Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.
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Transcript of Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.
![Page 1: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/1.jpg)
IdiomsWords in combination
TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9
![Page 2: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/2.jpg)
Outline
• What is an idiom?• Structure of idioms• Fixed aspects of idioms• English idioms and Chinese ones• Idioms in academic language• 50 Common English Idioms• Online dictionary of idioms
![Page 3: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/3.jpg)
What is an idiom?
• An idiom is an expression, word, or phrase that has figurative meaning.
• The meaning of idioms are NOT obvious from the individual words.
![Page 4: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/4.jpg)
drive somebody round the bend
make somebody angry or frustrated
![Page 5: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/5.jpg)
This tin opener’s driving me round the bend! I think I ‘ll throw it away and get a new one next time I’ m in town.
![Page 6: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/6.jpg)
Caution
• When a speaker uses an idiom, the listener might mistake its actual meaning, if he or she has not heard this figure of speech before.
![Page 7: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/7.jpg)
• Idioms usually do not translate well; in some cases, when an idiom is translated into another language, either its meaning is changed or it is meaningless.
![Page 8: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/8.jpg)
Structure of idioms
![Page 9: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/9.jpg)
Fixed aspects of idioms
![Page 10: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/10.jpg)
English idioms versus Chinese ones
• Similarities
• Differences
![Page 11: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/11.jpg)
Similarities
• 己所不欲,勿施于人 Do as you would be done
• 好有好报 One good turn deserves another
• 慈悲心肠 Milk of human kindness
• 既往不咎 Let bygones be bygones
![Page 12: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/12.jpg)
• 天行健,君子以自强不息 God helps those who help themselves
• 有志者,事竟成 Where there is a will, there is a way
• 不入虎穴,焉得虎子 Nothing venture, nothing have
![Page 13: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/13.jpg)
• 不成功,便成仁 Do or die
• 一不做,二不休 Over shoes over boots
• 有始有终 From beginning to end
![Page 14: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/14.jpg)
Differences
• English idioms “Achille’s heel”, “Pandora’s box”, “The apple of discord”, “bow down in the House of Rimmon”, “the kiss of Judas”, “Noah’s Ark”, “meet one’s Waterloo”, “cut the Gordian knot”,
![Page 15: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/15.jpg)
• Chinese idioms
“班门弄斧” , “ 卧薪尝胆” ,
“ 四面楚歌” , “ 鹬蚌相争 , 渔翁得利” ,
“ 黔驴技穷” , “ 女娲补天” ,
“ 嫦娥奔月” “精卫填海
![Page 16: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/16.jpg)
• “teach one’s grandmother to suck eggs”, • “in determination for revenge”, • “be cornered”, • “It’s the third party that benefits from the
tussle”, • “at one’s wit’s end",• " recreate the heaven”, • “flying to the Moon”, and • “a dogged determination”.
![Page 17: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/17.jpg)
National characteristics
• Geographic environment
• National experience
• Cultural inheritance
• Formation of thinking
![Page 18: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/18.jpg)
• 牛饮 Drink like a fish
• 碰壁 On the rock
• 挥金如土 Spend money like water
• 是非之地 Sea of troubles
![Page 19: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/19.jpg)
• 树倒猢狲散 Rats leave a sinking ship
• 声东击西 Look one way and row another
• 种瓜得瓜,种豆得豆 Sow the wind and reap the whirlwind
• 入不敷出 Go bankrupt
![Page 20: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/20.jpg)
• 未雨綢繆 Put money aside for a rainy day
• 捡了芝麻,漏了西瓜 Penny wise and pound foolish.
