Glossary for Idiomatic English |
Word |
Meaning |
Example |
Extra Info. |
a big deal
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a big deal - something serious or important - usually in the negative - |
Sorry, I spilled some water on your shoe. Hey, it's no big deal, don't worry about it. |
|
a fair crack of the whip
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a fair crack of the whip - fair conditions or opportunity |
Some of the junior staff feel they are not being given a fair crack of the whip. |
|
a piece of cake
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a piece of cake - something very easy |
Do you think you can manage to finish that assignment? No problem, it's a piece of cake. |
As easy as eating a piece of cake |
a real jerk
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
jerk - unpleasant or stupid person |
Nobody want to employ him, he's such a jerk. |
|
a rip off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a rip off - poor value |
The holiday package was a real rip-off - we paid five star prices for two star accommodation. |
|
aftershocks
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the aftershocks - events happening afterwards - metaphor based on earthquake activity |
They have come to accept his resignation, but the aftershocks will be felt for some time. |
|
all that stuff
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
all that stuff - that kind of thing (informal) |
Don't expect clean sheets, hot water and all that stuff, it's a prison camp. |
|
at a loose end
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
at a loose end - having nothing to do |
If you are at a loose end, why not come over for a meal sometime? |
|
at the bottom of the heap
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the bottom of the heap - the lowest social class |
They have been at the bottom of the social heap for so long that many lack the will-power to try to change. |
|
back to the brink
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the brink - the verge of death or extinction |
The board had a special meeting to consider some drastic measures to pull the company back from the brink of bankruptcy. |
|
backlash
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
backlash - reaction, usually sever |
At first everyone was sympathetic to the immigrants, but as the crime rate rose, the expected backlash occurred. |
|
belt-tightening
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to tighten your belt - to suffer austerity or hardship by avoiding spending |
During the economic downturn, we will have to tighten our belts just like the private sector. |
Compared to someone dieting, tightening their belt to that smaller clothes will fit the body. |
belting
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
belting - assaulting |
If your Dad finds out you'll get a good belting. |
|
bleak times
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
bleak times - times of difficulty or economic hardship |
|
|
blossoming
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to blossom - be become popular or fashionable (metaphor) |
After a slow start she blossomed into a fine young lawyer. |
|
bone of contention
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
bone of contention - a subject of dispute |
The ownership of the property had been a bone of contention for nearly a hundred years. |
Like tow dogs fighting over a bone |
boom
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
boom - period of growth (metaphor) |
There is likely to be a boom in the building industry in the next couple of years. |
|
bottom line
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the bottom line - a summary of profit or loss, the net result |
You have been doing a good job, but the bottom line is that we can no longer afford your services. |
Refers to the bottom line of a trading or company account |
bowl of cherries
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a bowl of cherries - an easy life |
We had to work very hard at the camp, you know, it was no bowl of cherries. |
|
brushed off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to brush off - to dismiss |
He brushed off accusations of corruption, and offered a full inspection of his accounts and records. |
|
bust-up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
bust-up - argument |
In his defence, he said he had had a bust-up with his wife and was feeling depressed. |
|
by and large
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
By and large - generally, usually. |
By and large, snakes will not harm you if you do not disturb them. |
This is typical of many idioms where familiar words are used together in a special way which makes no apparent sense - you just have to know what the combination of words means. |
call for
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to call for - to indicate |
The upsurge in crime calls for some tough decisions by the police commissioner. |
|
catch up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
catch up - meet again |
I can't make it for lunch today - maybe we can catch up next week some time. |
|
cheating on each other
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
cheating on each other - being unfaithful |
I know I can trust him - he'd never cheat on me with other women. |
|
chewing over
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
chewing over - consider |
The boss is still chewing over your proposal. Maybe there will be a decision in a couple of days. |
|
chomping at the bit
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
chomping at the bit - eager to get started |
They were chomping at the bit, keen to get a chance to get revenge for their defeat earlier in the season. |
This is comparing someone to a horse before a race biting ("chomping") the iron bar nbetween its teeth (the "bit") |
chucked a mental
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to chuck a mental - to get angry or abusive (Australian slang) |
Your Mum's gong to chuck a mental when she sees the mess in here. |
|
come to light
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
come to light - emerge, be discovered |
It has since come to light that he was responsible for many other robberies in the previous year. |
|
coming on to you a bit strong
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to come on strong - to be offensive or objectionable (Australian slang) |
The salesman was coming on a bit strong, so I walked out. |
|
cool
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
