takes advantage of every
pours!
situation.
D 7. Don't just tell me \Vhat a good G. Give her an inch,

worker you are. show me. she'll take a mile.
D 8. When Joe and I worked

together. \Ve \\Trc great H. I believe that when
friends. Now that he found in Rome, do as the
another job. he never calls rne. Romans [do].
E. DICTATION B!!J
(This dictation can be found in Appendix A on page 2 81).
I fyou arc following along with your cassette, you v.•ill now hear a paragraph
to you at first). In addition, the words will be pronounced as _vou would
to write clown \Vhat you heard. The third time the paragraph is read, follmv
A CLOSER LOOK:
More Popular Proverbs
''A friend in need is a friend indeed"" exp. "A friend who is

helpful during times of difficulty is a true friend."
usage example.· Your best friend could really use your help.
Remember. a friend in need is a friend indeed.
tmns!ation: Your best friend could really use your help.
Remember, a friend who is helpful during times of
difficulty is a true friend.
"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing•• exp. "Having only

a little information regarding a certain subject could lead to trouble.''
usage example: Paul is going to try and fix his own car? He only read
one chapter of his auto mechanics book! He's about
to prove that a little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
218 'WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS
translation: Paul is going to try and fix his own car? He only read
one chapter of his auto mechanics book! He's about
to prove that having a little information about some-
thing could lead to trouble .
.. A penny saved is a penny earned .. exp. "It's important to be

frugal."
usage example. If I buy shoes at this store. it will cost less than if I
bought them at the other store. I know I"ll only be
saving a few cents. but a penny saved is a penny
earned.
translation. If I buy shoes at this store. it will cost less than if I
bought them at the other store. I knmv I'll only be
saving a fev,· cents, but it's important to be frugal.
.• A watched pot never boils .. exp. ·'If you wait for something to
happen. it never will."
usage example I know you're \vaiting for Mark's telephone call. but
you can't just sit next to the telephone all clay. You
knO\v what they say. "A watched pot never boils."
Why don't you go do something to keep yourself
busy?
translation. I know you're \vaiting for Mark's telephone call. but
you can't just sit next to the telephone all day. You
know \vhat they say. ''If you wait for something to
happen. it never will." \Vhy don't you go do
something to keep yourself hus_y?
.. Absence makes the heart grow fonder .. exp. "People. places.

and things become more valued the longer they arc absent."
usage exflmn 1e When your boyfriend comes back from his vacation.
he'll he even more in love with you. Remember.
absence makes the heart grow fonder.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS i19
translation. vVhen your boyfriend comes back from his vacation.

he'll be even more in love v.;ith you. Remember.
people. places, and things become more valued the
longer they arc absent.
..All"s fair in love and war .. exp. ''When two people arc fighting to
viin the love of someone else, there arc no rules of fair play.''
usage example Mark wants Laura to fall in love with him instead of
Tim. So. he lied and told Laura that Tim used to be in
prison! I guess all's fair in love and war.
translation. Mark wants Laura to fall in love with him instead of
Tim. So. he lied and told Laura that Tim used to be in
prison! I guess when two people are fighting to \vin the
love of someone else, there arc no rules of fair play .
.. All's well that ends well .. exp. "As long as there is a happy outcome
to a situation. the struggle to achieve it was worthwhi Ic."
usage example Mandy lost her house in the fire, but it looks like she 'II
be able to rebuild an even bigger and better one! All's
well that ends well.
translation. Mandy lost her house in the fire. but it looks like she'll
be able to rebuild an even bigger and better one! As
long as there is a happy outcome to a situation, the
struggle to achieve it was worthwhile.
"Beauty is only skin deep.. exp. ..The true measure of beauty is by

someone· s goodness. not by his or her looks ...
usage example Lana may be beautiful. but she's a terrible person. She
sure docs prove that beauty is only skin deep.
translatiOn Lana may be beautiful. but she· s a terri blc person. She
sure does prove that the true measure of beauty is by
someone· s goodness. not his or her looks.
220 "WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS''
.. Beggars can•t be choosers .. eJ.p. "People who are given something

for free can't he selective."
usage example Peter forgot to bring his lunch \vhen \Ve \\lent on our
hike. so I offered him some of mine. 'vVhen I gave him
my chicken sandwich. he said he wanted my tuna
sandwich instead. 1 told him that beggars can't be
choosers and that he could have the chicken sandwich
or nothing!
translation Peter forgot to bring his lunch when we went on our
hike, so I offered him some of mine. When I gave him
my chicken sandwich. he said he wanted my tuna
sandwich instead. I told him that people who are given
something for free can "the selective and that he could
have the chicken sandwich or nothing!
.. Better late than never .. exp. "It's better to do something late than
not to do it at all."
usage example Although it's late, I wanted to give you this birthday
gift. Better late than never!
translation. Although it's late, I wanted to give you this birthday
gift. It's better to do something late than not to do it
at all!
.. Better safe than sorry.. exp. ''It's better to do something cautiously

or else you may suffer the consequences later."
usage example I knO\v the piano is far from vvhere we're going to be
painting, hut we· d better cover it anyway. Better safe
than sorry.
trans/at;on. I know the piano is far from where \ve're going to be
painting. but we'd better cover it anyviay. lt"s better
to do something cautiously()[ else you may suffer the
consequences later.
.. Birds of a feather flock together .. exp. "People who are similar

attract each other.''
usage example Scott's friends are all strange, but like they say, birds
of a feather flock together.
translation: Scott's friends are all strange, but like they say, people
who are similar attract each other.
l:rr!I:nl This expression may simply be shortened to: birds of

a feather since the rest of the expression is merely
infen-ed .
.. Blood is thicker than water .. exp. "Loyalty should be to the family

first."
usage example: Leon had a choice of moving to another city with his
parents, or staying behind with his friends. Since
blood is thicker than water, he decided to go with his
family.
translation: Leon had a choice of moving to another city with his
parents, or staying behind with his friends. Since
loyalty should be to the family first, he decided to go
with his family .
.. Close, but no cigar .. exp. "Being partially accurate is still

inaccurate."
usage example ''Watch me shoot this target. I bet I hit it on my first try."
"Close, but no cigar. Better luck next time.''
translation.- "Watch me shoot this target. I bet I hit it on my first try:·
''Being partially accurate is still inaccurate. Better
luck next time."
··c r1me
· dOeSn •t pay.. exp. ''\Vhatever the outcome. lt· · S not \VOI1 h the
consequences of committing a crime."
222 WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS"
usage example: Sheila stole a thousand dollars from work and novv
she's going to jail. ll's the third time she's done that
to an employer. When will she learn that crime
doesn't pay?
translation: Sheila stole a thousand dollars from \Vork and now
she's going to jail. It's the third time she's done that
to an employer. When will she learn that it's not worth
the consequences of committing a crime?
""Curiosity killed the cat .. exp. "People who are too inquisitive and
meddlesome can get themselves into trouble."
usage example· "I think that there are some criminals who just moved
into the apartment next door to mine. I'm going to go
investigate."
"I wouldn't do that if I were you. They could be
dangerous! After all, curiosity killed the cat!"
translation. "I think that there are some criminals who just moved
into the apartment next door to mine. I'm going to go
investigate.''
"I wouldn't do that if I were you. They could be
dangerous! After all, people who are too inquisitive
and meddlesome can get themselves into trouble~"
""Don"t count your chickens before they hatch .. exp. "Don't

assume success unti I it actually happens:'
usage example: ''My job interview went so well toda;' that r m going
to quit my current job~··
·'Now, wait! Don't count your chickens before they
hatch~--
translation: ''My job interviev.· went so well today that I'm going
to quit my cmTent job~"
"~ow, vvait! Don't assume success until it actually
happens!"
11/.l;lt;i•Wio'jj Don't count your chickens before they've hatched

exp.
11/;ljll;w•l.'lel!J Don't go counting your chickens before they hatch/

they're hatched np .
.. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth .. exp. "Don't criticize

gifts that you receive."
usaye exampie. '"I \Vantecl a red bicycle for rny birthday. This one is
green~ ..
"Don't look a gift horse in the mouth. You could

have received nothing~"
!rand&ron. "I wanted a red bicycle for my birthday. This one is
green!"
"Don't criticize the gifts that you receive. You could
have received nothing~"
.. Don't put all your eggs in one basket .. exp. "Don't gamble
your possibility of success on one goal since failure could mean losing
everything.''
usage example. ··If I get this job. I can pay oil my debts. Then I' II buy
a car. new clothes. and move to a new apartment~"
"Don't put all your eggs in one basket. What i r you
don't get the job'!
transiauon "If I get this job. I can pay ol'fmy debts. Then I'll buy
a car. new clothes. and move tu a new apartment~"
"Don't garnble your possibility of success on one goal
since failure could mean lo'>ing e\er_:,·thing. \Vhat if
) ou don· t get the job·?''
.. Don't put the cart before the horse .. ex11. .. Don·t do things out
lli 'li'Lkr."
' < 'l'Pu· rc ~oing tll bu) a'' l'dding ring before: ou asJ... Jan
;,1 Jlu;ry yuu-' Don't put the cart before the horse'
224 "WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS
translation. You're going to buy a wedding ring before you ask

Jan to man-y you'? Don't do things out of order!
"Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy,

wealthy, and Wise" exp. "People who go to bed early arc healthier.
wealthier, and wiser than people who go to bed late."
usageexarnple "You're going to bed already'? It's only eight
o'clock!"
''You know \\'hat they say. Early to bed, early to rise
makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.''
translation ''You·re going to bed already? It's only eight
o ·clock!"
·'You know what they say. People who go to bed early
are healthier, wealthier, and wiser than people \vho go
to bed late.''
"Easy come, easy go" e.rp. ··Anything that can be easily acquired.
can be easily taken a\vay.'·
usage example. I v.•on a thousand dollars today playing roulette. Then I
lost it all on a horse race. Oh. \Vcii. Easy come, easy go.
translation. I won a thousand dollars today playing roulette. Then
I lost it all on a horse race. Oh, well. Anything that
can be easily acquired, can be easily taken away.
"Every [gray] cloud has a silver lining" exp. "Bad e\ ents are
always followed by good events."
usage example. Remember hmv upset you \vere last week because you
didn't get the job you wanted'? Now today. you were
offered a job that pays L\vice as much~ Every [gray]
cloud has a silver lining.
transl~ltton. Remember hO\v upset _y·ou were last \Vee k because you
didn't get the job you \vanted'? No\v today. you were
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF ;\MERICAN IDIOMS 225
offered a job that pays twice as much! Bad events arc

always followed by good events.
l'l;!ilr;iwUI Behind every [gray) cloud is a silver lining exp.
''Every dog has its/his day.. exp. "Every person will have his/her
moment of'glory.'"
usage example. I just \NOll a thousand dollars! I guess it's true v.·hcn
they say that every dog has itS/his day!
translation: I just \Von a thousand dollars~ I guess it's true \Vhen
they say that every person will have his/her moment
or glory!
"Familiarity breeds contempt .. exp. "Getting to know someone

very \vcll could be dangerous since you may notice unacceptable
qualities."
usageexample: We were such good friends until \VC started living
together. I guess it's true when they say that
familiarity breeds contempt.
uansla!mn \Ve vvere such good friends until we started living
together. I guess it's true when they say that getting
to kno\v someone very well could be dangerous since
you may notice unacceptable qualities .
.. Finders-keepers, losers-weepers.. np. (used primarily among

children) ··If you find something. :;.·ou·re allowed to keep it e\·en though
the person who lost it may cry.'·
usageexample "Hey. you have my pen~ I dropped it here by
accident~··
"It's mine now. Finders-keepers, losers-weepers~ ..
!.'iJ.'!S:'~Jt:c;n .. Hey. yuu h;t\ e my pen~ I dropped it here b)

<ll'L'ident ,..
··It's minL~ 110\\ lf;-llll find '-l'ilh'lhing. ;-ou"re .dlu\\Cd
\ll h·L•p it_ ..
WHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS
"Haste makes waste .. C.\p. "If you do something ill a hurry. you'll
ruin it (and ymr'll probably have to do it O\er) ...
usage examtJ/e. I know you want to lean:: earl). but take your time
with these calculations. Remember. haste makes
waste.
trans/alton I knovv you want to leave early. but take your time
\Vith these calculations. Remember. if you do the job
in a hurry. you'll make mistakes.
"He who laughs last, laughs longest.. exp. "You did soil1ething
bad to me, but now I'm going to do something even worse to you."
usage example. Steve kept laughing about the trick he play·eJ on me.
But I told hirn that he'd better stop laughing because
he who laughs last, laughs longest.
translation. Steve kept laughing about the trick he played on me.
But I told him that he'd better stop laughing because
I'm going to do something worse to him.
l'f;1jll;id~J:a "He who laughs last, laughs best" e.\]J .
.. Honesty is the best policy.. exv ··You'll always get the best results
if you· re honest.··
usage example. You'd better confess the truth to your mother.
Honesty is the best policy.
translatiOn. You· d better confess the truth to your mother. You· 1l
al\vays get the best results if you're honest.
'"If at first you don't succeed, try, try again .. np . .. Iryou don ·t
succeed in doing something the first time, keep on trying:·
usage example \Vhat do you mean you're ready to give up'? If at first
you don't succeed, try, try again.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF i\lv\ERiCAN IDIOMS 227
tmnsiatmn. \Vhat do you mean you·re ready to give up? If you

don·t succeed in doing sornething the first time. kccp
on trying.
••It takes two to tango .. CXJ7 . .. ,t takes l\\0 people to do certain

activities."
usage example. What do you mean the fight was my fault? It takes
two to tango~
translatton. What do you mean the fight was my fault? It takes two
people to have a fight!
.. LiVe and let liven e.rp. "Live your own life \Vithout telling others
how to live theirs."
usage example: Why do .YOU care how my friends live their Jives. It" s
none of your business. Live and let live.
translation. Why do you care hmv my friends live their lives. !t·s
none or your business. Live your own life without
telling others hovv to Jive theirs .
.. Money is the root of all evil .. np. ··!\toney causes all the
problems in the \Vorld.'.
usage example. A lot of people \Vill do anything for money even if it
hurts others. I think it's true vvhen people say that
money is the root of all evil.
trans!aiion.· A lot of people \Vi 11 do anything for money e\ en if it
hurts others. I think it's true when people sa) that
money causes all of the probkms in lhe \\ orld .
.. Necessity is the mother of invention .. np. --tryntt"rc dc·-;pl'ratL·

enough. you· II find a \vay to accomplish anything:·
usage cxarnpie I couldn·t atTord to take my c~1r to the llhXhanic :-\1.!
rigured out" way lu fix my L·ar for tree. Neceuity is
the mother of invention.
228 WHEN IT RA!NS, IT POURS
! 1:1/iS!iiTi , I couldn't afford to take my car to the mechanic so. I

figured out a \Vay to fiX rny car for free. I r you· re
desperate enough. you"ll find a wa) to accomplish
anything .
.. No news is good news .. e.\f!. "If you haven't received any ne\Vs.
ih'>Ul11C it.~ good nc:'\VS ...
:o.\<oc: I to my doctor the other day for some medical

\VCnt
tests and I haven't heard from him. I shouldn't worry.
After all. no news is good news.
ir;msi~J:On I went to my doctor the other day for some medical
tests and I haven't heard from him. I shouldn't woJTy.
After all, if you haven "t recci ved any ne\vs. assume
it"s good news .
.. Nothing ventured, nothing gained .. e.rp. "If you don ·t attempt

so met bing difficult. you' 11 never benefit from the potential rewards."
usagu exmr;pi,;. I know you· re nervous to ask the boss for a raise, but
remember. nothing ventured, nothing gained.
rran~1at1orr I knmv you're nervous to ask the boss for a raise, but
rcrnember. if you don·t atternpt it, you'll never get
anything .
.. One good turn deserves another .. exp. "A good deed should
be rewarded with another good deed ...
usDye example I really appreciate you helping me rnove yesterday.
Since one good turn deserves another. I'd like to
give you these free aiq)lane tickets to Europe.
trans!a!lon. I real! y appreciate :you helping me move yesterday.
Since one good deed should be rewarded \vith
another, I'd like to give you these free airplane tickets
to Europe .
.. One's bark is worse than one's bite" e\JJ. said or someone who
is threatening but nut dangerous.
STREET TALK •3: THE 8ES1 eo;: ·""-'v\LRI(i\"-; :DIOtv\S
t,sn~;eeA.i'l'r'·'e Our nc\\' hos-, ~clb a lot hut don't WO!T). His bark~:;
worse than his bite.
tra:,~:ar:n:• Our nc\\ boss yc !Is a )ot hw don·: \\.OIT~. t·L- · -.
thrc~ttening but not dangerous .
.. Practice makes perfect .. np. "You can onl: perfect) ours\.: ill" h\
practicing .
. :'Sd£H.: e<an:n ,. \ uu need to play the piano at kast <U i;,lUr e\ '-'r: ,Ll >.
Practice makes perfect.
!'i.•-·;s-':;:.c;r '{ ou need to play the piano at least an hour.:\ cr:- d<t:-.
You can only per!'cct your 'kill.; by pracLiL·ing
"Practice what YOU preach .. e.\p. "Take the sarnc advice )'OU gi\e
others:·
usa;.;e cxern_n 1':' You ahvays tell rne how terrible it is L1r people w liL'.
but today y·ou 1ied to me! \Vhy don· t you p~c.ct~ce
what you preach!
t<i".'>';,r,cn You always tell me hovv terrible it is ror pcopk· w lie·.
bul tmlay you licd to me! \Vhy don· t you take the same
ad\ ice you give other'-:
.. Seeing is believing .. np. ·-rJJ beiicve it when I sec it."

. ::.-<•· 17.-. •.<."·.n~· I didn't belie' c \Ou were an acrobat but seeing is
believing'
,··:;:·,i ·or: l didn't hciic\c.' \Oll \\ere ::n ~icr:lb<lt htt i1C\'- thJ: 1·
-;-.··:n y•>U pcrr~~rm. llx·li~.·\c it~
: \ ' ~ : : 1.. ~ : " .... : .....

~
;·~~ ~
230 WHEN IT RAINS. IT POURS
!rans/a!Jon. 1 like to get to work before an:;.•onc else. The person

who begins his/her \vork the earliest gets the most
accomplished.
l'/;1 :JI;j, (tl '!1 The early bird catches the worm op .
.. The more the merrier .. np. ·The more peopk imol\ed in a

particular activity. the more fun it\\ ill be ...
usage example. Why don "t you join us on our picnic today? The more
the merrier!
/rans/atJcn \Vby don· t you join us on our pi en ic today··) The more
people in,·olvcd. the more fun it ,,·ill be'
.. There are plenty of other fish in the sea .. np. "There arc
rnuny other opportunities in the world ...
usage exanplc He's ahv<.rys so mean to you. Why don't you go find
someone else? There are plenty of other fish in the sea.
transii7tJon He":-, al\~,·ays so mean to you. \Vhy don't you go find
someone else? There are many other oppurtunities fur
you to meet sorneone.
"'There·s more than one way to skin a cat .. e.rv ""TilL'I\? arl·
many \Vays to achic\C one's goal:·· "There arc lot:-. of right \Vays to do
something ...
us •.'~>.:.:f:;n..-:;ni::! If _:.ou can·t resol\c your probkm the first time. tr_:.
another \vay. Remember. there's more than one way
to skin a cat.
''""'''='''';;: lr )llU --·~111·1 1·e~ol\L· yi)ur prohkm the fir't time. Ir)
<UluthL·r \\ ~t\. Reill<:.'l1lher. lherL' <trl' mall\ \\.a\' \( 1
ach il'\L' one·'> ~nal.
"'To kill two birds with one stone .. e\11 .. Tnal·,~otnpli\h t\\ngnal'
in one dL'(.'d ...
ST(lEET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS 231
usage example I have to take rny sister to the aiq)ort by 2:00pm and
pick up a friend at 3:00pm. This will be easy. f"ll he
able to kill two birds with one stone.
uans!attor: I have to take my sister to the airport hy 2:00pm and
pick up a friend at 3:00pm. This will he easy. I'll he
able to accomplish two goals at the same time.
"Variety iS the Spice Of life•• l'Xfl. "'People·<.. di!Tcn:tKc-. make the

\vorld interesting."
usage exa:r.·,nfe· l'VIy new n1ommate and I arc so ditkrL·nt. I hope we
don"t h<1ve any problems living together. I just ha\"C
to remember that variety is the spice of life.
trnnsiat1on. .\1 y new room mate and I arc so di fi"erent. I hope \\·e
don·t ha\e any problems living io~etlwr. I _just have
to remember that people· s di llerences make the world
i ntcrc..,ti ng .
.. we·n cross that bridge when we come to if" np. --wc·ll race
that problem \Vhen it arises.··
usage exarnoie ·-rm so nervous about my singing audition. \.Vhat'll
I do if they ask rnc to sing something I don·l knm\T
'"You'll cross that bridge when you come to it. ..
transiat:on. ·-r m sp nernms about my singing audition. \Vhat"ll
I do if they ask me to sing something I don't knP\Y·!··
"')'ou'll face that problem when it arises:·
l'/.ljlt.j!(n:i1 "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it" e.1p.
··when the cat•s awayg ~!hie Alice wm play .. C.\fl. "'Wht~ll the
authoritie..; arc gone. mi..,chict" begin-..'·
.-\~ ,( H>n :1s \\c.· \·ft the hou"c. nm ,.-hi ldrcn i 1; \ i ted t hci r
rricnd<> c•'-'-·r i·(,r" \\ ild pan~. When the eat's away,
232 \X/1-iEN IT RAINS, !T POURS
'':;r~s'atrc:n .'\" '-.oon as \\"l~ kft the !Jottst'. our children im·itcd their
rncncb ()\ cr t"Pr a\\ i ld part). When the authorities arc
):!One. mi:-,chicr he gin-;.
u~.;.r.r.,.n.,,., .J.ii.-..,.,..,.,•1 !!! ~·•H= &lz,•.H,~'~ '" W!!!V"u ··lt

~t;J~-t'&io-~ '!--;:. ~~!lqr,.,~ ~ ~' '!& l§irt~~E~: ~ME~t ~ l' ~ Iilii l! :··- ~-/J· u
.j •,~·-~.:d ('iH'L 1 ~_h ~ll1lCi:dl"' \XiJi he ft~ 1 _il1d t\1 aci~lL'\ ,,? r.·
"H<l'-' \\ill i l"\LT ~ct l'Ji,1li0. 11 l o::,_'\ it> ~~l :.• !!;;;'.~tit
!'c:r thL· ~untnh.:·r":···
··1 !c\\' \\-iii i C\'t:r _get ;__~nc'u~n 11ltH1C\ tn ~u tn J-Ll\\aii

t'or 1hl' Slii!1Il1Cr".~··
.. If\oll \\:tnt it h:tdi\ CIHlll!;h. \ou·!; ''iid d \\<!\.
i;1\:~·n"tti\-i._'. llil':tn. ttnd _jc~dPU\. CJnc lhin~·, for \Ul'C.