• 老天保佑 God bless
• 天網恢恢,疏而不漏 God’s mill grinds slow but sure
![Page 21: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/21.jpg)
• 天命 God’s will
• 天地万物 Works of God
• 謀事在人,成事在天 Man proposes and God disposes
• 投桃报李 Scratch Someone’s Back
![Page 22: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/22.jpg)
• 赔了夫人又折兵 Throw good money after bad
• 天道酬勤 The early bird catches the worm
• 一寸光阴一寸金,寸金难买寸光阴 Time is money
• 缘木求鱼 Milk the bull
![Page 23: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/23.jpg)
• 玉不琢不成器 Spare the rod and spoil the child
• 敬而远之 Let sleeping dogs lie
![Page 24: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/24.jpg)
Idioms in academic language
• Idioms are NOT appropriate in formal English such as academic writing.
idioms are informal, more typical of speech
![Page 25: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/25.jpg)
idioms are culture-specific, not understood by all readers
idioms interfere with clear communication- academic ideas are best presented directly and transparently
![Page 26: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/26.jpg)
Types of idioms
1. Pure idioms e.g. a red herring = an irrelevant issue
2. Proverbs e.g. many hands make light work = working together makes a job easier
![Page 27: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/27.jpg)
3. Phrasal verbs e.g. set up = establish
4. Figurative idioms e.g. pay a dividend = provide a benefit
![Page 28: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/28.jpg)
• Categories 1 and 2, pure idioms and proverbs, are generally not used and are best avoided. The other types are used to some extent.
![Page 29: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/29.jpg)
• Pure idioms are the most idiomatic phrases in English, which are often taught to language learners, but are hardly ever found in formal writing:
kick the bucket = diebe at someone's beck and call = be constantly ready to obey someone
![Page 30: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/30.jpg)
• Proverbs are highly culture-specific and are used to express general truths about life, not the precise concepts required in academic communication.
![Page 31: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/31.jpg)
You can take a horse to the water but you can't make him drink
• NOT an appropriate style!
![Page 32: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/32.jpg)
Figurative idioms
• Figurative idioms are different from pure idioms, since their meanings are much easier to understand. They are quite common in academic writing.
![Page 33: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/33.jpg)
• Examples 1
The following are all taken from published academic texts:
... the mapping of such distributions may also be informative in bringing to light unexpected correspondences at the sound level among different languages
![Page 34: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/34.jpg)
... this means that such women carry in their heads kinship knowledge of six generations depth
![Page 35: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/35.jpg)
…The term was used to justify action taken with respect to children but was open to abuse, creating confusion and drawing a veil of ignorance over important issues.
![Page 36: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/36.jpg)
…A major learning objective of the course would be to enable each professional to understand ... the career path he/she might follow once in the workforce ...
![Page 37: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/37.jpg)
…The first and second perspectives set greater store by relationships based on actual psychological interaction of a positive kind, rather than the blood tie.
![Page 38: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/38.jpg)
• Examples 2
Idioms of this kind are commonly formed with a particular set of verbs, which have very broad meanings: get, have, make, take:
![Page 39: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/39.jpg)
get one's way = achieve what one wants
have one's roots somewhere = originate from somewhere
make a case for something = justify something
take place = happen
![Page 40: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/40.jpg)
50 Common English Idioms
• The idioms and expressions below are some of the most common in English. The example sentences show how idioms are used in context.
![Page 41: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/41.jpg)
1. as easy as pie
• It means "very easy" (same as "a piece of cake")
• Example: He said it is a difficult problem, but I don't agree. It seems as easy as pie to me!
![Page 42: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/42.jpg)
2. be sick and tired of
• It means "I hate" (also "can't stand")
• Example: I'm sick and tired of doing nothing but work. Let's go out tonight and have fun.
![Page 43: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/43.jpg)
3. bend over backwards
• It means "try very hard" (maybe too much!)
• Example: He bent over backwards to please his new wife, but she never seemed satisfied.
![Page 44: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/44.jpg)
4. bite off more than one can chew
• It means "take responsibility for more than one can manage"
• Example: John is so far behind in his studies. Besides classes, he plays sports and works at a part-time job. It seems he has bitten off more than he can chew.
![Page 45: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/45.jpg)
5. broke
• It means "to have no money"
• Example: I have to borrow some money from my Dad. Right now, I'm broke.
![Page 46: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/46.jpg)
• It means "decide to do something different from what had been decided earlier"
• Example: I was planning to work late tonight, but I changed my mind. I'll do extra work on the weekend instead.