cool - nice, interesting etc. |
The latest video game was really cool. |
|
cornucopia
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
cornucopia - a place or period of plentiful supply |
The mine raised huge expectations, but as the years of zero profit went by, it was slowly realised that it was not the cornucopia it had been made out to be. |
A classical refernce to a "horn of plenty" full of good things |
cracks him up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
cracks him up - he thinks it is really funny (US slang) |
He's so funny, he really cracks me up. |
|
crashes
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
crash - sudden loss of value (metaphor) |
Several people jumped to their deaths as the extent of the stock market crash became apparent. |
|
crunch champion's league match
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a crunch (match etc) an important or crucial encounter. |
Arsenal have to play a number of domestic games before their crunch match with AC Milan which could decide the championship. |
Related to another idiom "when it comes to the crunch" = in the final analysis |
deal with
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to deal with - to successfully do something |
As well as forest fires and drought, the residents now had to deal with an plague of rats. |
|
did not take kindly
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
Did not take kindly to - reacted unfavourably |
The lion did not take kindly to being poked with a stick, and let out a loud roar. |
|
do the trick
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to do the trick - to achieve the aim |
The engine doesn't usually start first time, but if you keep on pulling the starter that usually does the trick. |
|
don't hold your breath
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
don't hold your breath - indicates it might be a long time |
I'll get the report finished soon, but don't hold your breath. |
|
down the gurgler
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
down the gurgler - spoiled or destroyed |
|
|
down under
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
Down Under - Australia |
Next time you are Down Under, don't forget to come and see us in Perth. |
Australia is typically on the bottom half of world maps or globes. In Australia you can buy maps or globes which reverses the normal order, and shows Australia at the top. |
drags on
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to drag on - to continue for a long time |
|
|
face to face
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
face to face - in person, rather than at a distance |
It's hard to say some of these things in a letter - I'd prefer to discuss them face to face. |
|
facing hard times
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
hard times - economic difficulty |
It's sad to see someone like that falling on hard times. |
|
fallen off the wagon
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to fall off the wagon - to fail in an attempt to stop drinking, smoking etc. |
|
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fat cats
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
fat cats - someone rich or powerful (derogatory) |
The party was pushing for the rights of the common working people and fewer privileges for the fat cats of commerce and industry. |
|
fill them in
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to fill someone in - to inform |
Can you fill me in on the latest developments? |
|
flat out like a lizard drinking
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
flat out like a lizard drinking - very busy (Australian slang) |
I can't make it to the party tonight, I'm flat out like lizard drinking trying to finish my assignments. |
|
freaking out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to freak out - to become temporarily mentally unbalanced |
The boss'll freak out if he finds out you haven't even started on it yet! |
|
free-for-all
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a free-for-all - a situation out of control |
The careful controls built up over a decade rapidly degenrated into a free-for-all. |
|
g'day
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
G'Day - typical Australian greeting |
|
|
get my act together
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to get your act together - to make urgent preparations |
Come on, get your act together. We have to be at the airport in an hour. |
|
get off on horse-riding
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to get off on something - to enjoy very much (US slang) |
He's really quite a sadistic person. He gets off on watching other people suffering. |
|
get out of hand
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
out of hand - uncontrolled |
The removal of chairs from the committee rooms is getting out of hand - please note that movement of furniture is no longer permitted. |
|
get shafted
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
get shafted - be a victim |
While the management did not feel the effects of the restructuring, the lower paid workers really got shafted. |
|
getting one up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
getting one up on someone - to try to be better that someone |
Wealthy residents have been trying to get one up on their neighbours by purchasing more and more powerful satellite TV receivers. |
|
giant
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
giant - a leading figure or organisation |
'One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind' - Neil Armstrong landing on the moon. |
|
give me a break
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
Give me a break! Be serious, don't be ridiculous etc. (US slang) |
Do you think I'm going to pay for all of this? Give me a break! |
|
give up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to give up - to abandon an attempt |
|
|
given a raw deal
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
given a raw deal - discriminated against or given poor conditions |
The striking firemen say that they have been given a raw deal for years while other groups have received hefty pay rises. |
|
given the cold shoulder
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
given the cold shoulder - shunned or avoided |
The president was given the cold shoulder by officials when he arrived in the capital. |
|
given the green light
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to give the green light to something - to allow something to happen |