Yo~ ~c:r/t ~Md:;&e a b~-<P.!~4. by ~t~ ~eve,.
: nt.:
• ' 1 '
.... :: -.\ i ··:t -~'-:'. 1t _; i ·i ;~-- ., ; : ~1:1
•• ; , I . ; ; -~. • . : ~ : r' "- ' ! I ~

Lesson fourteen . . SURVIVAL ~DIOMS & PHRASES
-
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Lesson Fourteen - SURVIVAL IDIOMS & PHRASES
Dialogue In Slang
'~Freeze!''
DIALOGUE
Donna is writing a letter to her friend. Luc:y·.
Dear Lucy:
Y<lU won't belie\e what happened yesterday. I was held up~ First I heard
:-.Ollll'one·yL·Il "Freeze···"<) I stopped. Then a man's voice from behind me
said "Shut up ~mci hand over your wallet." I didn't want to make him mad
'-<l ! did n<~ctly \vhat he \>.anted. Then all of a sudden. I heard a cop yelL
··we've got you covered. Drop the weapon." At first. the robber didn't
rL''>pond. Th~..'n the cops ~tpproachcd him and ordered him to lean against his
...:~tr anli --~pread 'em.·· Then they cuffed him. read him his Mirandas. and
took him in. Th'y probably booked him and thrC\\ him in jail. \Vhat a day~
234
Lesson Fourteen- SURVIVAL IDIOMS & PHRASES
DIALOGUE
Donna is 1.vriting a letter to her ti·iencl. Lucy.
Dear Lucy:
You won't believe what happened yesterday. I 1.vas robbed~ First I heard
someone yciJ·'Don't move!"'so l stopped. Then a man's voice from behind
me said "'Stop talking and give me your wallet." I didn·t want to make him
mad so I did exactly what he wanted. Then all of a sudden. I heard a police
officer ye II. --we're aiming our guns at you. Drop the weapon ... At first.
the robber didn·t respond. Then the police officers approached him and
ordered him to lean against his car and ··spread his arms and legs apart."
Then they put handcuffs on him. read him his constitutional rights. and
took him to the police station. They probably registered him as a suspect
and thrn\ him in jail. What a day~
235
Lesson Fourteen· SURVIVAL IDIOMS & PHRASES
''Freeze!''
DIALOGUE E!!l
Donna'z \\Tiding a leclder to 'er friend. Lucy.
Dear Lucy:
You won't b'lieve what happened yesterday. I was held up~ first i hea;\!
someone yell '·Freeze!''so I stopped. Then a man·s voice fr'm l.1hin· n,c
said ''Shud up ·n hand over yer wallet." I didn' wanna make 'im mad ..;o
I did exactly \vhad · e 1.-van · cd. Then all of a sudden. [ heard a cop yel i.
"We've got chew covered. Drop the weapon ... At first. the rnhhc;· dain·t
respond. Then the «:Op$ appwachcd 'im ·n ordcrl'd 'im ta k~iln ~+ctin< ·i,
car 'n '·spread 'em:· Then they cuffed· im. read· im · i" M!:.smdas. ~md %c©k
'!min. The:: proh"ly b~cked 'lrn ·n thl"i.''-' '!min jail. \\.kd ,, ·.'ci:-'
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERiCAN IDIOMS 237
Vocabulary
book someone (to) np. to register someone as a suspect at the police

station.
usage example John was booked on suspicion of murder.
trans/auon John was registered at the police station on suspicion
of murder.
cop 11. police officer.

usage examf)/e. You're driving too fast and there· sa cop behind you~
translal1on You· re driving too fast and there· s a police officer

behind you~
l:[1i1JO:EI This is an abbreviation of the slang term "copper, ..
used only in old gangster movies and in jest. due to
the copper buttons worn by police officers.
(:[1) ,iUUI This is a popular slang term even among police
officers.
cover someone (to) e.rp. 1. to aim a gun at someone. 2. to protect

someone b:y using a gun.
usage exampie (7) Surrender. We've got you covered~
trans-'at.ion Suncnder. \Vc're aiming our guns at you.
'JSD~ie e\Drnik': 2.: ! think the criminals are in that room. r II cover you
as you mon~ 1n.
:·crs~.;r:c.·: i think the criminals arc in that room. I'li protect you
with n!y gun as your \\alk in.
s.i•H:i'll The difference between definitions 1. and 2. depends
on the context.
238 "FREEZE!'
Don't move! I've got you CIJrlered.
cuff someone (to) np. to put handcuffs on someone.

usage example· Cuff 'im.
tmnsiatJOn. Put handcuff~ on him.
l:!ll:i:JI .. 'lm" is a common reduction for "him."
freeze (to) inte1:j. to stop and hold completely still.

usage cxarr1pie.· Freeze or I'll shoot~
t.r<:nsiDt;n,r; Stop and hold compktcly still or I'll shoot~

STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS U9
.. Give "im "iz; Mirandas .. exp. ''Give him his Miranda rights.''
1/[niJOjj "'fz" is a common reduction for "his.''
l'l;l;l!;S![I)IIOtl "Read 'im 'iz Mirandas" c:rp.
11/;!;II;Wr11UUI "Mirandize 'im" exp.
11/;l ;lt;ii!•JIIU!I "Read 'im 'iz rights"
l:[rh JS!I "Miranda rights" originated from a court case \Vhere
a suspect (with the last name ofMiranda) incriminated
himself. Since forcing a suspect to incriminate
him/herself is a violation of constitutional rights, the
judge in this case declared that any suspect must be
read his/her constitutional rights before questioning
can be started. These rights are called the "Miranda
rights" or "Mirandas."
The Miranda rights are as follows:
You have the right to remain silent. lfyou give up the
right to remain silent, an.vthing you say can and n·i!l
be used against you in a court of hnv. You have the
right to .speak >vith an attorney and to hove an attorne.Y
present during questioning. If you so desire and
cannot qff'ord one, an attorney }Vill he appointed for
you without charge b(jore questioninJ<.
• Do you understand each of these rights that I have
explained to you?
• Do you 'rvish to give up your right to remain silent?
• Do you wish to give up your right to speak to an
attorney and have hirn present during questioning?
hand over something (to) exp. to surrender something (to

someone).
usage example Hand over your \vallet ~
translation.· Surrender your wallet~
11/;l;lt;ittn:rw to hand something over exp.

usage example: Hand it over!
translation. Surrender it (to me)!
21t0 "FREEZE!"
hold someone up (to) exp. to rob someone.

usage example: I got held up today in front of my house!
trdns!ation: I got robbed today in front of my house!
r::II!Ill to hold someone up at gunpoint exp. to rob someone
by using a gun.
shut up (to) intuj. to stop talking.

usageexampfe· If you don't shut up, I'll kill you!
translation: If you don't stop talking, r ll kill you!
mliiJI The expression "Shut up/" is considered rather
coarse. The polite form would be ''Please be quiet."
spread them (to) exp. to spread apart one's arms and legs.
usage example: Lie on the ground and spread 'em!
translation. Lie on the ground and spread your arms and legs apart~
mliiJI In this expression, '"em" refers to "'them'' meaning
"the arms and legs.,.
take someone in (to) e.\p. to take someone to the police station for
processing.
usage example: Let's take 'im in.
translatton Let's take him to the police station and process him.
Practice The Vocabulary E!!

(Answers to Lesson 14, p. 2 73)
A. CROSSWORD
book held
covered Mirandas
cuffed shut
freeze spread
hand over took him in
Across Down
3. The officer anested the 7. your wallet. I said give
suspect and . They it to me now!
should arrive at the police
9. Before an officer can anest a
station in a few minutes.
suspect, the officer must read
16. Don't wony. I'll protect him his _ __
you. r ve got you - -
13. I'm taking you to the police
24. Stop~ station to you on
suspicion of murder.
2Y. She talks all the time.
Doesn't she ever _ __ 23. I was up y·esterday and
up? vvas forced to surrender my
purse!
30. ___ ·em! Your arms
and legs aren't far enough 26. The officer told the suspect to
apart~ put his hands behind his back.
Then the officer him.
FREEZE!
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
243
'-
) .l. : ~ .'
f ~:·o~. ~1C;~(;i !J~ L'_"tL!ll:.

r---
____ j D. ·l~~!C!1 1~ v.~is rn\ ~t:r;~ 1-~- ;,(t iu:n up.

: ·· He tonk ~~1; ;ll) nlU1l('\'_
The o!Tit.>.:r ~.trre~tcd lhc \u:--;pcct and ~tPC~{ hlim ~fL

:__a. f guc"" hc-")i be spc:1ding the night inj<til.
=b. I ~uess tl~c officcT iu~r hJn1 ~iccidcnia;;~\.
~ ·. :. The) rnu~l h~1Yc\ gun(' hlh.:k to the ()['fic.:r· -. :iul.\'~-
-L Come mn: \\'c'\c \!.Ut \OU ~oveil'ef:f

___ ''- \\\:·re all aimmg \lUr guns at you.
:_;b. \\·c h~l\"e :.~nice \\'~.trin blanket here for) OL'..
LJ c. \Vc don't h<;\ c ~t!l! guils
.5. fit.tr:'i~ over your llHH:\;y:

_ :.t. !)on·t giYe it. to 1nc:
fib. Gi \ c it to me. no\\ '
_: ~L 1 '"'aici to l-~c:;p ~::t~e:n_~~

:1 b. \>/hy ~tr:..-:' )\H.! ;.;1\\-~<\:·l \() CFJicl·.)
C: c i)on ·~: ~ l\U c·'.-~:~~ . ·:-~:~~ <d king!
I l-:~e orfi::cr (iJ.t!~C. :~~2 ·:..;:_.r-.,p;_~c:·.
: ·a. ~fhat \vay the "'Li.,pcct \\·on r ~"'e ~;.>L.: tc· u:--.:e hi...; :1.rr:·1:--:.
~h. That \Yay Lh;..~ ·-,u~pLct can u~c hi~ ,_:l I~i:- e:...u<cr.
l___: '"". Then the oL·;~. ..-c:· I :__ ~; L:d up h~~ O\' 7-: ·._.:-.:\·C'.
i->. free:te!
~J :1. Kct·n ,-,1,"
FREEZE!
C. Underline the word that best completes the phrase.
1. (Sneeze, Freeze, Please) or I'll shoot!
2. Yesterday Bob was (looked, booked, cooked) for murder. His

family had no idea that he was a killer.
3. Shut (up, down, over)! If you say. one more \vord, I'm going to
shoot you!
4. Lie on the ground and (spread, thread, bread) 'em!
5. The officer (cuffed, puffed, huffed) the suspe..:t. The officer

wanted to make sure that the suspect kept his arms behind his
back.
6. (Hand, Foot, Elbow) over your wallet!
7. I was held (up. down, in) today! All my money was stolen!
8. Don't move. We've got you (smothered. buttered, covered).
9. Before a suspect can be arrested, the officer must read him his
(Pandas, Verandas, Mirandas).
10. You're under arrest. I'm taking you (out. over, in).
E. DICTATION EBJ
by a native speaker at nom1al conversational speed (which may seem fast
A CLOSER LOOK:
Survival Words & Phrases
(That Could Save Your Life!)
Unfortunately, crime is a part of any big city. Being a victim of a crime is

certainly horrifying for anyone. However, as a non-native speaker, you are
at an unquestionable disadvantage. The reason is simple. In order for a
criminal to commit a crime, he must act quickly or risk getting caught. If
you slow him down in any way (such as not understanding him and asking
him to repeat himself), he could get angry and become unpredictable.
For your own safety, your goal is to understand his demands immediatelv
and give him what he wants. Hopefully, this will encourage him to leave
quickly.
Even being stopped by a police officer can be rather intimidating and scary,
especially if you don't understand his/her questions.
Following are some common words and expressions that you may hear used
by criminals and police officers. You may already understand many of these
!146 'FREEZE!'
phrases if yuu were to sec them written. However, vvhen you hear them
spoken. you may not understand them at all. Why? Simple. Native- born
Americans consrJntly use reductions which are abbreviated forms of a
particular word. (The third dialogue page of each chapter has been \Vrittcn
using popular reductions.) For example: ··want to·· becomes ··,nmnu:"
··going to" becomes ··gonna;" etc.
\For a complete list of reductions and contractions, see STR~El' TALK ·1
Ji. 13. Commonly Used Coni ractions.) . .
As you·ve already seen in the previous dialogues. these reductions \Vili

definitely change the way words arc pronounced. making it difficult to
understand them. It is impottant that you learn the follov,ing phrases using
reductions since this is hov,· you \Vill undoubtedly hear them.
I::Iliill The follmving phrases and expression arc divided into t\VO groups:
1) Phrases Used by Criminals; and 2) Phrases Used by Police
Officers. Please note that many phrases can be used by both groups
and \viii therefore appear twice.
In addition, the terms and expressions that were presented in the

vocabulary section will be found here as well. This \vas done in an
effort to keep the most commonly used phrases together for easy
reference.
PHRASES USED BY CRIMINALS

blow someone away (to) e.\jJ. to shoot someone.
usaye exer;;pic One move and I'll blow you away~
uans/:;tGn One move and r II shoot you~
carjack (to) \'. [l) steal a car directly from the owner hy usc or force.
asayc· I just got carjacked ~
'oans.~Jt:On I just got my car stolen by someone canying a
\\ c:tpon ~
~ carjackingn. the act of stealing a car directly from the
owner by usc or force.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST m AMER!CAN :DIOMS 247
false move np. an incorrect maneuver.

usage example. One false move and r 11 ki 11 you.
translation. One incorrect maneuver and 1"11 kill you.
'"Free:z:e! .. inte1:j. .. Don't move! ..

~ This expression is also used by police officers.
"'Gimme your money/wallet/etc... exp. '"Give me your rnoney/

wallet/etc ...
~ "Gimme .. is a common reduction of "'gi\ e me.··
hand over scm~fth!ng {to} np. to surrender something ! to sumeone).

usage exarnp!e: Ham~ over vour wallet!
trans!Dt.,.'Jn: Surrender your wallet!
5'{;1;1u,i•W'JI ~r: :~~;:;~ ;.~mE:~hins over exp.
usage exarnole. Hand your \Vallet over~
tnnsi~?::-·on Surrender your \Nallet!
.. Hit the ~;U~C! .. ext'· ··Get down on the ground! ..

i'/;l;djs;o]JJ ··N~t tb2 g:rOLi~d! .. exp.
ii..i•n4 Thi:-- cxp:·ession may also be used by poiicc officers.
hold someone UIP (&@} np. to rob someone.

usage f:!>:arnpie I got h~icl up in broad daylight'
rr:;.':siat;o;c I got rnbhcd in the micldic of the day~
~ The cxp;\:-;o.;inn "in /m)(id duyiighr'" IS commlm!y

LhCJ \\hen talking about crimes committed in the
n1iddl~ or ~he day.

~ ~© l'!Oici §CT.e@ne up at gunpoint e.\p. to roh someone
by u~in~ a gun.
248 FREEZE I'
Cl!lilUEI This expression was originated since v1ctm1s arc

made to "hold up .. their arms during a robbery to
shmv that they are not can·ying weapons.
t)41[t1:u.'.!1 SEE: stick up exp.
~ SEE: to hold someone up exp.
''1"11 blow your he~cfoH! .. exp. 'Til shoot you in the head!''
usage example. Don't move or I'll blow your head off!
translation Don't move or I' II shoot you in the head!
'"Keep yer hands where I c·n see ·em .. exp.

a:t:l!JDEI "Yer" is a common reduction of "your."
l:t•hiiS:EI "Cn" is a common reduction of '·can:·
ll[•i ,!JtJEI "'Ern" is a common reduction of "them."
l:t•i•Joll This expression may also be used by police officers.
let someone have it {to) exp. to kill someone (either figuratively or

literally. depending on the context).
usage example.· If you don't gimme ycr money right no\:v. I'm gonna
let cha have it~
translation If you don't give me your money right now, I'm going
to kill you!
~ "Let c/w" and "let c!Jt'H' .. arc a common reductions
of ''let you:·
.. Put "em up! .. exp. "'Put them up!"

a. (•i I 'UlE! In this expression, 'em (short for "them .. ) refers to "the
hands."
C:t•i•J€1§ This expression may also be used by police officers.
i'IJ;ll;''\'l:t~ "Stick 'em up!" np.
~ stick up e.rp.
'"Shut up! .. interj. "Stop talking: ..

usag:·~ exarn.Die. Shut up or I'll shoot'
STREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS i49
translation. Stop talking or I'll shoot!

l:lliilll This expression may also be used by police officers.
••stay down! .. exp. "Stay on the ground~"
stick-up exp. robbery.

usage example Did you hear about the stick up at the bank today?
translatkJn. Did you hear about the robbery at the bank today?
I:IliiJI This expression was originated since victims are
made to "stick up" their arms during a robbery to
show· that they are not carrying weapons.
waste someone (to) exp. to kill someone.

usage example. If you don't hand over your money right now, I'm
gonna waste you!
translation. If you don't surrender your money right no\v, l'm
going to kill you!
tlliiJI "Gonna" is a common reduction for "going to."
PHRASES USED BY POLICE OFFICERS

broad daylight (in) exp. a common expression used when referring
to a crime committed in the middle of the day.
usage example The bank was robbed in broad daylight.
trans/avon: The bank was robbed in the middle of the day.
cuff someone (to) exp. to put handcuffs on someone.

usage example.· Cuff 'im ~
tmnslation Put handcuffs on him!
[]jj]l ·· 'fm .. is a common reduction for "him."
250 FREEZE I'
D.U.i. exp. a citation for Driving Unde· the Influence (of alcohol!.
usage exarno!e· r m issuing you a D.U.R.
trJnsiat-on. rm issuing you a citation for driving il.!lmlcr the
influence of alcohol.
l'f;l;ll.uitl:S! D.W.I. np. a citation Cor driYing While Rntoxicated .
.. Fre~ze!"" intcrj. ''Don't mo\e~··

~ This expression may abc be u-.;ed hy criminals.
frisk someone U@) cxv to search somconc·s clothing ror hidden or

illegal possessions.
usage ecvnp!P. The police officer t~i.sktEdi th2 !lWn for drugs.
trans!auon. The police ntTicer -.;can.:h::c'1 he man i'or hidden drugs.
back~-·
~_..1.;,1~ki~ "FJ '!!In··· j-.~ Lt con1n1nn !\~ducri()n l~cr "behind·~. In the

exarnplc a~c~\·c. the nall \'C-hern s:1cakt-r \'. ·ill either :'(ty
"h'f1in' rf'jcr" or "i1'iiind\'cr" at hi:-..ihcrdiscretion.
preceded by the !cttcr "D ... Fur e\<::t11!pk: I rlzin/.: Hill

your keys );chin· d"ie~ {('f bz~~~d yer) car.
r_]roJJfJCd
~ ···_r·ci> :· .. is a l:oaunon reduction for "y.-:~lr·· ~\\·hen
p:\_-=:ccdcd L"··y the leth:r ·~T_·· f~._)r C\~t~np!L·: f)ul ~~ch:er
,.,.,.('(!t:T i!! the cioscr.
D)~~~ .. :<cr ·· !~ <.! l:onlPlt~n reduction fnr ··\·our·· "hen
y;:\~ccded b) ~1ny lc~tc.~r. Fc1r e\tlrnp!c: \\ 'lzcrc 's yer
\istcr _·; e i...,- ?hat ~"er tor f~her: H·otc-fl.')
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERiCAN IDIOMS 251
It is important to note that "_rcr" and "y ·,. .. can always

he used as 3. reduction for ·-your" or "you're ...
However. \\hen preceded by the letter "D'' or "T" (as
previously demonstrated l. the speaker has the choice
or an additional reduction .
.. Hit the dirt! .. np. "Get clown on the ground~"
11/;l;Jt;p:n.·Sl "Hit the ground!" cxp.
l:ll:i:i]l This expres:,ion may also be used by criminals .
.. Keep yer hands where I c·n see ·em .. exp.

l:(tlaJO! "Ycr" is a common reduction of "your."
a:t•l(iSJl "Cn" is a common reduction of·'can:·
l:f,idtON .. 'Ern .. is a common reduction of ·'them ...
W,i,$013 This expression may also be used by criminals.
··l~!l'll'U'ne $(le yer hands'o np. "Let me sec your hands."

;:ft) 1!!tOED ·· Lcn1mc .. is a common reduction ror "let me ...
8,[,j,:nJm "Yer'' is a common reduction for "your."
""Let's; taklft! 'im h~ "ii! bno!< "im .. cxe. "Let's take him into the police
station and register him ...
~ to book 5cmeone c.rp. to register sol!1L'0!1\.' as a
suspect by putting his/her name into a logbook at the
police station .
.. On your knees! .. cXJl. "Get on your knees~ ..
.. Put ·em u~! .. np. "Put them up' ..