![Page 47: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/47.jpg)
7. Cut it out!
• It means "stop doing something bad"
• Example: That noise is really annoying. Cut it out!
![Page 48: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/48.jpg)
8. drop someone a line
• It means "send a letter or email to someone“
• Example: It was good to meet you and I hope we can see each other again. Drop me a line when you have time.
![Page 49: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/49.jpg)
9. figure something out
• It means "come to understand a problem"
• Example: I don't understand how to do this problem. Take a look at it. Maybe you can figure it out.
![Page 50: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/50.jpg)
10. fill in for someone
• It means "do their work while they are away"
• Example: While I was away from the store, my brother filled in for me.
![Page 51: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/51.jpg)
11. in ages
• It means "for a very long time"
• Example: Have you seen Joe recently? I haven't seen him in ages.
![Page 52: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/52.jpg)
12. give someone a hand
• It means "help"
• Example: I want to move this desk to the next room. Can you give me a hand?
![Page 53: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/53.jpg)
13. hit the hay
• It means "go to bed" (also "hit the sack")
• Example: It's after 12 o'clock. I think it's time to hit the hay.
![Page 54: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/54.jpg)
14. in the black
• It means "the business is making money, it is profitable"
• Example: Our business is really improving. We've been in the black all year.
![Page 55: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/55.jpg)
15. in the red
• It means "the business is losing money, it is unprofitable"
• Example: Business is really going poorly these days. We've been in the red for the past three months.
![Page 56: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/56.jpg)
16. in the nick of time
• It means "not too late, but very close!"
• Example: I got to the drugstore just in the nick of time. It's a good thing, because I really need this medicine!
![Page 57: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/57.jpg)
17. keep one's chin up
• It means "remain brave and keep on trying"
• Example: I know things have been difficult for you recently, but keep your chin up. It will get better soon.
![Page 58: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/58.jpg)
18. know something like the back of your hand
• It means "know something very, very well"
• Example: If you get lost, just ask me for directions. I know this part of town like the back of my hand
![Page 59: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/59.jpg)
19. once in a while
• It means "sometimes, not very often"
• Example: Have you been to the new movie theater? No, only see movies once in a while. I usually stay home and watch TV.
![Page 60: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/60.jpg)
20. sharp
• It means "exactly at a that time"
• Example: I'll meet you at 9 o'clock sharp. If you're late, we'll be in trouble!
![Page 61: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/61.jpg)
21. sleep on it
• It means "think about something before making a decision"
• Example: That sounds like a good deal, but I'd like to sleep on it before I give you my final decision.
![Page 62: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/62.jpg)
22. take it easy
• It means "relax“.
• Example: I don't have any special plans for the summer. I think I'll just take it easy.
![Page 63: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/63.jpg)
23. to get the ball rolling
• It means "start something, especially something big"
• Example: We need to get this project started as soon as possible. I'm hoping you will help me get the ball rolling.
![Page 64: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/64.jpg)
24. up to the minute
• It means "the most recent information"
• Example: I wish I knew more about what is happening in the capital city. We need more up to the minute news.
![Page 65: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/65.jpg)
25. twenty-four/seven
• It means "every minute of every day, all the time"
• Example: You can access our web site 24/7. It's very convenient!
![Page 66: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/66.jpg)
26. all of a sudden
• It means "unexpectedly", used to describe something that happens very quickly
• Example: He had just gone to bed when all of a sudden the phone rang.
![Page 67: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/67.jpg)
27. be all ears
• It means "eager and ready to listen"
• Example: Go ahead and speak. I'm all ears!
![Page 68: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/68.jpg)
28. be fed up with
• It means "to hate something now, even though I may have liked it before"
• Example: I'm fed up with my job! I think I should start looking for a new one.
![Page 69: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/69.jpg)
29. to bug
• It means "to bother someone". (American English)
• Example: Hey, stop tapping your fingers. It's really bugging me!