The government has given the green light to the Disney project, in spite of considerable opposition from residents. |
From the universally used colour of traffic signals |
go ahead
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
go ahead - to start or continue action |
'Go ahead, make my day!' - Dirty Harry (Clint Eastwood). What he meant was 'please continue with your action of taking your gun out, so I will have an excuse to kill you!' |
|
goof around
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
goof around - behave in a relaxed way |
Will you please stop goofing around and get some work done. |
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got a taste of his own medicine
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to get a taste of your own medicine - to have something unpleasant done to you that you have done to somebody else |
You've alwaysbullied younger children, well now you're getting a taste of your own medicine. |
|
got into this mess
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
To get into a mess - to become involved in a situation which is unpleasant or difficult and hard to escape from - metaphorical. |
If you had remembered to bring your keys, we would never have got into this mess. |
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grounded
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
grounded - to be punished by not being allowed to go out |
My parents were so angry when I drank all their whisky I'm grounded for a month. |
|
grouse
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
grouse - very good (Australian slang) |
These prawns are extra grouse! |
|
hard man
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
hard man - someone noted for toughness or violence |
Roy Keane always cultivated an image as a bit of a hard man at Manchester United. |
|
having a blind spot
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a blind spot - an issue you do not want to confront |
Not acting against absenteeism is one of his blind spots - he just won't admit there's a problem. |
|
her other half
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
one¡¦s other half - partner in marriage or romance |
Maybe ask your other half if she would like to come too. |
|
here goes
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
here goes - an indication of intention to stop talking and start acting |
OK we've decided to ski down this side, so here goes! |
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hiding its head in the sand
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to hiding your head in the sand - to avoid facing a situation |
We'll have to stop hiding our head in the sand and realise that this is a real threat to our freedom. |
This comes from an old belief about the large flightless bird, the ostrich, which was thought to bury its head in the sand. We now know that this is not true. |
high time
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
high time - time that something is done urgently |
It's high time that something was done about this disgraceful situation. |
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hit the streets
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
hit the streets - be on sale |
As soon as the magazine hit the streets, it was snapped up by eager buyers. |
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holding back
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to hold back - to impede or obstruct |
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hone
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
hone - practice or refine (metaphor) |
The retreat enabled everyone to have some time to hone their dancing skills. |
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horror tackle
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
horror (tackle etc) - having very bad consequences. |
After last week's horror encounter, the two teams will be very wary of each other in the future. |
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hot spots
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
hot spot - place currently experiencing violence or crisis |
As a reporter he went to many of Asia's hotspots in the 1990s. |
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house of cards collapsed
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
house of cards - something unstable built on weak foundations or false premises |
When investors starting a run on the bank, the whole house of cards collapsed. |
Some people are skilful at building structures from playing cards, but they are very unstable, and usually fall down before long. |
humming
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
humming - performing well |
The company went through a very bad period, but now she's humming. crash - Several people jumped to their deaths as the extent of the stock market crash became apparent. |
Like a machine humming as it works well |
hurdle
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
hurdle - an obstacle |
There are a number of problems to sort out, but I'm confident that none of them will be insurmountable hurdles. |
From the athletics event where runners have to jump over barriers or hurdles |
in hot pursuit
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
in hot pursuit - to chase energetically |
As soon as the thief started running, the policeman and several bystanders took off in hot pursuit. |
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in linguistic limbo
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
in limbo - a place between Heaven and earth - a desolate region of oblivion or neglect |
The review of the legislation was put on hold, leaving thousands of home owners in limbo. |
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in the english stakes
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
in the (English) stakes - in the competition to (learn English) |
She may not win in the beauty stakes, but she is intelligent and charming. |
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in the first place
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
In the first place - at first |
We should never have come here in the first place, but it¡¦s too late now, we¡¦ve already paid for the hotel. |
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into the doldrums
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
in the doldrums - a place of little or no activity |
Their team used to be one of the most dynamic in the league, but they have been in the doldrums since their manager left. |