I :;.l doll In this ex pression ... 'em .. (short for "them··) rc fer-; I()
"your hands ...
Ll!iii[€111 This expression may ~dso he used by criminals.
i't;\;lf.sd!). f!l "Stick 'em :J~l" c.\f!.
252 "FREEZE!'
.. Shut up! .. inter_j. ·'Stop talking!"

usage example_- Shut up or I'll shoot!
translation: Stop talking or I'll shoot!
mliiD This expression may also be used by criminals .
.. Spread "em! .. exp. .''Spread your arms and legs apart!''

mliiD In thi-s expression, '"em" refers to "them'' meaning
"the arms and legs.,.
""Step oudda the vehicle"" exp. "Get out of the car."

rn!lm "Outta" (pronounced "oudda") is a common
reduction of "out of."
suspect n. one who is under suspicion of having committed a crime.

usage example: You are our prime suspect.
translation: You are the person that we most suspect of having
committed the crime .
.. We"ve got you covered"" exp. "We're aiming our guns at you."
usage example: Surrender. we·ve got you covered!
translation: Surrender. We're aiming our guns at you.
rn:um to cover someone exp. 1. to aim a gun at someone •
2. to protect someone by using a gun.
usage example (1): Surrender. We've got you covered!
translation: Surrender. We're aiming our guns
at you!
usage example {2): I think the criminals arc in that
room. I'll cover you as you go in.
translation: I think the criminals are in that
room.Tll protect you with my gun
as you go in.
I:IliiJI The difference between definitions 1. and 2. depends
on the context.
REVIEW EXAM
FOR LESSONS 1 1-1 It
(Answers to Re\'iew, p. 274)
A. Underline the appropriate words that best complete

the phrase.
I. I feel great. I'm in (tip-top, pitter-patter, mish-mash) shape.
2. I don't trust him. I don't think he's on the (vim-and-vigor,

out-and-out, up-and-up).
3. V./e haven't spoken in two years but today V·ie decided to let
(through-and-through. bygones be bygones, R-and-R).
4. She actually likes that painting? One thing's for sure. There's no
accounting for (smell, touch, taste).
S. Look at all these letters I received today! When it rains. it

(rains. pours. snows).
6. l got held (down. in. up) yesterday. The robber took all my money!
7. Officer. here's your murder suspect. (Book, Magazine.

Newspaper l · i m ~
S. I'n1 exhausted. I think I need some (M-and-M. A-and-A. R-and-R).
253
254 REV!E\X/ OF LESSONS 11 -1 4
B. CROSSWORD
Step!: Using your answers, fill in the crossword puzzle
on page 255.
eye mind toe-to-toe

freeze pours up-and-up
-·hand it over shut up words
1cnack span
mile top
Across
16. I bought you a present \vtlile I was on vacation. It's just a little
knick~ ______ l thought you'd like.
19. Don't tell me how much you like me. Shovv me. Actions speak
louder than __________
24. Give it to me. I said to _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
33. I've been cleaning my house all day. It"s finally spic-
and-
37. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ or I'll shoot!
45. Bonnie always takes advantage of people. Give her an inch.

she "I! take a
STREET TALK ·l: THE BEST OF A:v\ERICAN IDIOt,AS 255
3. Ever "incc :\li~.:klk' moved away. she ne\Cr \\rites to me. Out of
•
-.ight. nut df _________
7. Don·t tru"t him. Hc·s not on the
15. l"m in tip- _____________ condition. I"ve never fell better~
18. Steve ha" been going ______ _ ___ with cveryone in

the office today. l"\·c ne\er seen him so disagreeable~
20. Helen talks so much~ I \Vish shc"djusl
22. Look at all these gifts I receivcd! \Vhcn it rains. it __________
JS. Ed and I don ·t sec eye-to- on most is-,ues.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
C. TRUE or FALSE
1. If you're in tip-top shape, you're in bad health.

0 True 0 False
2. If your house is spic-and-span, it's very dirty.

DTrue 0 False
3. When someone is on the up-and-up, he/she is trustworthy.

OTrue OFalse
4. (f you see eye-to-eye with your friend, you are in agreement.

0 True OFalsc
5. When someone tells you to freeze, you shouldn't move.

0 True 0 False
6. When you hand over something, you are refusing to let it go.
0 True 0 False
7. If a police officer tells you to spread 'em, you are being told to
stop talking.
0 True 0 False
8. The expression out of sight, out of mind means "fantastic."

0 True OFalse
9. When a situation is reversed, the shoe's on the other foot.

0 True 0 False
l 0. If you let bygones be bygones. you are choosing to forget the

negative events that happened in the past.
0 True 0 False
STREET TALK ·3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS !57
D. CONTEXT EXERCISE
01. Stephanie always tells me A. I think I hear the pitter·

that if I ever need her patter of little feet.
help, she'll be there but
she never is!
B. I guess there's no
accounting for taste.
0 2. How can Tracy wear that
ugly dress?
c. I think this is going to be a
0 3. When I visited Japan, I serious tete-a-tete.
was asked to take off my
shoes before I entered the
D. When in Rome, do as the
house.
Romans.
04. Catch that man!

E. It's happening more and
0 s. Doesn't she ever stop more.
talking?
F. I have a real mish-mash of
06. Every day, people are different tastes.
moving out of the city.
07. The boss wants to talk G. I wish mine could be this

spic-and-span.
with Joe about his work.
0 s. I like several types of H. He just held me up!

music: classical, rock and
roll, hard rock, and punk.
I. I wish she'd just shut up.
0 9. Do you have children?
J. I finally told her that
010. Is your house always this actions speak louder than
clean? words.
ANS
LESS
LESSON ONE - I'm sure they'll "give
you a fair shake"
Practice the Vecabulary

/-\. I. b 5. c
2. c 6. a
3. a 7. b
4. b 8. c
B. 1. H 5. F
')
E 6. B
3. G 7. A
4. c iS. D
C. CROSSWORD
258
ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1. 1 4 i59
D. l. get a hold or yourself 5. talk me into

'I go off the deep end 6. that docs it
" lall] out of proportion
_). 7. put through a \vringer
4. fair sh<~ke 8. prayer
LESSON TWO - "It's as plain as the nose on your face"

Practice the Vocabulary
A 1. incorrect 5. incorrect
2. incorrect 6. correct
3. COITCCt 7. incorrect
4. correct 8. incom~ct
B. 1. a flash in the pan 6. as plain as the nose on your face

2. going together 7. to tie the knot
3. to pop the question R. you're pulling my leg
4. love at first sight 9. hit the nail on the head
5. robbing the cradle 10. to \valk arm in arm
c. l. head 5. leg
2. robbing 6. pan
3. nose 7. first
4. pop 8. tic
D. 1. b 5. a
'I c 6. b
" a
_). 7. c
4. a 8. b
260 ANS\XIERS TO LESSONS ' -1 4
LESSON THREE - I think John's "getting cold feet"

Practice the VocabMI~n"v-
A. L b 6. a
')
c ,.,
I. c
,
_)- a 8. b
4. b 9. a
5. c 10. "' '.\
B. I. come clean 5. cold feet

2. on second thought 6. head on his shoulders
3. if worse comes to worst 7. off the hook
4. to tly off the handle: 8. break the news
face the music 9. to fork over
c. I. on second thought 5. face rhe music

')
came clean 6. let you off the hook
3. if worse comes to worst 7. break the nnvs
4. 1· ve got cold feet 8. to fork over
D. l. \\iOfSt 6. handle
')
break 7. fork
3. feet 8. shoulders
4. clean 9. hook
5. !11USIC 10. thought
H A R K 0 W(M u s c)N A B
T~ B G s u B B L T B T u B R
H u ( 0 R c E T E
0 c 0 D c L B D A
u K E D E R s K
c; L 0 0 B A N F F
~
H A N D c ~ K u
T L c 0 v I! R H B H K E E
F P (w 0 R s T) T L E ~ u r
E R p J p u s H E R J L p.
'.l:J
ANSWERS TO L.:O:SSOt--6 ' -· ~
LESSON FOU~ - ·'Bite yow· toflgue!''
A. CROSSWOR:lj:
B. I a 5. "
"
2. c 6. c
3. b 7. a
4. ..
,
~ 8. .,
u
c. 1 the time of mv life 5 C!h..i of' i11\" :-ope

')
hitch 6. hJti>.: ~;~ !h~i\..'
3. sleep a wink - I3 iL~' \ ' ; :. I~ •
4. like a Jog
D. !. B ~-~. ~·}\
D - E
_,.'., G ~.
-+. c C).
·'
5 F ; \l. H
262 ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1-1 4
LESSON FIVE - My house guest is "eating me

out of house and home!"

A ]_ correct 5_ incorrect
2_ incorrect 6_ correct
3_ incorrect 7_ correct
4_ COlTeCt 8. correct
B. I. ear 5. home
2. beating 6. home
3. head 7. posted
4_ straw 8. gets
C. 1. a 6_ b
2. c 7_ a
3_ a 8. b
4. b 9. a
5. c 1()_ c
D_ L a s_ a
2. a 6. a
3. a 7. b
4_ b 8. a
ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1-1 4 263
REVIEW EXAM FOR LESSONS 1-5

A. 1. life 6. leg
2. head 7. pan
3. nose 8. arm
4. break 9. cold
5. worst 10. blowing
B. CROSSWORD
c. I. False 6. True
2. True 7. False
3. False 8. False
4. False 9. False
5. True 10. True
D. 1. I 6. E
2. A 7. B
3. H 8. G
4. D 9. F
5. c 10. J
ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1-1 4
A. 1. incorrect 5. incorrect
7 incorrect 6. correct
" COlTeCt
_1. 7. correct
..1 correct 8. incorrect
B. l. a bad hair dav 6. fishing for compliments

2. to go to tO\.\-'l1 1. making cracks about him/her
3. behind n1y hack 8. no-host
J. all dolled up 9. buying into it
5. getting on your nerves 10. getting on your case
(~
'-.._,, l. fishing 6. buy
! i.C)\\:n i. day
3. nen·cs 8. case
4. back 9. no
). up l 0. cracks
D. 1. b 5. a
7 c 6. c
-~ "" 7. b
'-'-' h 8. a
LESSON SEVEN - Jodi is '~getting the hang o.f' skiing

A. CROSSWORD
B. I. a 5. c
I b 6. b
3. c 7. a
-+. a 8. b
c. 1. get my second wind 5. get up enough nerve

")
getting your feet wet 6. bite the dust
,
~1. get the hang or 7. to have a brush with death
-+. hold your own 8. easy does it
D. l. .T 6. I
")
,
c 7. E
B
.) 0 8. A
4. D 9. F
5. H JO. G
LESSON EIGHT - Paul's eyes are "bigger than his stomach"

A. L tooth 5. pull
2. eye 6. world
3. weakness 7. thin
4. stomach 8. heads
B. L tooth 5. strings
2. eyes 6. tails
3. air 7. stick
4. weakness 8. eye
c. L H 5. D
2. c 6. E
3. G 7. A
4. F 8. B
D. l. weakness
2. pull
'">
.) . world
4. pad
5. stomach I()
~t
6. heads ' lJ
.., A r;
/. tooth . 1\. ~
\; !li ?
8. stick \r ~
() t 1'
9. catch ::,
0
10. thin
'
\;
'y
li
)
f'
=' ,,
t
1 ('~ b r
f)
~
(! !( f)
,(
f)
.~ 1~·
(; 0 (! f( 6
;, s 6
f { 0
LESSON NINE - "I'm not going to take this lying down"

A. CROSSWORD
B. I_ h 5. a
2. a 6. c
3. c 7_ c
4_ b g_ a
c_ '- take this lying dovvn s_ come to think or it

l got another think coming 6_ out of the question
3. let him have it 7_ beating my head
4_ in the bud 8. in your shoes
D. )_ H 5. G
2. A 6_ F
3. D 7. E
4. c 8. B
!68 ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1-1 4
LESSON TEN - Sally is "showing her true colors"

A. l. COITCCt 5. correct
2. COITCCt 6. inconect
"
_1. inconcct 7. correct
4. inconect 8. incorrect
B. l. gtves 5. colors
2. short 6. off
3. level 7. right
4. up 8. square
c. l. a 5. c
2. b 6. c
3. a 7. b
4. c 8. a
D. l. a 5. a
I h 6. b
3. a 7. a
4. b 8. a
REVIEW EXAM FOR LESSONS 6-10

A. 1. town 6. stick
2. hang 7. shoes
3. crack 8. head
4. \vind 9. one
5. strings 10. colors
B. CROSSWORD
c. L False 6. False
2. True 7. False
"' False
-~- R. True
4. False 9. False
5. True I 0. True
D. 1. c 6. J
2. E 7. B
3. I R. H
4 A 9. F
5. D 10. c
270 ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1 -14
LESSON ELEVEN - Jeff finds an interesting "knick-knack"

A I. c 5. c
2. b 6. c
3. a 7. a
4. c
B. FILL-IN BLOCKS
c L span 5. crosses
2. patter 6. top
3. knacks 7. tock
4_ mash 8. vigor
LESSON TWELVE - Tom is "going toe-to-toe with everyone"

A. I. con·ect 5. incorrect
2. incorrect 6. correct
3. correct 7. incorrect
4. correct S. incorrect
B. I. more and more 5. over-and-over

2. through-and-through 6. R-and-R
3. up-and-up 7. tete-a-tete
4. so-and-so 8. to go toe-to-toe
c. I. eye-to-eye 6. out-and-out
2. over-and-over 7. through-and-through
3. more and more 8. up-and-up
4. tete-a-tete 9. so-and-so
5. R-and-R 10. toe-to-toe
D. I. a 5. a
b. b 6. a
3. c 7. h
4. b 8. a
LESSON THIRTEEN - "When it rains, it pours"

A. ]_ sight 5. Actions
2. rams 6_ foot
3. Rome; Romans 7_ taste
4. bygones 8. mile
B. ]_ \Vords 5. hygoncs
2. mile 6. mind
3. Romans 7. pours
4_ shoe 8_ taste
c. ]_ F 5. H
2. A 6. G
3_ E 7_ B
4_ c 8_ D
ANSWERS TO LESSONS 1-14 273
LESSON FOURTEEN - "Freeze!"

A. CROSSWORD
B. I. c 5. b
2. c 6. c
3. a 7. a
4. a 8. c
C. 1. Freeze 6. Hanel
2. booked 7. up
3. up 8. covered
4. spread 9. l'v1iranclas
5. cuffed 10. in
REVIEW EXAM FOR LESSONS 11·14

A. I. tip-top 5. pours
2. up-and-up 6. up
3. bygones be bygones 7. Book
4. taste 8. R-and-R
B. CROSSWORD
c. 1. False 6. False
2. False 7. False
" True
.). 8. False
4. True 9. True
5. True 10. True
D. I. J 6. E
2. B 7. c
3. D R. F
4. H 9. A
5. 10. CJ
APPENDIX
-Dictation- E!!
Lesson 1
I'm sure they'll give you a fair shake
[ C sing reductions. as heard on the audiotape]

T'day I talked Debbie inta auditioning fer the school musical. She
agreed although she knows she can' even carry a tune vvhcn she gets
nervous. At first, Debbie broke oudd'n a cold sweat but then she
tin' ly godda hol'duv 'erself. Ev'rthing \vas tine until she smv Nancy
walk in. Nancy's the bcs' singer in the school. Debbie fin' lly decided
ta leave 'cause she kne\\' she wouldn' have a prayer if Nancy
auditioned.
[As you would see it written]

Today I talked Debbie into auditioning for the school musical. She
agreed although she knows she can't even carry a tune when she gets
nervous. At first, Debbie broke out in a cold sweat but then she finally
got a hold of herself. Everything was fine until she saw Nancy walk
in. Nancy's the best singer in the school. Debbie finally decided to
leave 'cause she knew she vvouldn't have a prayer if Nancy
auditioned.
275
276 APPENDIX - DICTATIONS
Lesson 2
It's as plain as the nose on your face
[Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape I

Steve 'n I saw Joe walking arm 'n arm with a young woman t'day. I
told'Steve thad I thought they were going tagether. That's when he
said I w'z pulling 'is leg b'cause she's it least twen'y years younger
than Joe. Talk about robbing the cradle! I wonder if they' II akshuly
tie the knot?
[As you would see it written 1

Steve and I saw Joe walking arm in arm with a young woman today.
I told Steve that I thought they were going together. That's when he
said I was pulling his leg because she's at least twenty years younger
than Joe. Talk about robbing the cradle! I wonder if they'll actually
tie the knot?
Lesson 3
I think John's getting coldfeet
[Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape]

Steve wrecked 'is father's car an' doesn' know how da break the news
to 'im. His father'll pro'bly fly off the handle 'cause 'e had ta fork
over a lodda money for it. At first, Steve got cold feet, but 'e fin 'lly
decided ta face the music.

Steve wrecked his father's car and doesn't know how to break the
news to him. His father will probably fly off the handle 'cause he had
to fork over a lot of money for it. At first, Steve got cold feet, but he
finally decided to face the music.
Lesson 4
Bite your tongue!

Janet's at the enduv 'er rope b'cause 'ertriplets do nothing b't scream
at the top 'a their lungs all night. She doesn' sleep a wink although
'er husban' manages ta sleep like a log. She just hopes she c'n hang
in there until they're grov.rn up!

Janet's at the end of her rope because her triplets do nothing but
scream at the top of their lungs all night. She doesn't sleep a wink
although her husband manages to sleep like a log. She just hopes she
can hang in there until they're grown up!
Lesson 5
My house guest is eating me out of house and home
!Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape!

Linda's staying \vith Tessa fer a week. The problem is that she· s
eading Tessa oud of house 'n home. Tessa's tried talking to 'er but
id all goes in one ear 'n out the other. What really gets Tessa is that
Linda keeps walking aroun' the house 'n the raw. I think Tessa's
fin'lly gonna lay down the law t'night.

Linda's staying with Tessa for a week. The problem is that she's
eating Tessa out of house and home. Tessa's tried talking to her but
it all goes in one ear and out the other. What really gets Tessa is
that Linda keeps walking around the house in the raw. I think Tessa's
finally going to lay down the law tonight.
278 APPENDIX . DICTATIONS
Lesson 6
Barbara's having a bad hair day
[Using reductions. as heard on the audiotape!

Barb'ra's having a bad hair day. Even gedding all dolled up isn't
gonna help her. Every time I sec 'er, she gets on my case 'n makes
cracks about my clothes. She sher does ged on my nerves.
[As you would see it written I

Barbara's having a bad hair day. Even getting all dolled up isn't
gonna help her. Every time I see her, she gets on my case and makes
cracks about my clothes. She sure does get on my nerves.
Jodi's getting the hang of skiing

Jodi's scared she's gonna bite the dust when she goes skiing
t'morrow. She's never gone b'fore but she's anxious ta ged ·er feet
wet. I told 'er she'd get the hang of id'n five minutes, bud easy does
it going down the hills. I had a brush with death the firs' time I went
skiing.
[As you would see it written!

Jodi's scared she's going to bite the dust when she goes skiing
tomorrow. She's never gone before but she's anxious to get her feet
wet. I told her she'd get the hang of it in five minutes, but easy does
it going down the hills. I had a brush with death the first time I went
skiing.
Lesson 8
Paul's eyes are bigger than his stomach

Paul had ta pull s'm strings ta get reservations at 'is fav'rite French
rest' rant. He 'as a weakness fer French food. He says the food is oud
'a this world, especially the desserts. Paul's always had a sweet tooth.
Usually he orders too much food b' cause 'is eyes 'r bigger th'n 'is
stomach.
I As you would see it written]

Paul had to pull some strings to get reservations at his favorite French
restaurant. He has a weakness for French food. He says the food is out
of this world, especially the desserts. Paul's always had a sweet
tooth. Usually he orders too much food because his eyes are bigger
th'n his stomach.
Lesson 9
I'm not going to take this lying down
[Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape I

Dave's brother borrowed 'is car again withoud asking. Dave usually
takes id in stride, but this time 'e's not gonna take it lying down. He's
fin'lly gonna led 'im have it. He really shud'a nipped id in the bud
long ago but talking ta Dave's brother is like beading yer head
against a wall.

Dave's brother borrowed his car again without asking. Dave usually
takes it in stride, but this time he's not going to take it lying down.
He's finally going to let him have it. He really should've nipped it
in the bud long ago but talking to Dave's brother is like beating your
head against a wall.
uo APPENDIX - DICTATIONS
Lesson 10
Sally is showing her true colors

T'day, Sally showed 'er true colors 'n wen' off on 'er teacher, Mr.
Peders. I've never seen anyone get so worked up b'fore. Ta make a
long story short, Mr. Peders failed 'er b' cuz 'e cod 'er cheading. It's
no laughing madder. Now she'll have ta take the whole course over
again. I can't b'lieve she's gonna have ta start fr'm square one.

Today, Sally showed her true colors and went off on her teacher, Mr.
Peters_ I've never seen anyone get so worked up before. To make a
long story short, Mr. Peters failed her because he caught her cheating.
It's no laughing matter. Now she'll have to take the whole course over
again. I can't believe she's going to have to start from square one.
Lesson 11
Jeff finds an interesting knick-knack
[Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape!

Jeff found 'n int'resting knick-knack in a box of bric-a-brac Anne's
mother's been saving. He w'z saprised ta fin' such a mish-mash of
junk 'n 'er house b'cuz Anne's mother keeps 'er house spic-'n- span.

Jeff found an interesting knick-knack in a box of bric-a-brac Anne's
mother's been saving. He was surprised to find such a mish-mash of
junk in her house because Anne's mother keeps her house spic-'n- span.
Lesson 12
Tom is going toe-to-toe with everyone

Moren' more, people 'r having trouble seeing eye da eye with Tom.
l always thod 'e w'z a great guy through-'n-through but lately he's
been a real so-'n-so. People 'r even starding ta wonder if' c · s on the
up-'n-up.
I As you would see it written]

More and more, people arc having trouble seeing eye-to-eye with
Tom. I always thought he was a great guy through-and-through but
lately he's been a real so-and-so. People are even starting to wonder
if he's on the up-and-up.
Lesson 13
[Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape!