![Page 70: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/70.jpg)
30. a cinch
• It means something that is very easy to do
• Example: I didn't think I could run five kilometers, but with the right preparation, it was a cinch.
![Page 71: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/71.jpg)
31. cost an arm and a leg
• It means "very expensive"
• Example: I'd really like a new car, but they all cost an arm and a leg.
![Page 72: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/72.jpg)
32. to cram
• It means "to study hard a few days before a test"
• Example: If you had studied hard for the past four months, you wouldn't have to cram so much this weekend.
![Page 73: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/73.jpg)
33. fresh out of something
• It means "to have no more of something"
• Example: I have to go buy some more milk. It seems we're fresh out now.
![Page 74: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/74.jpg)
34. to get it
• It means "to understand" (often negative)
• Example: What did the teacher say? I didn't get it. Did you?
![Page 75: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/75.jpg)
35. got a minute?
• It means "Do you have time right now?“
• Example: Hey, Joe, got a minute? I have something to show you.
![Page 76: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/76.jpg)
36. give someone a hand
• It means "help someone"
• Example: Could you give me a hand moving this table? It's quite heavy.
![Page 77: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/77.jpg)
37. grab a bite to eat
• It means "quickly go get something to eat“
• Example: I'm going to go grab a bite. I'll be back in a few minutes.
![Page 78: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/78.jpg)
38. drive someone up a wall (or "drive someone crazy")
• It means "to make someone very angry"
• Example: My neighbor practices the piano every night, but he's terrible. It's driving me up the wall!
![Page 79: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/79.jpg)
39. to hang on
• It means "to wait"
• Example: Hang on a few minutes. I have to make a phone call and then I'll be able to join you for lunch.
![Page 80: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/80.jpg)
40. hard headed
• It means "stubborn" or "unwilling to change an opinion or idea
• Example: I can't work with Joe any more. He's so hard headed!
![Page 81: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/81.jpg)
41. have a change of heart
• It means "change a previous decision"
• Example: I thought I would change jobs, but now that my boss is treating me with more respect, I've had a change of heart.
![Page 82: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/82.jpg)
42. have mixed feelings about something
• It means "to be uncertain"
• Example: I have mixed feelings about Joe. He's a very good teacher, but he has a very strange sense of humor!
![Page 83: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/83.jpg)
43. head out for
• It means "to start on a long trip" (but it could be within a big city)
• Example: We're heading out for the countryside to pick some apples. Would you like to join us?
![Page 84: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/84.jpg)
44. How come?
• It means "Why?"
• Example: How come we don't go to the movies any more? I guess we're too busy to enjoy ourselves these days.
![Page 85: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/85.jpg)
45. keep in touch (or "stay in touch")
• It means "do not stop communicating - send letters or call sometimes"
• Example: Don't forget to keep in touch. I want to know how you're doing while you're away.
![Page 86: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/86.jpg)
46. be kidding
• It means "to joke or tease someone in a playful way"
• Example: No, I don't really have three wives - I was just kidding!
![Page 87: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/87.jpg)
47. look down on
• It means "think somone or something is not good enough"
• Example: We shouldn't look down on people just because they don't have as much money as we do.
![Page 88: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/88.jpg)
48. make ends meet
• It means "to have enough money to buy everything we need" (often used negatively)
• Example: Even though I make more money than last year, we just can't seem to make ends meet.
![Page 89: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/89.jpg)
49. miss the boat
• It means "to miss an opportunity"
• Example: The sale ends today at noon. If we don't hurry, we're going to miss the boat!
![Page 90: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/90.jpg)
50. next to nothing
• It means "to cost very little"
• Example: I went to the new discount store and bought these new shoes for only five dollars. That's next to nothing!
![Page 91: Idioms Words in combination TESL 2200: Word Usage and Vocabulary in Context Lecture 9.](https://reader035.fdocuments.net/reader035/viewer/2022062322/56649e255503460f94b15139/html5/thumbnails/91.jpg)
Cambridge international dictionary of idioms
• http://dictionary.cambridge.org/results.asp?searchword=International