Refers to a region in the ocean where there is little wind, and sailing ships used to fear being becalmed and unable to move. |
is not much rosier
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to paint a rosy picture - to be optimistic |
Although the president has painted a rosy picture of his achievements, the exodus of manpower is continuing. |
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juggernauts
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
juggernaut - a very large or powerful force |
The small companies did not approve of the take-over, but felt powerless to resist such a juggernaut. |
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junket
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
junket - feast or celebration |
I expect the staff party will be the usual extravagant junket 0- I'm glad I'm not paying for it. |
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keep an eye on
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to keep an eye on something - to watch or observe something in case action is necessary |
The boss asked me to keep an eye on his secretary while he was away, as she has been taking a bit of time off without permission. |
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kick start the economy
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
kick start - to stimulate into renewed activity |
The Financial Secretary announced several measured designed to kick-start the economy. |
Originally referred to starting an engine on a motor cycle with a foot-operated started. After one or two attempts, the engine roars into life. |
laid beckham out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to lay someone out - to incapacitate or render unconscious |
An old woman was laid out by a piece of falling timber. |
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landmark
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
landmark - important |
The government's landmark legislation meant the beginning of a whole new era. |
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laughing all the way to the bank
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
laughing all the way to the bank - in an unexpectedly advantageous financial position. |
|
Compare crying all the way to the bank which means professing sympathy for an unfortunate situation from which one stands to profit. |
led the charge
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to lead a charge - to take aggressive action |
The church has been leading the charge against moral decay in the past few years. |
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like a bear with a sore head
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
like a bear with a sore head - very angry |
I wouldn't go into the boss's office right now - he's been like a bear with a sore head since he saw that memo. |
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make the cut
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to make the cut - to succeed in being selected |
Several of the contenstants failed to make the cut and were eliminated in the first round. |
The cut is the cut-off point on a list - those above succeed, those below fail. |
making their debut
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
make a debut - be introduced |
Pacific Andes made its debut on the Hang Seng Index yesterday, and showed a rise of 5%. |
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mind-bending
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
mind-bending - amazing |
The kids were amazed by the mind-bending display of dazzling effects at the ceremony. |
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muddying the waters
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
muddying the waters - making matters more difficult to understand |
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nitty-gritty
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the nitty gritty - the essential fine details |
That's the broad picture, so let's get down to the real nitty gritty - how much are you prepared to pay? |
Some authorities say it is politically incorrect to use this term in some circumstances in the US. |
off the hook
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
let somebody off the hook - allow someone to escape punishment |
He should have been arrested and charged with theft, but they decided to let him off the hook if he promised to keep out trouble. |
From letting a fish escape after it has been snared. |
on my wavelength
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
on my wavelength - can communicate with me |
I really can't communicate with my new flatmate. I wish I was sharing with someone on my wavelength. |
A metaphor from communications engineering - tuning in to radio waves. |
on top of
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
on top of - in addition to |
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out in woop woop
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
Woop Woop a remote rural area (Australian slang) |
I've live out in Woop Woop all my life, I want to try living in the city for a change. |
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out into the cold
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
out into the cold - denied of opportunity |
The moving of the highway left the owners of several motels out in the cold. |
Probably inflenced by the title of a famous novel The Spy who came in from the cold, by John LeCarre. |
out of line
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to out of line - to do something wrong |
He ought to apologise. His behaviour was completely out of line. |
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over to you
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
over to you - Now it is your turn |
That's all from me, so it's over to Mrs Clegg to tell you about the arrangements for the picnic. |
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over-the-top
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
over-the-top - extreme |
He won't fit into the think-tank - some of his ideas are quite over the top. |
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paints a gloomy picture
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to paint a gloomy picture - to be pessimistic |
The Democrats painted a gloomy picture of freedoms under the proposed new law. |
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pass the buck
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to pass the buck - to refer a problem to someone else for action |