I decided ta let bygones be bygones 'n be frien's again with Patricia.
The problem was that Patricia moved ta Paris, and stopped
communicading with me. Oudda side, oudda mind. Patricia used ta
tell me constantly how much she valued 'R +frien'ship but she never
really showed me. I told 'cr thad actions speak louder th'n words.

I decided to let bygones be bygones and be friends again with
Patricia. The problem was that Patricia moved to Paris, and stopped
communicating with me. Out of sight, out of mind. Patricia used to
tell me constantly how much she valued our friendship but she never
really· showed me. I told her that actions speak louder than words.
APPENDIX- DICTATIONS
Lesson 14
Freeze!
!Using reductions, as heard on the audiotape]

Yesterday, I wuz held up! First I heard someone yell "Freeze!" so I
stopt. Then a man's voice fr'm b'hin' me said ''Shud up 'n hand over
yer wallet." Jus' then, the police arrived. They cuft 'im 'n took 'im
in. Whad ·n adventure!

Yesterday, I was held up! First I heard someone yell "Freeze!" so 1
stopped. Then a man's voice from behind me said "Shut up and hand
over your wallet.'' Just then, the police arrived. They cuHed him and
took him in. What an adventure!
Glossary
be saving a few cents. but a penny

A saved is a penny earned.
transla_tion· If I buy shoes at this store.
it will cost more than if I bought them
"A friend in need is a friend indeed"
at the other store. I know I'll only be
exp. "A friend who is helpful during
saving a few cents. but it's important to
times of difficulty is a tme friend."'
be frugal.
usage example~ Your hest friend could
really use your help. Remember. a
friend in need is a friend indeed. "A watched pot never boils" exp. "l f you
translation: Your best friend could 'Nait for something to happen, it never
really use your help. Remember. a will."
friend who is helpful during times of usage example: I know you're waiting
difficulty is a true friend. for Mark's telephone call. but you can't
just sit next to the telephone all day.
You know what they say. "A watched
"A little knowledge is a dangerous pot never boils." Why don't you go do
thing'' exp. '"Having only a little something to keep yourself busy·l
information regarding a cenain subject
lransj_ation: I kno\v you're waiting for
could lead to trouble."
Mark's telephone call. but you can't
usage example: Paul is going to try just sit next to the telephone all day.
and fix his own car') He only read one You know \Vhat they say. "If you wait
chapter of his auto mechanics book' for something to happen. it never will."
He's about to prove that a little \Vhy don't you go do something to
knowledge is a dangerous thing. keep yourself busy')
translation: Paul is going to try and fix
his own ca(l He only read one chapter
"Absence makes the heart grow fonder"
of his auto mechanics book' He's about
exp. "People. places. and things become
to prove that having a little information
more valued the longer they arc absent."
about something could lead to trouble.
usage example: \Vhen your boyfriend
comes back from his vacation. he'll be
"A penny saved is a penny earned" e.1p. even more in love v...-ith you. Remember.
'"It's important to be fmgal." absence makes the heart grow
iiSage example. If I buy shoes at this fonder.
store. it will cost more than if I bought lmnslatmn: \Vhen your boyfriend
them at the other store. I know l' II only comes back from his vacation. he'll be
283
GLOSSARY
even more in love with you. Remember. usage example Mandy lost her house
people. places. and things become more in the fire. blll it looks like she'll be
valued the longer they are absent. able to rebuild an even bigger and better
one! All's well that ends well.
"Actions speak louder than words" o.p. translatiOn: Mandy lost her house in
"Prove what you say by your actions ... the fire. but it looks like she'll h<: able
usag~examp!e.· You always tell me
to rebuild an even bigger and bdtcr
one! As long as there is a happy
what a good friend I am but every time
I need your help. you're always too outcome to a situation, the struggle to
achieve it was wortlnvhile.
busy. If I'm really a good friend of
yours. show me. Actions speak louder
than words.
another think coming (to have) exp. to
translatiOn: You always tell me what a be destined for an unpleasant surprise.
good friend I am but every time I need
usage example: If you real! y believe
your help. you· re always too busy. If
you· re not going to get caught for
rm really a good friend of yours. show cheating on the test. you· ve got
me. Prove what you say by your actions.
another think coming.
translatiory_;_ If you really believe you're
again and again exp. repeatedly. not going to get caught for cheating on
usage example: I've told you again the test. you· re destined for an
and again to stop bothering me! unpleasant smvrise.
translation~ I've told you repeatedly to IJliiJI A common misconception even
stop bothering rne 1 among nati vc speakers of English is that
this expression is "to have anorher thing
coming.·· The reason for this is because
"AII'sfair in love and war" e.\p. '"When
the letter "k'" in "think" and the "c" in
two people are fighting to win the love
"coming,. share the same sound.
of someone else. there are no rules of
Therefore. when pronounced together
fair play ...
4uickly, "thing cominJ?" and "think
lj_sage example. 1\-Iark wants Laura to (·oming,. have the same sound.
fall in love with him instead of Tim. So.
he lied and told Laura that Tim used to
be in prison' I guess all's fair in love as plain as the nose on one's face (to
and war. be) exp. to be obvious.
/rans/at;on: l\·lark wants Laura to fall in usage example· I can "t believe you
love with him instead of Tim. So. he have no idea who stole the money from
lied and told Laura that Tim used to be your office. It"s as plain as the nose
in prison! I guess when t\VO people are on your face'
fighting to win the love of someone
else. there arc no rules or fair play. {!_f!ns/atlon I can· t believe you have no
idea who stole the money from your
office. It's obvious'
"All's well that ends well" exp. ""As long
as there is a happy outcome to a
situation. the struggle to achieve it was at the end of one's rope (to be) e.\fJ. to
worthwhile.·· be at the Iirni t of what one can tolerate.
usage ex_ample: I've taken my car to beat one's head against the wall (to)
the mechanic five times this month and exp. to waste one's time trying to
it just stopped working again. J"m at achieve something.
the end of my rope! usaiJ.I!. fjJ:<_ample: If you're going to try
translation: I"ve taken my car to the and get our professor to change your
mechanic five times this month and it grade. you're beating your head
just stopped working again. I can't against the wall.
tolerate it any more. translation: If you're going to try and
get our professor to change your grade.
at the top of one's lungs (to scream) you're wasting your time.
exp. to scream as loudly as one can.
usage example: When Cecily saw the
"Beautyisonlyskindeep" exp. 'The true
attacker, she screamed at the top of
measure ofheauty is hy someone's
her lungs. Luckily, that scared him
goodness, not hy his or her looks."
away.
l!_~age_e!!!f!!~ Lana may be
translation: When Cecily sa\v the
beautiful. hut she's a terrible person.
attacker, she screamed as loudly as she
She sure does prove that beauty is only
could. Luckily, that scared him away.
skin deep.
CI!III Any synonym of the verb "to
scream" could be used in this expression tran~ation: Lana may be beautiful, but
such as ''to yell.'' "to shout,'' ''to holler," she· s a terrible person. She sure docs
etc. prove that the true measure of beauty is
hy someone's goodness. not his or her
looks.
B "Beggarscan'tbechoosers" exp. ''People

who are given something for free can't
bad hair day (to have a) exp. (very be selective.''
popular) said of someone whose hair usage example: Peter forgot to bring
looks messy or poorly styled. his lunch when we went on our hike, so
usage example: I can't be seen in I offered him some of mine; When I
public today. I'm having a bad hair gave him my chicken sandwich. he said
day. he \\'anted my tuna sandwiCh instead. I
{!_?!J.Siation: I can't be seen in public told him that beggars can't be
today. My hair looks absolutely terrible. choosers and that he could have the
chicken sandwich or nothing!
I;)!Jilii"MI to have a good hair day
exp. translation: Peter forgot to bring his
lunch when we went on our hike, so I
offered him some of mine. When I gave
beat around the bush (to) exp. to be
him my chicken sandwich, he said he
indirect and vague.
wanted my tuna sandwich instead. I told
usage example: Just tell me what vou him that people who arc given
~vant.Stop.beating around the b~sh! something for free can't be selective
translatiOn: Just tell me what vou want. and that he could have the chicken
Stop being so indired and vag.ue! sandwich or nothing!
!86 GLOSSARY
behind someone's back (to do l:IliiJI This expression may simply be

something) exp. to do something shortened to: birds of a feather since
secretly and in a malicious manner. the rest of the expression is mere!)
inferred.
usaqe example. Tjust found out that
Todd's been talking about me behind
my back. biteone'stongue(to) exp. (figurative) to
!!anslatlon· I just found out that Todd's keep oneself from verbally attacking
been secretly talking about me in a someone.
malicious manner. usage example: Our new client is so
arrogant and insulting. T have to bite
"Betterlatethannever" exp. ''It"s better my tongue around her.
to do something late than not to do it at translatton· Our new client is so
au:· arrogant and insulting, T have to stop
usage example.· Although it's late. I myself from verbally attacking. her.
wanted to give you this birthday gift. lml3 "Bite your tongue!" cw
Better late than never! "Don't even suggest the possibility of
something so dreadful happening!"
trans/alia~ Although it's late. I wanted
to give you this birthday gift. It's better usage example: "Your house guest
to do something late than not to do it at may never leave."
all! "Bite your tongue'''
tra()sfation~ ''Your house guest may
never leave."'
"Bettersafethansorry" exp. ''It's better
"Don't even suggest the possibility of
to do something cautiously or else you
something so dreadful happening'"
may suffer the consequences later."
usaqe example: I know the piano is far
from 'Nhere we're going to be painting. bite the dust (to) np. • 1. to fall (on the
but we'd better cover it anyway. Better ground. looking as if one is eating dust)
safe than sorry. • 2. to fail • 3. to die.
J!anslation: I know the piano is far usa_ge example (Jl [to falll
from where we're going to be painting. As T was riding my bike. I lost my
but we· d better cover it anyway. It" s balance and bit the dust.
better to do something cautiously or !!anslatiot~As I was riding my bike. 1
else you may suffer the consequences lost my balance and fell.
later.
usage example (2)~· [to failj
I think I really bit the dust on the final
"Birds of a feather flock together" exp.
exam.
"People who are similar attract each
other." translation.· I think I really failed the
usage example.· Scott· s friends are all final examination.
strange. but like they say. birds of a ClliJ "Exam" is a popular
feather flock together. abbreviation for "examination ...
translatton: Scou· s friends are all usaqe example (3l_ [lo die}
strange, but like they say. people who I just heard my old piano teacher bit
arc similar attract each other. the dust.
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF AMERICAN IDIOMS ~87
translatton. I just heard my old piano usage example· Mike· s airplane trip
teacher died. was a little bumpy but he's been telling
I:IliiD When this expression is used to everyone the airplane almost crashed!
mean "to die.·· its connotation is He sure does blow everything [all]
disrespectful and indifferent. out of proportion.
translation: Mike's airplane trip was a

blind leading the blind (the) erp. said of little bumpy but he's been telling
a situation where an inexperienced or everyone the airplane almost crashed!
incapable person is being instructed by He sure does exaggerate.
someone eyually inexperienced or fi'lr'I•1MMI to make something into a
incapable. bigger deal than it is exp.
usage examplf3_:_ Jim is teaching Tom usagf} example: \Vhy are you getting
how to play tennis? That's a real case of so upset just because r m two minutes
the blind leading the blind. late'? You're making this into a bigger
translatiOn. Jim is teaching Tom how deal than it is.
to play tennis' 1 That's a real case of an translation: Why are you getting so
inexperienced person being taught by upset just because I'm two minutes
someone equally ino::xperienced. late'' You're exaggerating this entire
I:I!IIJ "Talk u!){}ut... " is an extremely situation.
popular exprt:ssion mt:aning 'This is
certainly an example of.....
boo-boo exp. (baby talk) injury.

"Blood is thicker than water" e.w
"Loyalty should be to tht: family first." usage example. Did you get a
boo-boo when you fell d0\vn' 1
usage example· Leon had a choice of
moving to anotht:r city with his parents. !!}:lnslation: Did you get injured \vhen
or staying bt:hind with his friends. Since you fell down'?
blood is thicker than water. he c::iiiJI 1\s just demonstrated. when the
dt:cided to go with his family. sound "boo" is repeated. it takes on the
translatmn: Lt:on had a choice of meaning of "injury:· Ho\\'ever. as a
moving to another city with his parents. single syllable ( ''Boo 1 "), it becomes an
or staying behind with his friends. Since interjection used to scare someone:
loyalty should he to tht: family first. he usage example: Stephanie \Vas hiding
decided to go with his family. behind the door. As soon as I walked
by, she jumped out and yelled "Boo!"
blowsomeoneaway(to) e.\p. to shoot
someone.
usage exampl~ One move and r ll book someone (to) exp. to register
blow you away! someone as a suspect at the police
lranslat10n: One movt: and I'll shoot station.
you! usage example John wa~ booked on
suspicion of murder.
blow something [all] out of proportion 1ranslat10n: John was registered at the
(to) np. to exaggerate. police station on suspicion uf murder.
us GLOSSARY
break out in a cold sweat (to) exp. to translatiOn: The hank was robbed in the
begin perspiring suddenly due to great middle of the day.
fear or anxiety.
L!_sage exam£fe,· When I heard about brush with death (to have a) exp. to haw
the earthquake near my parents" house. a near-death experience.
I broke out in a cold sweat.
usage exampl~ I hear you almost got
translation: When I heard about the hit by a bus yesterday 1 You really had a
earthquake near my parents" house. I brush with death.
began perspiring suddenly (due to
translation. I hear you almost got hit by
anxiety).
a bus yesterday 1 You really had a
I:IIliill The expression ""to break out·· ncar-death experience.
means .. to develop (a physical
condition).''
usage example: I just broke out in a buy into something (to) exp. to accept
rash. something.
t_!!l!'_'j/_a_tJOn. I just developed a rash. I!_Sage example: He gave you nothing

but excuses and you bought into it'
translation: He gave you nothing hut
break the news to someone (to) e.rp. to
excuses and you accepted it~
disclose sensitive and emotional
infonnation to someone. fi'W•i.'l 1M to fall for something exp.
usa_qe example_· Why do _you keep
usage f}_xample: The veterinarian just
falling for his excuses'?
called and Wid me my brother's dog
died. I don't know how I'm going to translation.· Why do you keep
break the news to him. accepting his excuses'!
translaUon: The veterinarian just called

and told me my brother's dog died. I bye-bye np. (commG;;ly proii\nmced
don't know how rm going to disclose "ha-hYe ")good-bye.
such emotional information to him. usage example. Bye-bye!
translation. Good-bye'
bric-a-brac exp. a group of inexpensive I:IIliill Young children m·e commonly
collectible objects. usually displayed in told to "lt·m.·e bye-bye," a phnL-;e applied
one's home. onlY to children. However. adults do
usage exaf72[Jie: This is some frequently used the phrase "IJYe-h\'e .. with
bric-a-brac I· vc collected over the other adults. especially on the telephone.
years.
!!_anslation: These are some objects
I've collected over the years.
c
broad daylight (in) exp. a common
expression used when refeiTing to a carjack (to) 1·. to steal someone· s car h)
crime committed in the middle of the use of a weapon.

day. usage exa_mpie.· I just got carjacked 1
L)Saqe examoie. The bank was robbed tran_slotton I just got my car stolen hy
in broad daylight. sOil1L't)nc carr.ying a \vcapon ~
Cil:!ll carjacking 11. the act of stealing clip-clop np. This refers to the sound
a car by use of a weapon. made by a horse as it walks on hard
ground.
usage example· Do you hear that
carry a tune (to) exp. said of someone clip-clop sound'' There must be a horse
\vho is able to sing on pitch. nearby.
usage examplec· rm not really a singer translation: Do you hear that sound a
but at least I can carry a tune. horse makes as it walks'' There must be
translation. l"m not really a singer but a horse nearby.
at least I can sing on pitch.
"Close, but no cigar" exp. "Being partially
accurate is still inaccurate."
catch someone's eye (to) o.p. to attract
usage example "Watch me shoot this
someone's attention.
target. I bet I hit it on my first try."
usage example· That painting really "Close, but no cigar. Belter luck next
caught my eye. time:·
translation. That painting really translatron: "Watch me shoot this
----·
attracted my attention. target. I bet l hit it on my first try."
"Being partially accurate is still
inaccurate. Better luck next time."
cheek-to-cheek exp. one person's check
pressed up against another person's
cold feet (to get) exp. to lose courage.
cheek.
usaqe example: I was going to ask my
usage example: I don't think they're boss for a raise but as soon as I saw
just friends. I saw John and Lisa him. I got cold feet.
dancing cheek-to-cheek all night~
translation: I \\. as g()ing t~) ~:.J:: rr:y boss
translaoon: I don 'tthink they'rejust for a raise but as soon as l saw him. I
friends. I saw John and Lisa dancing lost courage.
with their checks pressed up against
each other all night!
come clean (to) exp. to he honest (and
confess the truth).
chit-chat l'. & 11. trivial conversation. usape exar!}JJ}_f!. Come clean with me.
Did you bonow my car while I was out
usaqe example(/) [as a verbj
of town?
Let's go somewhere and chit-chat for a
w.-hile. !ranslatmn: Be honest with me. Did
you bonow my car while l was out of
translatron: Let's go somewhere and town·:
converse for a \vhile.
usaqe example (2) ras a noun] come to a head (to) e.rf'· said of a
The party \vas fun. There was lots of situation which reaches a critical point:
chit-chat and good food. to come to a climax.
translatron_;_ The party was fun. There usage exarnpfe· They'\e been ~mgry
;as lots of conversation and good food. with each oth~r for a long time and last
290 GLOSSARY
night everything came to a head. They "Crime doesn't pay" exp. "\Vhatevcr the
yelled at each other for an entire hour' outcome. it's not worth the
consequences of committing a crime."
translatiOn.· Thcy·v.: been angry with
each other for a long time and last night usage example: Sheila stole a
the situation reached a critical point. thousand dollars from work and now
They yelled at each other for an entire she's going to jail. It's the third time
hour! she· s done that to an employer. When
will she learn that crime doesn't pay?
translation: Sheila stole a thousand
"Come to think of it ... " exp. ''In thinking dollars from work and now she's going
about it more .. :· to jail. It's the third time she's done that
to an employer. When will she learn
usage ex?_f!!(Jit;L I wonder if it was
John who stole your wallet. Come to that it's not worth the consequences of
think of it. I did sec him with a wallet committing a crime?
that looked just like yours~
translation: I wonder if it was John criss-cross• 1. (noun) a pattern or design
who stole your wallet. In thinking about made of crossing lines • 2. (verb) to
it more. I did see him with a wallet that cross.
looked just like yours~ usage examf!!~: Last night, my mother
wore a blue dress with a criss-cross
pattern on the front.
cop 'i. police officer.
translation:· Last night. my mother
usage_ example: You're driving too wore a blue dress with a design made of
fast and there's a cop behind you' crossing lines on the front.
!ca_ryslation: You're driving too fast and
there's a police officer behind you 1
cuHsomeone(to) exp. to put handcuffs
I :1 o!. JUII This is an abbreviation of the on someone.
slang tem1 "copper, .. used only in old
usage example CuH 'im'
gangster movies and in jest. due to the
copper badges worn by police oftlccrs. translation. Put handcuffs on him!
Cl!IlJ€}11 This is a popular slang term ll!IiJI .. 'Im" is a common reduction
even among police officers. for "him."
cuHsomeone(to) exp. to put handcuffs

cover someone (to) exp. 1. to aim a gun
on someone.
at someone • 2. to protect someone by
using a gun. usage example CuH 'im.
y_sage example. SmTender. We've got translatton.· Put handcuffs on him.

you covered! ll!IiJI .. '1m" is a common reduction
for;'him."
1ran.slat10n: Surrender. We're aiming
our guns at you.
CliiJ:I The difference bet\\·een "Curiosity killed the cat" exp. "People
definitions 1. mid 2. depends on the who are too inquisitive and meddlesome
context. can get themselves into trouble."
usage example.· "I think that there arc lj§~_g~_B}<_ample:·

I told her that \Ve were
some criminals who just moved imo the only going to a barbecue hut she still
apartmem next door to mine. I"m going wanted to get all dolled up.
to go investigate:·
translatiOn: I told her that we were only
··J v.-ouldn 't do that if I were you. They
going to a barbecue bm she still wanted
could be dangerous! After all. curiosity
to get all dressed up.
killed the cat!··
I:Iliill This expression is used to
translation: ··1 think that there are some describe women only. For both men and
criminals who just moved into the women. a common expression is:
apartment next door to mine. rm going to get all decked out.
to go investigate."' fjll[•l!!l·'·a to be dressed to kill exp.
''I \Vouldn't do that if I were you. They to be dressed beautifully (may be applied
could be dangerous! After all. people to both men and v..-omen).
v..-ho arc too inquisitiYe and
l}S?ge_ e_;:afT]p_lf;!_;_ Laura was dressed to
meddlesome can get themselves imo
kill tonight!
trouble!''
translation: Laura was all dressed up
tonight!
D "Don't count your chickens before they

hatch" exp. '"Don't assume success until
it actually happens."
D.U.I. e.\p. a citation for Driving Under the usage example: '"My job interview
Influence (of alcohol). well! so well today that I'm going to
U.~Cif:le example: rm issuing you a quit my current job!"
D.U.I. '"No~--. wait! Don't count your
translation: rrn issuing you a citation chickens before they hatch!"