It's no use trying to pass the buck on this one, you really have to make a decision. |
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point out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to point out - to make a statement for someone¡|s benefit |
It looked quite attractive, but she pointed out that it would be enormously expensive. |
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pointed out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to point out - to draw attention to |
He pointed out that many people are in a similar position. |
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prop up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
prop up - support |
I don't think the government is in the mood to prop up the housing market any longer. |
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pull his head in
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to pull your head in - desist from offensive or embarrassing behaviour |
If he gives you any trouble, just tell him to pull his head in. |
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pushed too hard
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to be pushed to hard - to be forced to do more than you are capable of |
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put the boot in
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
put the boot in - to attack viciously, either physically or used metaphorically for verbal assaults |
The prime minister expected trouble, and sure enough, one by one his ministers started to put the boot in. |
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putting all their eggs in the american basket.
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to put all your eggs in one basket - to rely heavily on one option |
The rules of investing are quite simple - buy low and sell high, and don't put all your eggs in one basket. |
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rammed down their throats
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to have something rammed down your throat - to be forced to accept something |
They will probably accept the changes if they are not rammed down their throats. |
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ratbag
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
ratbag - unpleasant or troublesome person (Australian slang) |
You'll never find a job here - everybody knows what a ratbag you are. |
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really into practical jokes
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to be into something - to like doing something |
Most of the students were really into computers, so they had no difficulty working out how to proceed. |
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ring a bell
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to ring a bell - to recall something |
His name doesn't ring a bell, but his face is vaguely familiar. |
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rubbished
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to rubbish (an idea) - to ridicule or condemn |
His plan for an artificial universal language was rubbished by most of the delegates. |
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scot-free
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
scot-free - without any penalty |
Many criminals are getting off scot-free while the police waste their time prosecuting minor offences. |
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seething
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
seething - very angry |
When he saw the bill he was seething. |
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sell-out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
a sell-out - failure to take the correct or just action. |
Many people see the company's failure to renew the contract as a sell-out. |
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set off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to set off - to start a journey |
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set up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
To set up - to arrange or organise |
Maybe you can set up a meeting with their representatives so that we can talk about it more. |
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setting up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
To set up - to arrange or organise |
Maybe you can set up a meeting with their representatives so that we can talk about it more. |
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shake them off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to shake somebody off - to free oneself of someone¡¦s attention |
She finally managed to shake off the flu after several days. |
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shattered
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
shattered - upset or |
She was shattered to learn that her boyfriend had been seeing another woman for over a year. |
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shoot through
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to shoot through - to leave, depart (Australian slang) |
Most managers here only stay for a few months and then shoot through. |
Originally ¡§to shoot through like a Bondi tram¡¨ - the tram was an electric vehicle which went through the city. |
shop window
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
shop window - a good example |
It is more than a cruise ship. It is also a shop window for all the South Korea has to offer. |
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slip out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to slip out - to escape detection or apprehension |
If the meeting gets boring, maybe we can slip out for a coffee at around 11. |
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steamy
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
steamy - having passionate or sexual content |
The censors decided that the scene was too steamy for a general family audience. |
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sweep it under the carpet
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
sweep something under the carpet - fail to take action on an issue, hoping that it will go away. |
Somebody needs to treat the cause of the problem instead of trying to sweep it under the carpet. |
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tackled the issue
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
tackle - take action, confront |
Unless the minister tackles the problem without delay, it will spiral out of control. |