for dri~·in.g Under the influence of translatton: '"My job interview went so
alcohol. well today that rm going to quit my
191;1;Jf;h[.];ij D.W.I. exp. a citation for current job!"
driving While intoxicated. '"!\'ow. wait! Don't as~ume success until
it actually happens!"
11/;\jif;jrtn:roa Don•t count your
ding-dong n. This refers to the sound chickens before they've hatched exp.
made by a ringing bell. VARIA110N {2): Don't go counting
usage ex_a_!!l[l_le· Did you hear that your chickens before they hatch/
ding-dong sound? I think someone is they're hatched e.\p.
at your front door.
translation: Did you hear that bell
"Don't hold your breath" exp. '"Don· t
sound? I think someone is at your front
door. anticipate that happening."
f!Saqe example: I know she said she· d
remember to take: you to the airport. but
dolled up {to get all) e.rp. to get all don't hold your breath. She forgets
dressed up. everything~
[ranslauon: I know she said she'd rransiafl(_;r;. Y~.)u·rc gc)ing to buy a
remember to take :you to the airport. but wedding ring bcf,,r,, '<lll ask Jan tl'
don't anticipate that happening. She marry :ou·) Dl;n't d<' things out of
forgets everything' ;,_Jrdcr:
"Don't look a gift horse in the mouth" door-to-door(togo) n;'. to .;ulicitc<k·h

e.\f'. "Don't criticize gilb tlwr you house Ill a neighborhoud 1in h,lpc' ,,f
receiYc." .;cliing a proJuct ).
L!~age example "I \van ted a red !_!.SRye e•:;:;;-:-:,:Jie. The :-.i.dc:-.pc-r~nn went
bicycle for my birthday. This on.: is door-to-door trying tu sell bru,h..:s.
green~·· :rans·/a[:·:J.-: The o-;ak~person \\ cnt :n
"Don't look a gift horse in the c~ach hous..: in the: n.;!ghhurh'"'li try inOl
mouth. You could ha\ e l"c~cei\ ed to .;~II brthhes.
nothing'" t::I:im door-to-door salesperson n. <t
uanslatton: "I wanted a red bic:yclc for ll1Crch<lllt \l·hu gu,:-; to e<k'h h,,u,c in"
my birthday. This one is green'" n.:ighhorhlwd trying to sc·lling produ;..·t,.
"Don't criticize the gifts that you
receive. You could have recein~d
nothing'"
E
"Don't put all your eggs in one basket"
exp. ''Don't gamhk your possibility of ear-to-ear <'.If'· from one ear to the uthcr.
success on one goal sin<.:c failurr.: could \\'hen I ,,·alked in. 111y
usage'i!_[i:7l;'i.!:::
mean losing everything." mother\\ <h ,1niling rwm ear-to-ear.
usageexample. "If I get this joh. I can transiauon · \\'hen l \\ alked in. m:
pay oiT my debts. Th.:n I'll buy a car. 111utlwr had till cn,,rn1uu;, smile on her
ncv-· clothes and I!Hl\'C to a nc\\' race:.
apartment." "Don't put all your eggs
in one basket. What if you don't get
the job?" "Early to bed, early to rise makes a man
hea I thy, wealthy, and wise" nv
translatmn. "If I get thi;; job. I can pay
"P..:ople who go to bed c.·arly an:
oiT my debts. Then I' II buy a car. llt:\\
healthier. 1\CalthicT and ,,i,er thai!
clothes and move to a ne\\ apartment."
p.:upk '' ho go to bed late ...
"Don't gamble your p<h;,ibility of
success on one goal ;;ince failure <.:mdcl i_.rSage exan7p/c .. '{uu'rc ~uing tubed
mean losing cvaything. You nc.:d to already·) It's <ml: eight o'clock'"
apply for several jobs, .. "You know what the; say. Early to
bed, early to rise makes a man
healthy, wealthy, and wise ...
"Don't put the cart before the horse" rrcJns/at.rC)f! .. 1.-ou·r~..~
g~ling l(.l ht.·d
np. "Don't do thing.; out of ord,~r. .. airctidy .'It·, ,,nJ:
eight o'clock: ..
usage example.· You·rc going tu buy a "'{nu Klhl\\ ''hat lh<'y sa;.. Pc·<lpk' '' ho
wedding ring before you as~ Jan to got(> h.cd earh arc~ hc«lthicr. \\'C<tlthic·r.
malTY you·? Don't put the cart before and '' i,;er 1ku1 pc·opk who ,>1<1 lll hcd
the horse! l<nc ...
"Easy come, easy go" <'.\f' ".-\n; til;ng 1i1:"
c'ctn he '"''il; :KLJUI:"c~d. c:m l">c c:tsil: {'\fi. ··e:-!d ....:·\ . .·n;_, :d·..: ~~;\.\-~l.), {,·:;L_I\;, ___.~..;
t;Ji-.c·n :t'-\ a,·_ .

i.~:-- ~ -,t:J :...'\ .:;n,_ ..
~..lll\i:tr:-- ~-~d~r~ pL~> i!~~ i\)tdC'tt'-·· Then i

it ;.di ()!1 a hPr:--c·
il\:-.t raCL'. ()h. \\i.:!L £a~y
come, easy go.
~i' lllLL.:i:: Every rs:ay] b~oud ~~$ i":
today pia) ing roukllc~. Th~n

i k''' it :til silver lir:ins
on a horse r:\c'e. Oh. ''ell. .-\nything that
,·an be .:a-.ily acquired. can be: ,~a,!ly \\·~r.: L-.:--l \\ ....:·.:k b~..-·:..:~~th("} ni.l ;..i:;..in · t :::--·t
takcn away. tht: jl lb : \JU \\·~::llc<.L) \; '1;:.· hJ\.b:. ~ t.H_!
\\·~re t)tY(:r~d a jtib th~it pa; :- - t\\ iL·L· ~>
tnUL'll~ B~td ('\._'llh ~ir....:· ah\~t;> r·l_)l1~h,·ed

"Easy does it!" e.w • 1. "Be c:treful ;u1d
by gdod ;.."'\-~.,~!H>.
go ,;]uwly 1" • 2. "Cdm down' ..
i 1/.1:li_,,,,• a Behind every [g~ay]
cloud is a silver lining ''-'/ ).
Let·, lift thi-. couci1 on the Ulll\ll ;.Jf

three. But easy does it: f knm\ yuu
han' a \\·eak blKk.
Jk"'r>~)n \\ ;n h,~\-i..' ili~.:·h~..:r n1un1~..~n; ot'
r.rans.;·auot~ Lcl·:-:. lift 1hi~ cuuch un thL gh.)r:.··
count ofthn:e. But be ~·arcfui' I kllU\\
yuu htt\ c: a weak back.
dollar;-;.~ I gut~:-:. it'..; true \\'hen th~y ~a:
ysage '2(-!:!..!_nple (2.I_· [··cain: c:ov·~·n.: that every dog has its/his day:
Easy does it' I don't like being ydkd transla!tOn I ju~t \\"on a tht}u~and
at like this. dollar-.' l gu\.?ss it"s true when ltl~Y 'ia\
iransiatron.· Calm J(m n' I don·, like that\.?\ cry pet-,on \\ill ha,·c his/her
ht·ing yelled at like this. moment uf glory~
eat someone out of house and home

eye-to-eye{tosee) nv to b\.? in
(to) np. to cat all the food in
agrccn1~nt.
sumcune · _, hothc? to the poi Ill wher~ th,~
ners can barely atTurd to buy more
ll\\
i)Saqe f:X('.lr~:p/e. \\ L' dun·t s2e
eye .. to .. eye 1.1n hd\'-. H.~ r~tt~;: ~-hil . . lrL'li.
food and (l\her essentials.
USCjfli!_?:!__~Jrnple. \1: ~uu-.;in has been /;·a.:~·s.:,~};':::.).'' \\·~· d,Jn · L a~rcc un 111.)\\
staying with u' for t\\U months and it·, rai:-:c ~.:ilildrcn.
been terrible. He hlts an c:normuus

appetite. If he stays much hmg:t:r. h<: · ii
eat us out of house anc:i home' eyes bigger than one's stomach {to
rransia/lon.· i\·ly cousin has been have) np. l<' anticipate b\.?ing ahie r<'
~at lilUl\~ fuod than ui:...~ realiy L·an.
staying with U:'. fort\\<.' !l11.)11Lh~ anJ it":-.
been terrible. lie h~" an L'Il\ll"l11llli' usc~~/t ,-:;xarn.::.);'e Lc1uk al all1hat t'ond
appc~tilc'. If he Sta\ s ll\Uch longc~r. \\ <: ;ou,,rder.:d' !think your eyes are
,,,,n·t he ahk 1<1 affllrd 1<1 ii,·e~ bigger than your stomach.
'294 GLOSSARY
translatton: Look at all that food you could he dangerous since you may
ordered! I think you anticipated being notice unacceptable qualities ...
ahle to cat more food than you can. usage e)('!mple: We were such good
friends until we started living together. I
guess it's true when they say that
familiarity breeds contempt.
F t[anslat!on: We were such good friend>
until we started living together. I guess
face the music (to) exp. to confront an it's true when they say that getting to
uncomfortable situation. know someone very \Veil could be
usaqe example· Our house guest has dangerous since you may notice
stayed with us an extra two weeks and unacceptable qualities.
he's making us crazy. l"ve been
avoiding asking him to leave hut I think
feet wet (to get one's) exp. to try a new
it" s finally time to face the music.
experience for the first time.
translatto_n: Our house guest has stayed
usage example: I've never played golf
with us an extra two weeks and he· s
before. I'm just getting my feet wet.
making us craLy. I've been <Woiding
asking him to leave but l think it"s translation.· r ve never played golf
finally time to confront the situation. be Core. I'm just experiencing it for the
first time.
face-to-face exp. in person.

usage e_x<Hnple: I've been looking "Finders-keepers, losers-weepers" exfi.
forward to meeting you face-to-face. (used primarily among children) "If you
trans/at/em. r ve been looking forward find something. you're allowed to keep
to meeting you in person. it even though the person who lost it
may cry."
usag~ example. "He\. \ ou ha\ e my
fair shake (to give someone a) crp. to
pen' l dropped it here by accident!"
give someone the same fair treatment as
"It's mine now. Finders-keepers,
you would give to others.
losers-weepers' ..
usage example · Do you think the jury
will give the defendant a fair shake') translatiow "Hey. you have my pen' l
dropped it here by accident'"
{!ij[ISfatio!I_ Do you think the jury will "It's mine now. lfyou find something.
gi\'e the defendant a fair trial'l
you're allowed to keep it."
falsemove exp. an incorn:ct maneuver.

fish for a compliment from someone
usage example. One false move and
(to) exp. to try and get a compliment
I'll kill you.
from someone.
translatiOn One incorrect maneuver
and I' II kill you.
usage example; Today Lauren showed
me one of the paintings she made. You
should ha,·e h.:ard her talk for an hour
"Familiarity breeds contempt" exp. ahuut what a great job she did. She \\'as
.. G~tting to know someone very well tkfinitely fishing for a compliment.
_10_nslation: Today Lauren showed me translation: My father lost his temper

one of the paintings she made. You \vhen the neighbor's dog started barking
should have heard her talk for an hour in the middle of the night.
about what a great job she did. She was
definitely trying to get me to
compliment her. forkover(to) e.tp. to pay for something.
usage example: How much money did
you have to fork over for that new car".'
fit as a fiddle (to be) exp. to be extremely
healthy (used mainly by natives of the translation: How much mlmey did you
southern part of the U.S.). have to pay for that ne\1/ car"!
usage example: I was sick yesterday ~ to fork over exp. to give.
but todayr m fit as a fiddle. usage example That"s mine! Fork it
translation: I was sick yesterday but over!
today rm in great health. translation: That's mine! Give it tome'
flash in the pan (to be a) exp. to be quick "Freeze!"int£'1). ··oon't move~ ..

and temporary.
I::I!IiJI This expression may abo be
usage example,· His success was only a used by police officer~.
flash in the pan.
translation: His success was only quick
and temporary. "Freeze!"imerj. ""Don't move~··
I:I!IilJ Thi~ exprt'ssion may also be
used by criminals.
flip-flop(to} exp. to reverse the order of
something.
usa.qe example: The answer to this fre:eze:(to} inte1j. to stop and hold
mathematical problem isn't 32. It's 23. completely still.
You flip-flopped the numbers. usage example: Freeze or !"II shoot'
translat1on: The answer to this translation Stop and hold completdy
mathematical problem isn't 32. If~ 23.
still or I'll shoot!
You reversed the numbers.
~ flip-flop (to do a) e.rfl. to
change dramatically. frisk someone (to} <'.\Ji. to search
usaqe example: l\ly mom did a real someone·~ clothing for hidden or illegal
flip flop yesterday. She said I cnuldn"i po"cssions.
go to the party under any us<!rJ!3exampie: The police officer
circumstances. Today she said that I frisked the man for drugs.
could go!
translat;on. The police ,1ffict'r .;e,Jrchd
the man for hidden clr·.!t:~.
fly off the handle {to) ('.\"fJ. to iose one· s
temper.
USil[je i':Xii!.'~DiC \ly fath.:>r fleW Off frou-frou ''If'· elaborat<'.
the handle when the neighhPr· s dog usa_{_lf!_~x_~::e~t·J!P.· fJid yuu ~r.--c the v..-a:
>tarted harking in the middle nf the Susie decor<tted her hou>e·.• It·~ 10(>
night. frou-frou fpr me.
GLOSSA.RY
:.·ansi9t:nn. ()et control or your

r:motions: r n:' never seen you >o upset
before'
fa:.:.\ ! .goa 1
to get a grip 1'\f'.
usage examp1e Get a grip'

transiiJf,•on · Get control of yourself'
fi, !ti:u' rE)a to pull oneself
together np.
:Jsage__exa.rn.ole · You· H: g( ll to pull
za-g;; ever ~omeene or scm.z~hbg (to yourself together'
go) e:·:.:'. ru bL~·-·tnliC inLnuah.~t.i b~
You·' e gntto get control
. .;,; •nle~·\n,: ur "Pl11~;._>t_ilin.~.
' ·:_·
i<.at';!~,_~;!~.' j \:.'c'l!! sa·ga ()\'C'l" hL~!". !.\i1.t

,(:(• h·. .\:ti:.::·~-~·-) g2t on someone's case (to) np. to
criticize someone.
usage cxilmoie Why do you always
ha,·c to get on my case c\erv time I
make a little mistak..:·.>
:.! :n:·~·· ,;._·r..~:hlc·::<:.lh. ht:~i~·
.
~:·ans/afiCn \Vhy do you ah\ ays haYc
to criticize me C\Trv time I make a iittlc
rni:--take'.)
;;, getonsomeer;e'ine~w~s{to)cr;>. to
~1!1110~ :--Clll1C~11h~-
~-:~:eOS Px(~.: . :~n/e That lnud n1u\ic i:--
.::·,~ ;:i!-:. ,··~: ,_; ··:l·~ h~~'--C h~ get

~.:dL ;;d_>;::-~:·:::::2 t!~ c:b~~::;.t it I'll:-;:·,,_~, 1:
--- . . ,.
<:.:~; ;~:icni ::;Hi "'Pt.'·..?'-.ii . .'r·.
p,__'t_1;-<:::: ,__
.. ··· ,._,_·~~ \ ·. :·_· 'l1 !!]''··· ~.JW:w:.~ld.:t:.e-8 ~~get t~ someo~e ~ './: .
STREET TALK -3: iHf: BESl OF /\1/t[RIChl'-' IDIOMS 297
.:.\a_c;rc; exam.').''; lfc', ,;tartin~ to get cotNinnional rights. the judge in this
tome. ca<.e declared that any 'uspect must he
t.r·ar:s:'(-:::....-:.Jr; Ht' ·...:. ...:.t~ll·ting lt.' an no: \or read hi,Jhcr constitutional rights hel'ore
up,;ct 1 tile. questioning can be started. These righb
arc called the "Miranda rig ills" or
"Jfimndus ...
get the hang of something (to)"'!'· to
karn h"" to dn "'mc•thin~. The \liranda ri~ht' arc a,; i'olllli\'S:
:~sdoe e.>.a•r:i/t \\'he'll 1 fir,;t "c:nt
-f..iin~. l !.:cpt fallin~ do\\11. But after <I } ·nu hon-' r!Jc riglu To re1nuin si/en!. !(
I"'' hour'. 1 ,;tartcd to get the hang of \"O!f ~i;·c HfJ !ht' right to ren1aiL' .\/"lent.
it~ anything you su_,. r·on ond \i ·ill hf' I!St'LI
\Vhcn I fir."t \\·cni ..:.hiin~. o~oins! rolf in u rnurt o{lutl'. }"nu h£1\'('
k.cpt !'a!! in~ dl)\\-tL But ai·t...~r ~t ft..'"\\. the ri,~hr rn ·'"l'eof,· \t·irh ,,·1~· u/tornc\· ond .rn
hc')ur:-.. i -..tartcd I\' k'"ari: hn\:. lP -..ki hurt' an otronh'_\' ercsnrt durin~
quesiir,nint._•. /(you_,.() dc\irc und ( on;;u,r
(~{i(Jrc/ 01/('. {i/! U!iOF/lc\· 1t·.i!/ :'·. ,;•;"iOflitcd
(or you \rirh,-JHi ('hfl1"'...;C' ht :rc
get up enough nerve to do somethil'lg qucsrirHiin~.
(tO) :.'\}1. lC! "LJiJ)l1101~ thL: l'Oll!':\g.;,_' l(~ th) • /)o \"orr undcrsitm:..l eu('l: (?i"llh''-C rig/;Js
...:nnh.'"thin~. thor I hu~·e c.relt~ined !u you."'
lnHtld;\t get up • /)o t-o,·: ,,·ish to gio·c Uf' IU!II" ri'..:.·lu In
renldin ,\ii('nl :)
s /)n \"!'.'.'~;·ish ro ~ire llf' your rigi1! to
i ;,.:,1uh.in.1 ;-.urnrnPn cnou~h
'/Yak;,·) tn/ uUornc\· r;nu' .i1o\: J:.in:
;..:~Hlr~l_~.._· t{~ k'll hinl hl~ \\ ;t..., fi;·t.·d.
jiFr·'SOI!' :-iur:"n:.: (j!fC.\tinnin'..!~'
LLIO:.A l! ;.;,tt to get up the nerve lo
do something, '.i'.
"Give 'im 'i:o:: Mirandas"', If'· "C1i' c· h!;t:

hi:-- \iirand;1 ~-i~ht' ...
"Gimrne your money/walieuetc.", '!'
··ci\ -~ n1:..: \ -:)t!r '!h)n~'. .\\·;iJJ..:·t. . ,~!... :. ~ IJJ§f#):ft "i:·" i:-- :J \...\ 1 11H11~)1~ 1\~dl!i..:tiPn
~ ··c~~nnu· · 1" ~: c(•n!:n:'n

l :l!" "hi7'>.'"
!'i..'dlit.:ti~)l~ -:-..f ··~!\\' llh_'. t'l.l;ol,l!;.; hH "Read "im "i'I
Miranda5"" n,.".
&·;,~i<~.·q i,. ~ .. M!randize 'im"' ,'u 1
-. ( ~ ; . .:. ~ .
&, ' . '. q :.;;;;:.'E)!J "'Read "im
:
"i'I rights"'
hi" \1 ir:~;:~.l:t
;·;tJtjQl1 "/_-·· > .t ... :\i':i!':!·'·-~ r-~·-. . 1:_:..._·! ;~::
t~ 1r --hi-....··
i't.! :· :.:u;;.,,.K,~J!.tll '"Read "im "iz '"Give someone an inch, he/she will take
Mi~ar.cla;" ·,·
a!. , .i'".-~
.. ~~ira~dize 'i~" 1 ii;:h: ;'' "-l'n·r,'t): n~~-L,··.<h;,.' \\ ;p 11> tl··
; ;; ~~-- ;, . : ·.: ::·.~ ):";, .. "
~;.~{~"Read 'im ·~z ~~9~~~1>
... -: ' ,,
... ... >,'. ••
298 GLOSSARY
translatiOn.· I let my sister hmTm1· my go off the deep end (to) e.\f!. • 1. to
dres~ for the evening. Now she want~ to become upset and irrational • 2. to
take it with her on vacation for a week' become crazy.
If you give her a little of something. usaqe example: My teacher went off
she'lltry to take a lot more.
the deep end because I was late to
~ This expression may simply be class again.
shonened to: "Ciive someone an inch"
translation: My teacher got really ups..:t
since the rest of the expression is merely
infened. because I was late to class again.
fjnL'"i·a to flip out np.
usage example· Sandra flipped out
go [off] without a hitch (to) e.\Ji. said of when she saw her boy'fricncl with
a project or event that proceeds another woman.
smoothly.
!r"__anslat!O~
Sandra became extremely
usage example: Last night was the first upset when she saw her boyfriend 11ith
time I ever made dinner for my entire another woman.
family. I have to admit that it went
[off] without a hitch.
translation: Last night was the first go togllther (to) exp. to be dating on a
time I ever made dinner for my entire steady basis (said of two people in a
family. I have to admit that there were relationship .1.
no problems at all. usaue
_._, ·examoie:
··---·-
Jan and Paul arc
atO go WithOUt a Snag ('.
--
fjl 1:I; t If •'• \"f'. getting married"' I didn't even kn0\1

[ ··snor; ··=!lit): a break or tear in fabric[. they were going together'
t!~?nSiauon Jan and Paul arc getting
married'! I didn't even know they wer<:
go in one ear and out the other (to)
dating each other'
e.rf'· to ignore 11·hat someone says: not to
pay allention to what someone says.
usac7e exar.~.efe_· r' ~ told you thrct.~ goochy-goo e.rp. The.se 11 ords are used w
time~ to take~ off) l'Ur shoe.s before you indicate that someone i,; being tid.kd.
walk tll1 the 1ww carpet. I kel like
usa_qe_!3.!_~~7\oie. '{our baby is so cute'
n erything I sa;. to you goes in one
Cioochy-goo!
ear and out the other.
:ransiat10n · ):'our baby is sn cute~
tr;;r;s/ai'Ot' I" 1 e told you three time:< to
Tiel-; k. tickle~
tal-\c nff '('Ur 'hnr.:..;, l_~cfon:· YPU \valk on
- - 111;1 ;i i,)' :,; . 103 goochy·goochy-goo
the lh~ll c'arpc·t. I !.xi like y flU igiWrc·
;:\·crything I~~~: io ;.{)lJ.
np.
l'lri,ilj,:,; rea coochy-[coochyJ coo
c.rp.
go off on someone (to} nf'· to: ell
an~ril: al ....;.otn~o~Oih.').
:Jsar'::.: ::;.'.::_l,--::.J . ·~
l f ~1c· -"~lY~ an~ Ihin.g goochy-goochynf'. rid;lc. tickk.
~~bout ;m ''eight. f' n, g(ling to go off J'n1 gPillg tP tid;k
on him
STREET TALK -3: THE BEST OF Alv\ERICAN IDIOMS 299
t:::liiJI This phrase is commonly used _!.}J_age examp~c Hand over your
by someone who is tickling someone wallet'
else.
translation. SuJTender your wallet'
111;1;1 I;! 1 i•::CDD goochy-goochy-goo
l'i;l;!f;lrin:a to hand something over
1'.\]J.
exp.
1'1;1;1 I;! 1 i•J:IOD coochy-coochy-coo
usag_t! exarr(ole. Hand it over~
exp.
translatmn. Surrender it (to me)~
go to town (to) exp. to do something to

the extreme. handoversomething (to) np. to
usa_qe exan_J(Jie That saxophonist surrender something (to someone).
really went to town on his solo! u_sa_qe example. Hand over your
wallet!
translatmn.· That saxophonist really
played his solo with complete abandon' uanslatmn.· SwTender your wallet'
fj4.ln:;.,•.coa to go all out exp. 1'/;lill,!li•l.'a to hand something over
<'Xf>.
usaqe example You really went all
out for this party! ~age example. Hand your wallet
trans/a lion. You rea II y spared no over'
experbe for this party' translatton. Surrender y·our wallet'
fi 1Y 1 I 1 ,',fQ !I to let out all the stops
np.
hand-in-hand (to walk) np. to 1val k
usa_g_e_ example· When Joanne gin:s a while holding hand~ with someone.
party. she lets out all the stops!
usage examoie They must be ''CI'Y
/rans:·,c.':nn · \Vhen Joanne has a party. good friends. They're walking
she gnt:' ::1! the way! hand-in-hand.
translijl!on They nlu>t be 1 cr) good
l'riencb. ThC\'rc 11alkicg and hPiding
each other· s hands.
H CI!lii to go hand-in-hand"-'!'· to go
together.
ha-ha "-'!'· U>c'd to indicalt' laughter ~~-og_e UX:iJ_f_l_}pis
Dt' you think th:tt
lusuall;. sarca:-;tically I. being rich and being happy go
hand-in-hand-'
usane ex;;.c?.'Uic "\\'hat did you think
of my joke·'" trat:s/at,·on DP ;..-ou thinl-. that hL·in~
--Ha-ha. V cry runny ... rid1 and being happy gt' tc,gethcr'-'
~ Ha-ha! l'.lf'· used to indicate
contempt fur "'meone else· s mi,,fnrtune.
hand-to-hand combat np. fighting'' ith
us;-}gi:: e\·a,-nt?!F · Ha .. ha ~ l \\·on and you 0111:: • s hand> ( <b l'pposed to using
](l~l: <~·capor~> ).
f)j, ;;,,,,,,a hee.. hee e.\"jJ.

i./Sage :::xarnn!e:The t\\·o learns ~ot
in1 oil ,~d in hand-to-hand combat.
hand over something (to)"'/' rn ... ',;t:~i'' The> 111 ll tc·ams fnught cadJ
. . urr~...·ndcr 'lHlh.:Ihin~ lit) "'~'111•~~)ncl tlll1l~r h; u~(~ pf tht)ir hand:--.
300 GLOSS,-'.RY
"Hands b'hin' d'jer head/back!" e.r;' c:dcu!ation-..;. Ren1cn1hL·r. if }illl d{l tl1L'
"H:mlb behind y<'ur head hac~~·· .i<'h in a hurry. :ou'!lm:;~~ mi,t:th~'-
I.HhJOa .. B.hin ... i~ a cornnH)Il
reduction for ··behind''. In the cxarnpk have a good head on one's shoulders
abll\ c. the nati\t:-born spca~cr ''ill (to) l..'..\p. -..;aid (lr ,, Jnh?nnL' \\ lH 1 ; .... , .::·>
either say ··f> 'I! in· djl'l'" nr "h 'hind "<cr
intclligent and rati<lllal.
at hi.s/lwr di\cn:tion.
usags f:K<.m,nle Tt'm has a good
I :·It tsa i:" a COflHllOll
"f) '/er ..
head on his shoulders. I'm 'urc lw'll
reduction for"> our" 11 hen prc'cedcd b;.
make the right ckci,inn about \\hich
the lt:ucr "D." For cxampk: /think rou
house ttl hu\.
droflf'Cd \'OIIr kn·s l>c!Jin· d'jer (Or
behind yer 1 car. :r,}r:s/aUor;_ Ton1 i, "·ery intc!li_7-'.c!1t ~n1d
ratiPnal. f'rn sun: hc-1! make the· nght
1.\•JtJQS "T'(·hrr" i.'- a conli11Pll
dc:ci,ion :tb•llll v. hic:h hmt'l' l•' hu).
reduction fm "your" when prc'Cc'dcd hy
the ktLtT "T. .. For c·xamplc: f'l!! t'cher
\'11'cater in rile cfo,·e!. have a sweet tooth (to) np. t<> lP\<C
I,(,, JOB .. Yci· .. is ~l cnnlnlnll
rcduction fnr· "your" v:hen pnxcJcd hy ;;sa;}_i_'!.<<FT'!H':' I ha1·c: "~weet too~h.
any letter. f'nr· l'xampk: Where 's yer I cnuld eat c~llid:- rnr t"\ cry n~·~a!:
sisrcr todu.<' o /srliur yer 1or t'cher r
J ltn c\ ~\\'t~~...~t:-... I L't.Hlld .::..':il
\t'lllch?
cand\· for e\-crv n1e~tl:
It i.s important to note tkrt "\·cr .. and
"y ·,. .. ciill al\1·a: s be used a\ a rt:duction
(nr "y(llii" .. or '"ynu'rc ... Hi.1\\\~\·t'r. \\·h,~n have a weakness for something (to) nP
pnxc·ded h the kiiL:•· "[_)"or· .. ·[ .. <:;, tp h~t\·L~ l! p~t.;,;_;....ipn fnr :-:nn1~.._'l.hin.!] .
prr~'\·inu;-.l) d~..~n11 nJ...;tr;ltl'd }. thl~ :-.pc.·ak;.~r
ha:-. rh:.."' c!lnic-.-- ol' itll ::dditinnal rcduL·tinn.

·;_:):·-::s/a:·:.:_:,::_ 1 h~t\ ;._' :! r\l'-,:--.i::n (, li'
(..'h. )(()btc ~
hang in there (to) nr. • ! . t•, "'·:<it
patiently • 2. !t\ ht· .-...in~n~ ~md pl·r~t..'\'-'!\~.
ru,:.: IIIIa tohaveathingfor
something C\f'.
i.:s·u9c ~:-..-d:·~::_; . .e r·n hl~ cn :. ..'r ri-l ~~...:t y-.·tt i have a !hing !<,
in ~d-.nut ~tn hnur. -.11 ju"i hang in there
··_'<.:..7~:;_.;.-; l"ll h . .' ,y..-~....~~- ~(' ~~,_·t >1:1i in
.tl:c·ut ~i!~ lH'!!!". -..~1_iu't \\alt pati~ntl: .
have the time of or;e'i me (to) ( \!' .
"-l."lilk'thin~ i11 ~l huiT>. :• ·-u-i! n;nl n ·,:!:~:

~~lu.i1 pr~.~h~tl~i:- !1.~\'-' t-..) ~...~~: ~t 1'\Cri_ .•
·.''.. ·· '"
!.. ,,,,,J-::'
I 0 i ~ • ', ; : : ~ l ' ' I ' J '.'
'!;:;"\.::· ··.'. !: . ; :··· "-\.'

STREET TALK -3: lHE BEST OF N/tERICAN IDIOtvtS 301
I'm going to do something cw~n \\Orsc "Hitthedirt!" t:Xf'. "Get down on the
to you. ground~ ..
usaqe example: Stew kept laughing ,,, \jH,J.:.::a UHit the ground! .. eXJ>.
;tbout the trick he played on me. But I I::I!IiJI
This expression may also be
told him that he· d better stop laughing used by criminals.
because he who laughs last, laughs
longest.
hit the nail [right] on the head(to) np.
translai~on. Ste\ e kept laughing about to bt.: absolutely correct.
the tricl-. he played on me. But I told
him that he'd better stop laughing
'!:c5f!Ye example "Ho\\ did he get to be
promoted to supen isor'' His father must
because I'm going to do something
bc the president of the company ...
worse to him.
"I think you hit the nail [right] on the
lif;ldl;j,:q; "He who laughs last, head~ ..
laughs best" np.
translation. "Ho,,· did hc get to be
promoted to supervisor·.' Hi' father llllhl
head-to-head(togo) exp. to fight be the president of the company ...
verbally or physically (like two rams "I think you· re ab-;olutely corn?L'l'
that battle by thrw;ting their heads fil l•:t'u,'.a to be dead on np.
against each other).
~~sage~ exarnpie_)' ou were dead on
!!.§BY!!. example_~ !v1ark and Paul went when you said not to tn1st ht.:r. She stoic
head-to-head for an hour oYer who hundreds of dollars from the company~
~hould be allowed to go on Yacatinn
uanslauun Ynu wcrl' absolutely
fiN.
corrcct ''hen you ~aid not tu trust her.
tra,·~s!a!l()r: \lark anJ Paul fought for Shc stole hundreds pf dollars from thl'
an h< .u:· '>n'T w·ho should tw allo,,·cd to cl.lmpany ~
go i)!l vacatl(lil fir~t. (.1 Jj•::.,•.a to be way off base ,-rp tn
be absolutely incc>ITt'L't.
heart-to-heart np. an hone>~ and open usage exarnn.··e If' Pu think Da,·id''
l'\Hl\\~rsatiun.
gPing to giYc you a prc\t'i1t. you're way
off base.
usa09 exc_;r_?)D/e \\·l, ne('d to ha,·l' a
hear!-to·heart ahc>ut sc~\. If :c>u thin!-. L);;\ id.' '""ing
lll .~i, ..._,) uu ~~ prc\t:!H. yt\u·r·~~ ~tb:--oltn'-·l:
uc.:.nsiat.:D.n_ \Vc need to ha\ e an hPnt-'7-t \\ rnng.
and open con\·crs:llion ;tbuut se\.
hold one's own {to) <''-/'· tn h<' 'LJ'\

"Hip-hip-hooray!" np. a L·omnwn ch<.'cr. capahk at s<>rncthing '· ,,·ithnut an;
?-;,-aqs ex7:--:·i{;/e 1.ct- :- hear it for our ~l~\i~tancc ).
hen,: Hip-hip-hooray' D,,u~ holds his own
"Hitthedirt!" <''·!'· "Cc·t dc>\\·nun rhc·

gn'tinli··· ;l.irp\;·mc piloi.
~)· !+ll :; 'ffi ""M~t the groi.!ndr~ e.\f'i. g,:1n@US The" phr~:"'-' ·· ··/;~_·.;1 ir c~.·n:(·-..
~ Th1~ l~":'rL~,...,ion rn~ty ~tbn be to .. ; Tncaning .. ,\·irh :-~T:H\1 tc ...!
u:-:.~'d -~"':· policl.' l ~(~-i~:t·rs. cnninlonly :·uliP\\., thi:-; c\;-::rL·:--;,ii'Tl.
302 GLOSSARY
usage exa_n!f?!e,· I can hold my own "hold up" their am1s during a robbery to
when it comes to golf. show· that they are not carrying weapons.
translation: I am (~apahle with regard to fi'l:[tl.ll.',a SEE: stick up exp.
golf. IJI:ml SEE: to hold someone up exp.
l![•l!J€}3 The phrase ''in the
j1·erh+ing 1depamnem .. may also
"Honesty is the best policy" e.rp. "You ·11
follow this expression.
always get the best results if you're
usage example. I can hold my own in honest ...
the golfing/ singing/cooking/etc.
I!_Sage example· You'd better confess
department.
the truth to your mother. Honesty is the
trans/a/ion. I am very capable at best policy.
golfing/singing/ cooking/etc.
translation. You'd better confess the
tnllh to your mother. You ·u always get
hold someone up (to) exp. to rob the best results if you're honest.
someone.
usage example I got held up today in
front of my house'
trans/alton.· I got robbed today in front I
of my house'
~ to hold someone up at
gunpoint exp. to rob ~omeone by using ''I'll blow your head off!" exp. "''ll shoot
a gun. you in the head!"
usaqe example: Don't mo"e or I'll
blow yo~:r head off!
hold someone up (to) exp. to rob
someone. transiatton: Don· t move or J' II shoot
you in the head'
usage example: I got held up in broad
daylight'
trans/alton: I got robbed in the middle I'll say! exp. • 1. "Absolutely'" • 2.
of the clay~ "You're absolutely right'"
I:Iliill The expression .. in /Jro{[(/ l!._sage example "Do you think he· s
dm·lighr" is commonly used \\"hen handsome''"
talking ahout crime~ committed in the "I'll say'"
middle of the clay. transiat:on: "Do you think he's
~ to hold someone up at hand-.omc·>"
gunpoint np. to rub ,onwone by using "Absolutely, ..
a gun.
[:Ilii! \Vhen pronouncing this
expression. it's imp011ant to put the
hold-up 1'.\fl. robbery. emphasis on ''J'/1" giving it a higher
usage example~
This is a hold-up. pitch than "sm· . ..
Don't anyone mo' e'·
!rans/aiion. This i;.. a robbery. Don't "If at first you don't succeed, try, try
anyone 1111.)\'C' ~ again" 1:'.\'f'. "If you don't succeed in
!, :n'
fOB This expression \\·a~ doing something the first time. keep on
Priginatc·d since\ lctirn~ ar;: rn;.~de to trytn&.
usa.qe example: \Vhat do you mean the same way as one is at the moment of
you're ready to give up? If at first you binh: naked.
don't succeed, try, try again.
translation:
- ·-- .
What do vou mean vou·re.
ready to give up' 1 If you don't succeed
"It takes two to tango" exp. "It takes two
people to do certain activities.''
in doing something the first time, keep
on trying. '!sage examplec What do you mean the
fight was my fault? It takes two to
tango!
"lfworsecomestoworst .. .'' exp. "In the
translattOf!:. What do you mean the
worst possible case ... "
fight was my fault'' It takes two people
usagec;xample: I'm sure \\·e'll be able to have a fight'
to get a ticket on the airplane. Besides,
if worse comes to worst, we can
always take a train.
translation: I'm sure we'll be able to
get a ticket on the airplane. Besides, in
J
the worst possible case, we could
always take a train. jingle-jangle exp. The sound made by
fi'i:!.Ja••.'~A ..., push comes to shoven metallic objects rubbing against each
1:'.\p. other.
usagf! example, Do you have keys in
in someone's shoes (to be) exp. to he in your pockct' 1 I hear a jingle-jangle
someone else's situation. sound as you walk.
usage example: Your rent is due in translation: Do you have keys in your
two weeks! lfl were in your shoes, I'd pocket? I hear a jingling sound as you
he looking for a job today instead of walk.
translation: Your rent is due in two junk-food junkie exp. a person who loves
weeks! If I were in your situation. I'd unhealthful food such as candies,
be looking for a job today instead of cookies, fried foods. etc.
usage example: I admit that I'm a
junk-food junkie. I could eat cookies
in the raw (to be) exp. to be completely all day!
naked. translation: I admit that I love
usa.qe example: I guess he didn't know unhealtht:ul food. I could eat cookies all
I was in the house. Vlhen I walked into day'
the living room, he was just standing
there in the raw!
translation: I guess he didn't know I
\Vas in the house. \\'hen 1 walked into K
the living room, he was just standing
there completely n.aked!
fi•·'lol!w.ij to be in one's birthday keep someone posted (to} exp. to keep
suit exp. (humorous) • (lit); to be dressed someone informed.
304 GLOSSARY
~e example· I'm not sure when I'll USil,ijeexamp/e I' rll tired of ynu kilh
be ani1·ing at the airport. but I should coming to my house and misbehaYing'
knol>.' tomonow. I'll keep you posted. Nm1· I'm laying down the law. There
trans/a/ion. I'm not sure \>.hen I' II be will b<' nn jumping. no yelling. and Ill.l
ani1·ing at the airport. but I should hitting while you're in my horne. Is that
clear'-'
know tO!llOITC.lW. r II keep you informed.
rrans!atmn.· I'm tired of you kid~
coming to my house and mishehming:
keep something to oneself (to} exp. to
Now I'm imposing stri<:t ruk ...;. There
keep something secret.
will be no jumping. no yelling. and no
usaqe example. You have to keep hitting while you're in my horne. I' tktl
this to yourself. I just found out that clear'?
Maggie won the election but it won't be
announced until tomonow.
tran_slation. You have to keep this "Lemme see yer hands" np. "Let me
secret. I just found out that Maggie won see your hands."
the election but it won't be announced l:(•),jDtl "Lenune ··is a conunon
unti I tomonow. reduction for "let me ...
•n·htDD "Yer .. is a C0Il11110ll
"Keep yer hands where I c'n see 'em" reduction for "your."
exp.
l;[•hjOB I<Yer" is a cornn1on
reduction of "y.our.'' "Let bygones be bygones" t'.\p. "Let's
forger what happened in the past (and

•.:t·htaa "C'n" is a C0flll110Il
look toward the future)."
reduction of "can.··
l:t•hjQB "'Etn" is a comn1on usage example.· 1 know you had a big
reduction of "them.·· fight with Julie~ !r:mg t!mc «go. ivlaybe
l!(o!iJO!i This expression may also be it's time to let bygones be bygones
used by police officers and criminals. and be ti·iends again.
trans!atmn: I know you had a big fight
with Julie a long time ago. Maybe it's
knick-knack exp. a name given tn an
time to forget about what happened in
insignificant object or trinket: a "thing."
the past and be friends again.
usaqe example: How long have you
been collecting these knick-knacks'!
trans/at/one· How long have you been let someone have it (to) exp. to
collecting tbese things? reprimand someone strongly.
111;1df;j,[l]ia nicknack eJ.j). usa_qe example If he insults mc again.
I'm going to let him have it'
translation. If he insults me again. I'm
going to reprimand him.
L ti'•:\•L 1c;:a
to give it to someone np.
usaqe exurnpie: lVIy mother gave it to
lay down the law (to} exp. to impose my brother for using her car without
strict rules. permission.
STREET TAlK -3: Thi: 3EST ()f /\lv',[R!C/\N !D!0/1.15 305
:J·sar;,.e _!!,~.:.:.':'17/)le·
If he in:--.tdts 111e a~ain. ~ to book someone np. to
I'm going to let him have it' register ,omconc as a .\Lhpco.:t b) putting
:rans!aiiur:. I!" he: irbulh me again.l"m hi,;/hcr nalllc' illtu a logbool-; at the polic·e
,tati<'n.
going to rcprim~mdhim.
fj',':,:.'t 1,. § to give it to someone e.rp.
!!SdCfP c:Xa(':(iit: .\1) mother gave it tO "Live and let live" c w '"Li 1 c your Pwn
my brother for Ll"llg hcT car\\ it bout lik without telling other, how w li\c'
pcrmis,ion. theih ...
~)\ mot her· reprimanded
!ra.r,'S:'a[,:)t: usage e.n:n_oie · \\'hy do you care hm1
brother fnr using hcT car\\ ithout
Ill) my l'ricmb li\e their li\t:\. It's none of
pcnnission. your business. Live and let live.
uansiatmn. \Vhy do you care how m\'
let som2one have it (to) c.>.p. to kill friends live their lives. It',., none of your
,omcone I either ligurati\cly or literally. business. l.i\ <.:your own life without
depending on the corllc:-.tL telling others how to lin~ their,.
usuge f:Xi'!J.!pie, If you don't gimme
yer mone) right now. I'm gonna let love at first sight (to be) np. >aid of a
cha have it' silllation where two peopk fall in love
lfyou don't
me y(>ur gin~ upon fir>t glance.
money right nO\\, I'm going to kill you! usage exurnplf:!.: \Vith my mom and
I:Ili:i:! "f.erclw" ami "lei chnl' .. arc a dad. it \I as love at first sight.
common reduction" or "let )·OU ...
uanslat,on. With my mom and dad.
the;. fell in love a~ soon as they saw
let someone off the hook (to) e.rp to each other.
release ,.,orneonc of responsihility.
ussqe sxamp~P I know you broke my lu-lu (to be a) np. -.aid of something
watch by accident.'<> I'm going to let
impre>si\e.
you off the hook. Jw,t be careful next
time. usage cxarn2_~e.:_ How did you get that
black eye·.> What a lu-lu'
translation_ I know you broke my
watch by <h.:cicknt. so I'm not going to uanslar,on !low did you get that black
hokl you respon,iblc. Just he careful
nc;...t time.
I:Ili:i:! This expression may abo be
shone ned to to let someone off np.
u:'age exarnp!e. r II let you off this M
one time.
translation. I'll release you of make cracks about someone or
respon:-ihility this one time. something (to) e.1p. to make
a
fij;:oL 11 11 to let someone slide !:'~"f'· derogatory remark-, about someone or
,;omcthing.
"Let's take 'im in 'n book 'im" !:'rp. usage exump!r:;. If you make another
"Let's take him into the police station crack about my best friend. r II ne\·er
and register him."' speak to you again.
306 GLOSSARY
usage._eJ59mple: Welcome to my tmns/ation: There's a lot of crime in