Another sporting metaphor from football |
take a rain check
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to take a rain check - to postpone until later (US slang) |
Thanks for the invitation, but I'll have to take a rain check. |
This comes from the practice of giving a ticket for a baseball game when it is cancelled due to rain. You can bring the ticket (or "check") to see the match free at a later time. |
take beckham out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to take someone out - to incapacitate or kill someone |
It was learned that the triads had wanted to take him out for some time. |
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take it easy
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
Take it easy - relax and enjoy yourself |
After all your work, I'm sure you'll be glad to take it easy for a while. |
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taken up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to take up - to accept (an offer etc.) |
I guess I ought to take Allen to task about this - his work is really not good enough. |
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talking shop
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
talking shop - discussing topics related to one's work. |
Let's not talk shop, let's talk about something more interesting. |
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that's life
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
that's life - That's the way things happen. |
I won $200 and then lost it all on the next race. Ah well, that's life. |
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the innards
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the innards - the interior structure (metaphor) |
The workings of the innards of a computer are a mystery to many people. |
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the whole enchilada
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
the whole enchilada - everything (US slang) |
He's tired of the city - the crods, the noise, the traffic, the whole enchilada. |
Literally a kind of Mexican food containing chilli. |
ticked off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
ticked off - angry or upset (US slang) |
I was so ticked off when he didn't return my books that I sent him a nasty letter. |
This is a milder form of the more vulgar ¡§pissed off¡¨ |
to be bothered
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to be bothered - to take the trouble to do something |
It's really late - I just can't be bothered to do this - lets leave it until tomorrow. |
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to kick off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to kick off - to start |
The meeting kicked off with an informal introduction by the boss. |
Literally refers to the beginning of a football match. |
to make it
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to make it - to be successful |
He couldn't make it in the music industry, so settled for being an accountant. |
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told off
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
To tell someone off - to admonish or scold |
He's always throwing rubbish around. It's about time you told him off. |
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tongue-twisters
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
tongue-twister - a sequence of words containing difficult sounds |
The title of the book 'the Myth of Sisyphus' was a tongue-twister that most of them couldn't even pronounce. |
Implies that it is so difficult it will twist your tongue into knots |
took him to task
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to take someone to task - to criticise or point out something that someone has done wrong |
You are going to buy me lunch? I'll certainly take you up on that! |
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took me up
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
To take someone up on something (invitation, offer tec) - to accept |
You are going to buy me lunch? I'll certainly take you up on that! |
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tracked him down
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
To track someone down - to locate |
They finally tracked him down to a seedy hotel in Mongkok. |
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turned out
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
it turned out - it became apparent |
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under the knife
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
to go under the knife - to have a surgical operation |
The liposuction operation to remove fat has proved so popular that hundreds are queuing up to go under the knife. |
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unravelling
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
unravel - to go wrong |
The carefully thought out system worked for several years, but has recently started to unravel. |
Really means to come loose or undone, like a thread from a woolen garment. |
up-market
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
up-market - expensive |
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upshot
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
upshot - result, consequence |
He didn't produce the results, and the upshot was that he is now out of a job. |
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very edgy
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
edgy - anxious or nervous |
The plane bumped and jerked as it went through a patch of turbulence, and the passengers were starting to get edgy. |
Also "on the edge" with the same meaning |
whupping his butt
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
whupping his butt - beating him (US slang) |
When our teams meet in the semi-finals we are really going to whup your butts. |
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without any sweat
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
without any sweat - easily |
He's done all this work before. He should be able to pass the exam without any sweat. |
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wriggling out of
![](https://img1.daumcdn.net/relay/cafe/original/?fname=http%3A%2F%2Fcaes.hku.hk%2Fvocabulary%2Ftutorial%2Fimages%2Fhome%2Fsound.gif) |
wriggling out of - avoid doing something |
He was keen to get married last year, but now he has been trying to wriggle out of his obligations. |
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