house. Please make yourself at home. our city. It's happening increasingly
often.
translation· Welcome to my house.
Please make yourself feel as l:!•hJOij As seen above. when
comfortable as you would in your own followed by a comma (or pause). the
home. expression "more and mon:" mean~
"increasingly often." However. if not
followed by a comma (or pause). the
mish-mash c:_-.:p. a collection of unrelated expression means "an increasing
items or clements. amount." For example:
usage e~'!l_[}~c· At the party last night. More and more, people are mm·ing to
they served a mish-mash of different Ca/ij(mlia.
foods. The appetizers were Ethiopian, Increasingly often, people are moving
the main course was a French delicacy. to California.
the vegetables were prepared Spanish More and more people are nw1·ing ro
style, and the desserts were all Greek. Cal((lnnia.
An increasing number of people are
f!ilnslation: At the part last night. they
moving to California.
served a variety of different foods. The
I![•!! jDQ When followed by a comma
appetizers were Ethiopian, the main
(or pause), the expression "less and
course v..-as a French delicacy. the
less .. means ''increasingly seldom:·
vegetables were prepared Spanish style.
However. if not followed by a comma
and the desse11s were all Greek.
(or pause). the expression means "a
decreasing amount.'' For example:
"Money is the root of all evil" exp. Less and less, people are buying cars.
"Money causes all the problems in the Decreasingly often. people are buying
world." cars.
Less and less people are buying new
usage example: A lot of people will do
cars.
anything for money even if it hurts
A decreasing number of people are
others. I think it's true when people say
buying new cars.
that money is the root of all evil.
translation: A lot of people will do
anything for money even if it hurts mouth-to-mouth exp. (short for
others. I think it's true \Vhcn people say "molllh-10-mollth resuscitalion'') a
that money causes all of the problems in resuscitation technique used on somcon.:
the V.'orld. who ha~ stopped breathing - the technique
consists of pressing the rescuer's mouth
against the vietim"s mouth and blowing
moreandmore exp. increasingly often.
air into his/her lungs.
usage example (7): More and more,
'!3C1YB example: I had to give
people arc moving to California.
mouth-to-mouth to my little brother
translation: Increasingly often. people when he fell into the swimming pool
are moving to California. and stopped breathing.
usage ex~f!!ple (2J. There's a lot of translatiOn; I had to resuscitate my
crime in our city. It's happening more little brother when he fell into the
and more. sv.'imrning pool and stopped breathing.
muu-muu n. a long cool one-piece dress a chance to get worse (as one would
(originally worn by women in Hawaii- stop the growth of a tlower by clipping
pronounced .. moo-moo .. ). or .. nipping .. the bud).
usag_e example l bought this IJSa_qe example. The children were
muu-muu in Hawaii. It'll be perfect to starting to fight O\Tr the ball so I
wear when I go to parties this summer. nipped it in the bud by taking it away.
!!_anslation.· I bought this cool long !!_anslat!On The children were starting
one-piece dress in Hmvaii. It'll be to fight over the ball so I put a stop to it
perfect to \>.'car when I go to parties this quickly by taking it away.
summer.
no laughing matter (to be) exp. said of a

serious situation.
M usageexample.· This is no laughing
matter. If you don't pass this test
you· re not going to graduate.
"Naughty, naughty!" exp. a phrase used
translatiOn.·
- - - - This is a serious situation.
primarily by parents when scolding a
Ifyou don't pass this test. you're not
disobedient child.
going to graduate.
y_saqe example_;_ Naughty, naughty! I
told you not to touch that!
"No news is good news" exp . .. Ir you
haven't received any news. assume it's
"Necessity is the mother of invention"
good news ...
exp . ..If you're desperate enough, you'll
find a way to-accomplish anything." usage exam~ I had my job interview
a week ago and I still haven't heard
usaqe example: I couldn't afford to
anything. I hope that doesn't mean I
take my car to the mechanic so. I
didn't get the job. I have to keep
figured out a way to fix my car for free.
remembering that no news is good
Necessity is the mother of invention.
news.
!ranslation: I couidn 't afford to take my
translatJO!I_ I had my job interview a
car to the mechanic so, I figured out a
week ago and l still haven't heard
way to fix my car for free. If you're
anything. I hope that doesn't mean I
desperate enough. you' II find a way to
didn't get the job. I have to keep
accomplish anything.
remembering that if you haven't
received any news. assume it's good
neck-and-neck (to be) exp. to be even in news.
a race.
usage example: The two runners arc
"Nothing ventured, nothing gained"
neck-and-neck. I wonder who will
exp. "If you don't attempt something
finally be the winner!
difficult. you'll never benefit from the
translauon· The two runners are even. l potential rewards."
wonder who will finally be the winner 1
usage example· I know you're nervous
to ask the boss for a raise, but
nip something in the bud (to) exp. to put remember. nothing ventured, nothing
a stop to something quickly before it has gained.
308 GLOSSARY
translatmn: I know you're nervous to translation: You're so thin' Haven't

ask the boss for a raise, but remember. you been eating \veil?
if you don't attempt it, you'll never get
anything.
no-host bar exp. a bar at a party where the

0
guests arc expected to pay for their
drinks. on second thought exp. upon
usafl!!_!!_!:_i![nple: If you want something reconsideration.
to drink. you II have to pay for it. It's a usage example: I think I'll buy this
no-host bar. suit right now. On second thought. I'd
translation: If you want something to better wait until I have more money.
drink, you'll have to pay for it. The translation. I think I'll buy this suit
guests have to pay for their own drinks. right now. Upon reconsideration, I'd
CiiiJ The term "no-host" bar is only better wait until I have more money.
common in the westcm portion of the
United States. whereas the expression
"cash-bar" i•; used in the cast. on the level (to be) exp. to be telling the
truth.
'!!j!jfLe__example: The salesman said
no-no n. (used by parents when talking to he's giving us the best price in town.
a child) not permitted. Do you think he's on the level'?
usage example: Eating icc cream in translation: The saiesman said he's
the living room is a no-no! giving us the best price in town. Do you
_(!anslation: Eating ice cream in the think he's being truthful?
living room is not permitted!
l.'!:irjOI Adults frequently use this "Onyourknees!" exp. "Get on your
expression among themselves as well. knees!"
For example:
usage example: Being late is a big
on-and-on (to go) exp. to talk incessantly.
no-no in this office.
l![:j, jf)l Other synonyms for "no" usage example; Lisa goes on-and-on
would be incon·cct in this expression, about how she wants to be a big movie
such as "nope-nope. " "nah-nah, " etc. star some day.
Additionally, this expression does not translation: Lisa talks incessantly about
v..-ork \\'ith "yes. .. Therefore, "yes-yes, .. how she wants to be a big movie star
"yep-yep," "uh-lmh, uh-huh," etc. some day.
would all be incorrect usage.
one-by-one exp. one person or thing at a

nothing but skin and bones (to be) exp. time.
to be excessively thin. usage example· I want you to fold
usage example: You're nothing but your shirts carefully one-by-one.
skin and bones! Haven't you been !!.?eslatJon: I want you to fold your
eating well? shirts carefully one at a time.
STREET TALK -3: THE 8lST CF /\C.. \~RiCAJ\ i[)\Crv',S 309
"One good turn deservtts another" ,. If' out-and-out np. n>mpktc~. roral tmay he
··_·\ _l'oml deed ,huuld he rc11 arded 11 ith u-;cd tu mod it\ a noun t>r a 'l'rb .L
:l!lother _l'Pud d,~cd ... usuuc: e:.ar:'!H: I k ·, an out-and-out
;)saue exan;n/e:: I reall: .!pprc~,.:iatc :~HI liar'
he! pin~ me nH\\ e: .:,tc:rd;J). Siih'l' one
good turn deserves another. I'd Iii;,~
to gi,,~ you the"~ frc~c' airplane tic\.;d-; II>
Europe. over-and-over t'.IJ>. rc~peatcJiy.
trar.':i:'ar:·on I rca II; apprcL·iatc: tlll L/SU:/f 8Xi_1t!1!)/(.}.' I'\ C told ynu
helping m,~ mu1 e yc''tc:nbl. Sine,~ one over-and-over lO take~ Y''ur sho'~' off
good ,_k,·d -;\H>uld be 1\'\\ ankd 11 ith before 'ou walk lHl the IW\\ carpet.
:motlwr. I'd like to gi1c~ youtill'>c~ fr'~'~ :uns.:aun.-T ,.,,.wid yoliJ'c'pc~atcdly to
airplane~ tickeh to Europe. takl' \our -;hoe' off hd\ll"l' yl1ll walk t>n
tht~ nc~\\ carpet.
11/;\;li;),t,::a over-and-over again c.\ 1).

"Ontt's bark is worse than one's bite"
<'l'f'. ,aid of '"11\c'Ull<' \\ lw i, tilrc·atc'llill:.'.
hut Jlotcbng.eruLJ>.
!..:~~··?fl.~ e.\,··}/l".'(.)/t..: ()ur nc,,· hl'~' y. ji.-.. a p
lot but d,>n ·t ''on:. His bark is worse
than his bite.
!.':1.'''/iir:c•·: < lm nc'll h,,,, ,,·lh a i"' pad the bill (to)"'"~'- to add extra dwr?,.,
hut dt>n't 11·on'. H,··, t!Jr,~at.:nin" hut I<' a bill.
ill'l d\1!1f'.!L'rllll'.
r,·,ramant hill he·"' c.\j1eJhi'e·> I
\\ t>nder II the· "a iter padded the bill.
··outofsight, out of mind",'!' "Th:11 u;:.-::_,.',:!;u.•: H<>ll ct>uld thi' re,taur:u\1
'' l11c:h )llll d<>JJ.t ,,.,_ \ll\1 d•>n·t think bill he''' c.\j1clhi\;;·.' I "''ihkr il.thc
ah<>Llt. .. \\;!lll~r added c'\lr;J c·har"''' t<> !he hill.
I halc'll.t rc·n·i,,·d a
..-s::;)'": :-:u:·•;,.-;i:c
kttn fr!Jlll he'!' 111 <l\l.T l·,;ur llH>lllh, ;llld
pee·pee(togo) ,.,F it>rigi1dly h;tln tct!~
,h,··, 1111 h,·,t t'Ji,·nd' Out of sight, out
hut al'<>lhc'd ~11 _j,.,, h1 ;tdult'i t\l Llrl!Ltl'.
of mind.
·,,·,,;:· ':•.:·_·;·. I li:1., ,. to go pee-pee
· . i.':;-:,:;;·:.~·- lh~t\l'il.l r:..~,.:.._·i\i.:d ~~ L.:lh. 't
hl'i·~~rL' ,,\.~ k:t\l'.
l·n l!ll h;..'r in ( !\ ;,_•:· !"l ll\r 1111 Hlt!J:-. an\.J 'h~'.'
!ll) t·~~:'i fri;,_'Jld) I! l'nl n~tt inl·n,n! (li
her. ,iJ,' d,,,.,n·t tlnn~ <>I ;n,·. \\ ;,_' k~t\ l.'.
ping pong, '.f'· Lli•k· lc'Jlll" ,,,!_~,,·.:!!!:

out of this world (to be) , ,,, ,, , lx
tl;!lic'llt.ll·~ l•·r·l:thk tc·tt;lh '''I'"''''
. .- ..-- ·. ' : . I )\I \ l 'll h.; !•. ··.\
pi:" ping pong '
this world
j ), ~ . . ; !--. : l '· '·. \ ! • ';
310 GLOSSARY
I::Ili:i:J Ping Pong is a trademark and lranslatior~_: I think Steve is finally

shnuld he capitalized (although going to propose tonight!
oftentimes it is not).
"Practice makes perfect" exp. "You can

pitter-patter exp. noise made by anything only perfect your skills by practicing ...
that causes alternating tones (such as
usaqe example. You need to play the
rain. footsteps. etc.).
piano at least an hour evcrv dav.
usaqe example 1 love the Practice makes perfect.
pitter-patter of the rain.
trans/alton. You need to play the piano
translation: I love the sound the rain at least an hour every day. You can only
makes. perfect your skills by practicing.
pom-pom 11. a hall of wool. feathers. or

"Practice what you preach" exp. 'Take
strips of colored paper used as
the same advice you give others."
decoration and hy cheerleaders (also
spelled "pom-pon"). usaqe example. You always tell me
how ten-ible it is for pcoplc to lie. but
usaqe example: The cheerleaders were
today you lied to me' \\'hy don't you
waving their pom-poms as they
practice what you preach 1
cheered the soccer team.
lrans!JUOnc You always tell me how
translation: The cheerleaders were
ten-ibk it is for pcoplc to lie. but today
waving decorative balls of colored
you lied to me:! Why don't you take the
paper as they· cheered the soccer team.
same advice you give othcrs'
pooh-pooh (togo) n. (baby talk-

pronounced "POO-poo" with the prayer (not to have a) np. to h<l\ e no
emphasis on the first "pou ") to defecate. possibility of success in something.
ysa_ge example I think Tessa just usage example You don't have a
went pooh-pooh in her diapers. prayer of beating: Andy at chess.
translationc· I think Tessa just defecated uanslalion: You don't have any
in her diapers. possibility of beating Andy at chess.
t!!IlJ to pooh-pooh something e.\fJ. t;I:!I@''·'·A to have a (good] shot at
(pronounced "tJOo-POO .. with the something e.rp. to ha\e a [goodj
emphasis on the ~econd "poo ")to reject possibility at success in something.
something. usag_e_example Don't you think Dan
usage exam{)/~
The boss has a shot at getting the job·•
pooh-poohed my idea of hiring Steve. translalron: Don't you think Dan has a
J!ans!a{lon. The boss rejected my idea chance of getting the job')
of hiring Sten~.
pull some strings (to) np. to use one· s

pop the question (to) exp. to propose influence.
marriage. usaqe example I'll have to pull some
usa_qe_example. I thin!.. Steve is finally strings to get a rescrYation at this
going to pop the question tonight' restaurant with such short notice.
STREET TALK -3: fHE BEST OF N.~ERICAN IDIOMS 311
translation: !"II haw to usc my usage example. r:,erythin{.s

inlluencc to get a rescn·ation at this right-as-rain'
restaurant with such short notic,~.
translation E\cr:thin~·" g{lin~
perkctly i'int:~
pull someone's leg (to) np. to kit.!

someone: to tease.
rob the cradle (to) e rt'· ttl date' sc)lll~< ,n,
usay_e example You just found fin~
much younger than <•n~sc•lf. to he datin).'
hunt.lred dollars"? Arc you pulling my a .. baby ...
leg·•
0~ge exc;.~ep_:·~- K~lrcn ·, dah.· i~ ~Pun~
{rans!Jtlon: You just found fiye <:nough to be her son. She ccrtamh 1s
hundred dollars"? Arc you kidding me·• robbing the cradle~
uarl:jlat10n. Karen·' dah~ is' <lllll:,:

"Put 'em up!" np. .. Put them up' .. t?llllllgh to be' ill'r ;on. Slw ccrtctinh 1s
I, t•liJo9 In this expression. ·clll (shnl1 dating SOillClllll' muc·h youn~~c·r'
for ..them .. ) refers tP .. the hands ...
li(•n JQB This expression may also he
used by police officers.
lfJJ;)I;it\•L ij "Stick ·em up! .. e.rp.
DID stick up np.
s
sameold-sameold nv ,a me~'~' ttsu:d.
usa_(j'~.:_~:~;-unple_ ··H~)w· :-. c' ~r: thing
R going.·_y·
.. Same old, same old ...
R-and-R exv (uriginally militar;. lingo! tuJns:'a!uJn .. litn\ ·' . . ~, L'r: tlnn~ ?t nn~ ·) ..
rest and recreation (or rest and .. Same' as ttsual. ..
relaxation).
usage example.· J",e been ,,·orking
second wind (to get one's) ''I/' 11' gc·t .i
hard. I need some R-and-R.
'l'l't>nd hurst of Cllc'r~~\
!ranslat1on. J"ye been ,,·nrking liard.
.~:.:.:.r..~··oe e\.:r;::):'e f)urill~ tih' r~h..·l·.
need some r6t and recTt:ation.
startl'd gc·tting tirc'd aftn :tht>lll Jj,,·
l:l!III The ,~,pre"ion .. R IIIIi! R · 1s 1ninutc's. Then ali <>I a -.u.Jd,·n. I .~<•1 my
a[\,·a;. s pronounced R ·n R.
second wind d!ld '"'11 tlte· race··
!.'-,i:·.<c_.:f:ut· Dunn~ tlh· r~t~..:;..· I -.t~tn;..·d
riff-raff e.\p. dishonorable people. ~L'tllll~ tir~..·d ~tflL't ~~~-..~~~~tIt\<..' n;inu:~._-,
usage exarnnie. 'r'ot: likc·th,·sc' pc·••plc .' Th:...·n ~til•_,( ~~ -..udd . . ·tL I ~1.1l .1 ,~,._-.._t1Jhl
They're 1wthing hut riff-raff~ hurst , >I e~llc'rg\ :tlhi 1\ '>II the· r.'" c'.
irans!uuon You liJ...c th.:sc pc·"pJc·•
They're all total!;. tbhon:>rahk.
see-sawn \ l<·ne·:t~i•llt:d
··"'' i,·,· ,,n \\ !<1 •. 11
l\\t) ~.._·hild11.."11. 'L'~Ih.'d ~~~
t'PI'\''ik ._'\h.!' •'~
right-as-rain "'I'· pcrfcc:ll;. line <ttsc·d ,•n h a IPil)! plan!.. h;tla<k'•.'d 111 the· tnl<l,!l,·.
h\ nati\cs "!'the slllltilc'm pan ,.t.t!J,· ~dll'rll~ih.:l: nJl· ;q' .tlh! .J(\\'.11 ,!, ,.' .. 11.:lt
l·.s 1. i...'\\.'i 1' ~\I' ·h·~'! \\ ·~'1.-:.: ht
312 GLOSSARY
usag_~ ex_f!mple: Let's go play on the shut up (to) inte1j. to stop talking.
see-saw! l!.Si!Y.f!..fJ...Xi!_'!}f}f!!~ If you don't shut up,
fi'•.'r•J!H.',ij teeter-totter 11. I'll kill you!
translation: If you don't stop talking,
"Seeing is believing" exp. 'Til believe it I' II kill you!
when l see it." l:t:!Iill The expression "Shut up.'" is
considered rather coarse. The polite form
usage_e_xamp!e: I didn't believe you
-.vould be "Please he quiet."
were an acrobat but seeing is believing~
l!anslation: I didn't believe you were
an acrobat but now that I've seen you "Shut up!" interj. ''Stop talking!"
pe1t'orm. I believe it! usage example: Shut up or I'll shoot!
translation: Stop talking or I'll shoot!
serve someone right (to) exp. to suffer l:t:!Iill This expression may also be
the consequences that one deserves. used by criminals.
usage example: The school isn't going

to let Jennifer graduate because she was sing-song exp. alternating up and do\vn in
caught cheating on her final exam. It pitch.
serves her right! usage example: Italian and Chinese
lranslalron: The school isn't going to arc very sing-song languages.
let Jennifer graduate because she was translation: Italian and Chinese are
caught cheating on her final exam. very musical languages.
She·, getting \vhat she deserves~
sleep a wink (not to) exp. not to sleep at

ship-shape exp. \'ery orderly and clean all.
(originally a nautical term).
!~?_g_e_.e~a_mple I didn't sleep a wink
usaqe example: Your house is really last night.
ship-shape. My house is always so
!!_ansliltion: I didn't sleep at all last
messy.
night.
tmnsliilion: Your house is really
orderly and clean. l'v1y house is always
so messy. sleep like a log (to) exp. to sleep soundly.
us'!_g_e__e_xampfe, I slept like a log last
night.
show one's true colors (to) exp. to reYeal
one· s true personality. t!.aJ}~!'!!iOrJ_: I slept soundly last night.
usage example: \Ve all thought Cathy

was a timid person but when she sm·ed so-and-so exp. • 1. a replacement for the
a child from a burning building. she name of a person; someone • 2. a
showed her true colors. euphemistic replacement for any vulgar
translation: Vv'e all thought Cathy was a or obscene noun pertaining to a person.
timid person but when she saved a child usage exa'!JJZ!e: What would you do if
from a burning building. she showed so-and-so approached you and
her true personality. demanded all your money?
STREET TALK -3: 7 H BESf OF ,-\tv',::RJ(.A.f'-1 lli0~.'1.S 313
zrar,s/iNmn. What would \OU J\, if uansfat.'on l.ic nn th~..· grt 'LIIld <tth..i
someone apJX\l<tChfd you and spread ynur anlb and lc_\:' 'if'c>rt'
dernande~d all : nur mone: '.' ~ In th1:-. cxpr~~:-. . . i< '!l. ·· ·oi.r ·· rl·;'~..·r,
I:IlJI! The e.\pn'''ion ".lchlnd-."'" ;, to "tiKm" meanint' "th,· •u·11b dlld i,-~,---
ah\·a~~ prl'l1l1Ul1ccd ,,,_ ·n 'U.
startfromsquareone(to), ,,._. t<· ,:.n;

so-so np. neither ,.,,r, !!ood nnr ,-en had. from thL 'en beginnint'.
pa,-,ablc. ~!_~_:.~ge r.:..:_'<j!J!!J?!FJ Tlh'r..' _:i;.: 'l'i"lii.. 1'·.·:·!,
05_age e:ii!i~'Pie? ··H()\\ did 'out _job ot ~our,toty that I don't und,·t,t.•nd.
intenie11 f'-O_, .. Start from square one.
--so-so.-- translal on Then. ~ at\~ ;-.; ·,:11 .. · p:n·:" , )t
!ransiarron "l!o\\ did yolll _iPb your stor: thdt I don t undc-r,t:llld Stc<n
intn1·icw go':'" from the lKgtntHng_
"It wa' pa,,abk.--
"Stay down!" nv "Sta: "' :lw gn >unci, ..

spic-and-span nv e.xtr,~meh ckan.
u~aqe !}_Xi1rri_[}j!}___ We ha1e l<l get the·

hmN~ spic-and-span before my
"Step oudda the vehicle" nr. --c,·t ,>ut
of the car ·
relati\\~s come to' i'it.
~ ·outtu" lpr<>IH>Uih'l~d "uu.!u',;'
translatron We have to get the hou,,~ j, a common !cductiou ,,J "ll\lt :>J' ..
compktc:ly clean be fort: my rclati1 c'
come 111 ,-,sit.
stick-up nt'· rnhbc1: _
~!5_aq:~- exan~:~~~~- Dld ~ llll !lt·ar ~~b;.,llt !lh:
spitting image of someone (to be the)
stick up at tlh' b,mh \1 >d::1 '
ext'· to be identical t\l 'omc·onc.
transiat,or: Did you ht~~~~ ~dltllllth.:
usay_e exa~npie_ She·, the spitting
n>hbery at the l_,anh tod,1: '
image of her moth,~r.
t::IiJI Thi:-.t'\ptc,,iPn \\-~1" nrig!n.1k·d
rr-anslauon· She luoks _ju,tlikc her
'incc 1ictim' arc· made to .. ,ric.Z llf' ..
mother. their •u·nb dunn!! :1 n>bhe~n t<> 'h'l\\ thai
c::::u::iJI
Thi, e\pn.:"ion is C\llllll10nl: tht....'\ at\~ Jll)t carry111~ \\~.,.~;_lP''~"~'·
pn,nounccd "In hl' lhc '('if ·n in1ut:,t of
.\t}/Jl('()Jl(.
a
l?tl;ll.!,:,; to be the spit and image such-and-such,, l'- 11<>t 'c:t de·t,~tlntn<~,l.
of someone np. :.;:o:aqe;,-.:;;..-~p.ie \\·,. ·11 all ll1e'L't
usage c:~a.n~n-'e l-Ie·, the· spit and wmot-r"" <~t such-and-such" titnL·
image nf hi, father. !IU:'~S/8~:():: \\·l~-\1 ;.\1! 111Cl.'t {l)I1H'1TP\\ ;:l
'r; ..-.~s'ai'ot: I k luoh' Jll't Iil--L' hi' father. a tinw t" he· dL'tl'r!llllll'd l.tkr.
spread them (to) ext'- t<> 'JlrL·ad apart suspect n , nc: 1\11<' ,, und,·r 'li'i"'·inn. >!
u111...' ·" ann:-- and k~-... ha1 int' L'IHlil11it·.cd :; , I'll lie'
spread 'em' suspect.

314 GLOSSARY
translation: You are the person that we translation. He just insulted you. Art>
most <.uspect of ha\'ing committed the you going to accept that passively·)
crime.
talk someone into something {to) np.

to con\'ince someone to do something.
usa,qe example.· t-.·1ichelle said she
T didn't want to go with us to the movies.
\Vhy don't you try and talk her into it'1
ta-ta np. (pronounced "ta-TA" with the I just know she'd haYe a good time.
emphasis on the second "ta") good-bye. translaflon. Michelle said she didn't
usage example,· Sec you tomorrow. want to go with us to the mo\'ies. Why
Ta-ta! don't you try to convince her'' I just
know she'd have a good time.
translation. See you tomorrow.
Good-bye!
talk someone out of something {to)
nv to convince .someone not to do
take someone in {to) exp. to take
something.
someone to the police station for
usage exarnple: I was going to accept
processing.
the job position of manager. but Earl
~'>ag_e example_;, Let's take 'im in.
talked me out of it. He said it would
translation. Let's take him to the police be too much work and long hours.
station and process him. tmnsfat1on: I was going to accept the
job position of manager. but Earl
con\'inccd me not to accept it. He said it
take something in stride {to) exp. to
would be too much work and long
accept something without getting upset.
hours.
usaqe exa_!!7ple: She didn't seem too
upset when her house burned down.
She certainly took it in stride. tee-tee{togo) cw (baby talk) to urinate.
translatJO(I She didn't seem too upset Y:_'>ag_e examplE:[_ Do you have io go
when her house burned down. She tee-tee·?
certainly accepted it without getting translation: Do you ha\'c to go urinate'.'
upset.
fjf:!•:a,,•,a to let it slide e.IJI.
tete-a-tete !!Xp. (French 1 a private
usage example Don't get so angry'
con\ersation between two people.
Just let it slide.
usa_qe exi]mple The boss is having a
translat1o.n.· Don't get so angry' Just
tete-a-tete with Richard. Do you think
a<.:cept it without getting up-;et'
he's going to get fired''
trans/a[ion The hos:-:. i~ ha,·ing a
take something lying down {to) e.\f!. to pri\'atc coil\ ersation with Richard. Do
acct>pt something passi,ely. }OU think he's going to get fired''
usage exarnple.· He just in~ulted you. I:I!IiJI This expression comes from
Arc you i'(>ing to take that lying french meaning a "head-to-head." In
down·> France. the pronunciation is "tet-a-!er. ··
STREET TALK -3: THE BESf Ot AMERICAN IDIOMS 315
Howe\ er in,\rnerica. it is commonly the last straw (to be) c.rp. ro be all one
pronounced "Jute-a-rare ... can tolerate.
ysuge example. Our next door
neighbors ha1·e been playing loud mu,;ic
"That does it!" e.1p. ··That·' all I can
since midnight. :.lm1· they're throwing
tolerate, ..
empty bottles in our backyard' That's
uSafE_exampjr~ That does it' If you the last straw. I'm calling the police.
el·cT bon\111 anything from mc again
11ithout asking. you're in big troubk~
tmnslatron.· Our next door neighbors
ha1·c been playing loud music since
lranslatron.· That's all I can tolerate! If midnight. Now they're throwing empty
you eYer borrow anything from me bottles in our backyard~ That's all I'm
again 11 ithout asking. you're in big going w tolerate. I'm calling the police.
trouble!
l'l;ljlljil!o@ to be the straw that
fi'•,'[•l.'w.a "That tears it!" np. broke the camel's back np.
~j!iilpe exampi~That tears it' If the
boss doesn't giw me a raise. I'm
quitting' "The more the merrier" c.rp. "The more
translatiOn.· That's 11:i I can tolcratc' If people involved in a particular activity.
--- the more fun it will be."
the boss doesn't .;<11·e me a raise. I'm
4uiuing~ usage example. Why don't you join us
;;-n~r picnicU1da;/? The more the
merrier'
"That's out of the question!" exp. "There
lranslation. Why don ·r you join us on
is absolutely no way that II' ill bc
our picnic today'' The more people
coJhidered'"
involved. the more fun it will be!
usage example. '{ou want to bo1Tow
;;:.y caNoh:tt~fertilizcr'? That· s out of
the question' "The shoe's on the other foot" e.\p. ·'The
~'Jr!slauon;_ You want to borrow Ill)' car situation is reversed" (said when
to haul fertili~:er'.' There's absolutely no someone is forced to sutTer the same
way I'd consickr that' situation that he/she has caused
someone else to experience).
usage example. David's horrible old
"The early bird gets the worm" cw b;JSs is now David's employee~
·The person who begins his/her work Suddenly the shoe is on the other
the earliest gets all the opportunities and foot.
the most accomplished ...
translatior'. Da\'id · s horrible old boss is
usaoe examoie. I li~e to Qct to work nm~a1·i~l's employee: Suddenly the
l1ef~;re an> one dsc. The e~rly bird gets situation is re1·ersed.
the worm.
rransiur;on I Iike~ w g.:t to Wi>rk before
~rn: one L'he. The pers\>11 11·ho begilb "There are plenty of other fish in the
his/her" nrk the c':trlic·st gc·h tile nl\Jst sea" ny "There arc many other
ctc'C<>nlplished. upportunities in thl' \1 orld ...
l'f.l ii r ! , :.;;a The early bird catches :.:,\i}Jjt?_f::~:z?~:'i(J!!:___ HL···"' alwa~ .-. . ~o rnean
the worm nt'· t'' >\lU. \\'h> U\>n 't 1·ou g1> find Sl>mconc
316 GLOSSARY
else'! There are plenty of other fish in through a/the wringer (to put someone}
the sea. exp. to put someone through a strer~uous
and emotional experience.
t'anslation · He's always so mean to
you. Why don "t you go find someone usage example: Why didn"t you cali tu
else? There are many other tell me you were going to be three
opportunities for you to meet someone. hours late coming home" I '-'- <~> ,.-,
worried. You really put m2 t!m•;.:g1;;;;:
wringer'
"There's more than one way to skin a t1an;,latton. \Vhy dl(ln t you call to tell
cat" exp. "There are many ways to me you were going to be three houn,
achieve one's goal:'' ''There arc lots of late coming home? I was so wo1Tied.
right ways to do something:· You really caused me a great deal of
emotional turmoil!
usage ~~<JmplfJ.. If you can't resolve
your problem the first time, try another I:I!IJll In the early days of wa~hing
way. Remember, there's more than machines, it was common to put the
one way to skin a cat. laundry through a device knov.'n as a
''lvringer" before hanging the clothing
t(aDslation: If you can't resolve your outside to dry. This device was
problem the first time. try another way. comprised of two rollers between which
Remember, there are many ways to the ~:kthing was pressed. squeezing out
achieve one's goal. any excess water. The abo> to ...... prr~sion,
depicts someone who is emotiOnally
drained or "squeez.ed" dry.
"There's no·accounting for taste" exp.
'There is no explanation for people's
likes and dislikes. tick-tock exp. the sound made by a clock
usage examp_0: Do you believe that (usua11y a pendulum clock).
Mike bought that horrible painting? usage example: The sound of my
One thing's for sure. There's no clock going tick·tock kept me awake all
accounting for taste. night.
_tra_r:slation,· Do you believe that Mike ttanslation: The sound of my clock

bought that horrible painting? One ticking kept me awake all night.
thing's for sure. There is no explanation
for people's likes and dislikes. tick-tocking exp.
usage example: Do you hear that
tick-locking coming from your
through-and-through exp. in every neighbor's house'?
respect. completely.
translation: Do you hear that ticking
usage ex?_fT]p_~e_: Kim's an actress sound coming from your neighbor's
through-and-through. She was in her house?
first play at age five and still loves the
theater.
translation: Kim's an actress in every tie the knot (to) exp. to get married.
respect. She was in her first play at age usage example: Nancy and Dominic
five and. still loves the theater. are going to tie the knot next week.
STREET TALK -3: THE BESi OF -'\,\\ERIU\N :D!()r,•,s 317
[rar . . slar:nn · I\'anc) and Dominic arc tom-tom I.!Xf'· a -.mall drum hcatc11 \\·ith
goin& to get marri.:d nc:\t '' cek. the hanck
fi! :.::u.·.a to get hitched np. •tlitl: parc~nh ga\ c Ill\
:;sage ex._arn;J!e.:.. \!y
to tie together. littk brother a 'ct of tom-toms for hi,
usaqe exarnr!}£_ I'm getting hitched birthday. He play-. them all day long:
IOI\l()ITD\\. ~
I!DnslJ/Dn· \h parents ga\e my little
translation I'n1 getting 1narrkd brother a set of small drums for lw;
tOillOITOW' birthday. He pla)' thc:m all Jay long'
tip-top np. the high6t dcgrcc of tum-tum nJI. (baby tall; 1 'tomach.
excelknce. usage exarr:oie You ate' lots of icc
U~J]eexample I f..:cl tip-top today. LTt:am tolla). J..; your tum-tum full'.'
l!ans!auon. I kel in th..: most e:-..c.:llem transla!IOn.· You ak lots of icc cream
health wday. today. b your stomach full'?
turn over a new leaf (to) 1'\f'· tn change

"To kill two birds with one stone" ext'·
one· s bad habits .
..To uccomplish t,,·o goals in one dc..:d.''
!!saqe exam,nie As tl'ual. 1 overate
ij~">il[@_f:Xamnle_c
I haw tlltakc my
and 110w I feel sick. Starting tOJllOIT0\1.
si,ter to the airport by 2:00pm and pick
I'm turning over a new leaf.
up a friend at 3:00pm. This will he easy.
I'll be abk to kill two birds with one rranslatmn
-- · - ·-
As usual. I overate and
stone. 110\\ I feel sick. Starting tomorrow. I'm
giving up my had habits.
!!Jlns!auonc I ha\\: to take my sister to
tilL' airport by 2:00pm and pick up a
friend at 3:00pm. This will be easy. I'll two-by-two nv one person JK>;t to the
be ahk to accomplish twu goals at th..: other.
same time. usage exarrJJ!!! I want you all w form
a line two-by-two.
"To make a long story short ... " e.1p. .. In !.1ansiauon I "ant: ou all to form a
summary .. line one p~IV11111C:\t to the other.
~'§ays ex<.H'ifJiec To make a long story

fjg.'(•l:,~,' aside-by-side e.\p.
short. .kll i, tal;ing me to france nc:\t
month~
uanslauo.•o_
lllc' IP Franc·c~
In ,umnwr' _Jeff i' taking
ne.\1 nh,llth~
u
unable to make heads or tails [out] of
toe-to-toe(togo} <'.\/'-I<' debate· ur someone or something (to be) elf'- tn
._.·lnnpctc.
be' U11~thk tP lll:IKc' 'e'ihC of '\llllCOllC llr
:1.'.'1-'_if: ""-'·'"'::--e .fpc ~tnd .·\nn went toe '''llldhing.
to toe nnth~,.' i''liL~ lll.\\t'll1L'll·, ri~ht:--.
~;s119~~ p:~ d.'~~:)/~ St ~111\..~ti lHl'' \ L1rl-. i' _....~_!
.1\~~· ~u~d .\nr: do...·h:ttcd tlh.· nice and <1lhc'r time·, he··, 'ona't'·- I _iu't
:''Lh.: \1(\'.~'ll!cn·, 11~ht'. c~1n·t make heads or tails [out] of hin1
318 GLOSSARY
translation: Sometimes Mark is so nice tmnslatJon: Your mother went hiking

and other times he's so nasty. I just with you·: She must have lots of energy.
can't make sense of him.
up-and-up {to be on the) exp. to be

candid and honest. w
1!.~'!.913_ exf_'lmpl~ Do you think that
politician is on the up-and-up'?
walk arm in arm (to) e.tp. to walk with
translatiOn: Do you think that politician one· s arm curled through someone
is candid and honest'' else· s arm: arrns linked or intertwined.
usage example. I think they're best
friends. They always walk arm in arm
v everywhere they go.

translation: I think they're best friends.
They always walk with their arms
vanish into thin air {to) np. to disappear linked.
completely. C!Iill SEE: 11 CLOSER LOOK: More
usage examp}!3 I was speaking with an Repeating Words. p. 198
elderly woman and turned away for just
a few seconds. \Vhen I turned back. she
had vanished into thin air' waste someone {to) exp. to kill someone.
translation. I v..-as speaking with an usage example.· If you don't hand over
elderly woman and turned away for just your money right now. I'm gonna
a few seconds. When I turned back. she waste you'
had completely disappeared! translation: If you don· t surrender your
money right now, I'm going to kill you!
"Variety is the spice of life" exp. C!Iill .. C01ma" is a common
''People's differences make the world reduction for "going to ...
interesting.
u_sagy: exafl}_[ij~ l'vly new roommate "We'll cross that bridge when we come
and I are so different. I hope we don't
to it" exp. "\Vc'll face that problem
have any problems living together. I
when it arises ...
just have to remember that variety is
usaqe example: '·I'm so nervous about
the spice of life.
my singing audition. What' I! I do if
translatio!l.:· My new roommate and I they ask me to sing something I don· t
are so different. I hope we don't have know?"
any problems living together. I just "You'll cross that bridge when you
have to remember that people's come to it''
differences make the world interesting.
translation: ''I'm so nervous about my
singing audition. What' II I do if they
vim-and-vigor np. energy. stamina. ask me to sing something I don't
~? exa_mple: Your mother went know·)"
hiking with you·> She must have lots of "You'll face that problem when it
vim-and-vigor. anses.
111;1;11 hrrl!!l "We'll cross that bridge usage example: I got invited to ten
when we get to it" e.\fJ. parties tonight~ When it rains, it pours~
trans~af!On· I got invited to ten panics
"We've got you covered" e.1p. ··v·/e"re tonight' When an e1·cnt occurs. it
aiming: our guns at you ... occurs with great intensity!
y~C}ge
example: Surrender. We've got 111; ljll;i w:: !I "It never rains, but it
you covered! pours" np.
translation: Surrender. We're aiming:

our guns at you. "When the eat's away, the mice will
I:IliDI to cover someone e.rp. 1. to play" e.rp. "When the authorities arc
aim a gun at someone • 2. to protect gone. mischief begins."
someone by using a gun. usage f!!_C]mple.:.· As soon as we left th~
usage example: SwTender. We've got house. our children inYitcd their friends
you covered~ over for a v.-"ild party. When the eat's
away, the mice will play.
translation: SwTender. We're aiming:
our guns at you! lranslatkm: As soon as we left ihc
I:Jliii The differen<:e between house. our children inl"ited their friends
definitions 1. and 2. depends on the over for a wild party. \Vhcn th~
context authorities arc gone. mischief begins.
"What gives?" e.rp. ""\\/hat's happening:?'" ''Where there's a will, there's a way"
e.rp. ··If something is desired enough. a
usage example_~ You all look so sad.
means will be found to <tchiel e it ..
What gives?
usage example· "How will I eYer gel
translation: You all look so sad. enough money to go to Hawaii"! ..
What"s happening? ··where there's a will, therq,'~ ~ w~y:·
tt8n!!'atiQIL "How will I c1·er get

"When in Rome, do as the Romans enough money to go to Hawaii·.'··
[do)" e.\fJ. ""One must adopt the habits ""If you want it badly enough. ~ ou"ll
of the local people ... find a way:·
usage exampje: I ate raw fish when I
went to Japan. I figured "when in
Rome, do as the Romans [do):·
y
uanslalion: I ate raw fish when I went
to Japan. I figured when you traYel.
pra<:ti<:e the same customs as the nati 1·cs. yick-yack e.rJ'· to talk ''r cilatit:r
111;\;H;J,(.);b This expression n1ay mcaning:lcssl>.
simply be shonened to: "When in us:a~_!}xample E1..:r> time I,<'<' Jim.
Rome" since the rest of the expression is all ht' ..:1 ~r doc' j, yick-yack'
merely inferred.
rr,1nsiatwn ber> tilllt' I '''C Jim. ali hc>
e1·cr do6 i' talk and talk ahnut ll<lthin)'~
"When it rains, it pours" e.1p. "When an l't ';h.\.r.::coa yickety-yack ('.\"f1.
c1·cm occur,. it <K"Curs with great
intensity or frequcnc~ :·
'''·'i'''''
l'l \;l
:.:.•coa yackety-yack ( x1>.
f \' :.; 'IQB yack-yack <'-'"/'
320 GLOSSARY
"You can't judge a book by its cover" "It's difficult to break an old pattern of
e.\/J. ··You can't judge something by behavior."
how it looks on the outside."' usage example: I'm seventy years old
usage example: I thought Beth was so and I'm never going to be able to learn
nice at first. She looked so sweet and to use a computer. r m afraid you can't
friendly. Then I discovered she's teach an old dog new tricks.
actually insensitive. mean, and jealous. translation: r m seventy years old and
One thing's for sure. You can't judge a I'm never going to be able to learn to
book by its cover. usc a computer. I'm afraid you can't
teach old people new skills.
translatton: I thought Beth was so nice
at first. She looked so sweet and
friendly. Then I discovered she's yumyum exp. used to indicate t.hat
actually insensitive, mean, and jealous. something is delicious.
One thing's for sure. You can't judge usage example: "Would you like a
something by how it looks from the piece of chocolate cake?"
outside. ·'Yum yum! I Jove chocolate cake!''
translation. ''Would you like a piece of
chocolate cake'?"
"YHu can't teach an old dog new tricks" "That sounds delicious! I love chocolate
CXf!. ''Old people can't learn new skill-;;'' cake!··

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tff;T'- ~'#_<'"~i~~;~-~:

. - ... · ;:,.--;..:~ ,.....- ..• , ~t~'-

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Library of Congress Preassigned Catalog Card !\umber: 93-84787

In short. idioms are simply an imaginative and expressive way to communicate an

STREET TALK -3 is a self-teaching guide made up offow1een chapters, each divided

• PRACTICE THE VOCABULARY

• DICTATION (Test your oral comprehension)

useful information about

bracketed words in the main entry

an equivalent term or L-----£D:::t!I:Ii;:JI

a term or expression opposite

a common variation of the main

Review Exam for Lessons 1-5 77

Dialogues ...... . .102

Dialogues ...... . 118

Dialogues ...... . 148

Review Exam for Lessons 6-10 161

Lesson 12- Repeating Words 185

Lesson 14 - Survival Words & Phrases 233

:Review Exani for Lessons 11-14 253

~·APPENDIX· (Dictation) "_ .275:

\. ·,.'. ' . . . ~" - . "·' -.-- .... . 283

Bernie was always hoping for a "fair shake."

I'm sure they'll ''give

Debbie and Valerie are at an audition for the school musical.

Debbie: That does it! I'm leaving. I don't have a prayer.

Debbie and Valerie are at an audition for the school musical.

I'm sher they'll ''give

break out in a cold sweat (to) exp. to begin perspiring suddenly

get a hold of oneself (to) exp. to get control of one's emotions.

translation.· Get control of your emotions! I've never seen you so

usage example (2): Bernie was always a well respected

I think Earl has finally gone "off the deep end."

prayer (not to have a) exp. to have no possibility of success in

usage example (2).' I don't have a prayer of passing my geometry test

talk someone into something (to) exp. to convince someone to

translation: Michelle said she didn't want tp go with us to the

''That does it!•• exp. "That's all I can tolerate!"

Practice The Vocabulary

A. Choose the correct phrase that best completes the

2. Helen went off the deep end when ...

3. I didn't get a fair shake at the job interview...

4. Bill can't carry a tune...

5. I broke out in a cold sweat when ...

6. You don't have a prayer of winning the lottery...

7. That does it! ...

8. I feel like I've been put through a wringer ...

01. You're going to ask Kim A. You're really blowing this

02. When Bob went to apply

03. You want Janet to join our

04. I know you want me to

Os. I had a very hard day. E. I don't think he was given a

06. When Susan's cat died, she

07. I can't believe how angry

Os. Is he making personal H. You don't have a prayer.

D. Complete the dialogue using the appropriate idioms

screaming at everyone all day. It's not like you to

Greg: I know you must think I'm blowing everything

--'-!!3~----------------- but I wasn't