Learn some idiomatic expressions. The English
language is rich in idioms. A student with only limited knowledge of idioms
will find himself or herself in a serious disadvantage in reading, discussions,
and debates, not to mention in effective writing.
In hot water: in serious trouble.
e.g. If you don't listen
to me, you'll find yourself in
hot water.
e.g. We'd better leave
before there is a rough house.
e.g. Pink will be all the rage this summer.
e.g. Honesty is one of
my articles of faith.
e.g. Despite all his
efforts, he came off second
best in the competition.
e.g. There were obvious
signs that the company would soon be out of business; they should have seen the writing on the wall.
Third degree: physical or mental torture.
e.g. The police gave the suspect the third degree, but were unable
to get any information about the crime.
Let the cat out of the bag: give away a
secret
e.g. If you tell him that, you are letting a cat out
of the bag; he has a big mouth!
Come to naught: come to nothing.
e.g. Despite all the efforts, the
project came to naught.
A diamond in the rough: a person or thing with hidden value or qualities.
e.g. Don’t underestimate her—she’s a
diamond in the rough.
Get on the wrong side of someone: to displease, or get out of favor
e.g. If you keep on bugging her, you will soon get on the wrong side of her.
In the melting-pot: not yet decided.
e.g. Because the President is not here, all
the arrangements are backin the melting-pot again.
As safe as houses: very safe and secure.
e.g. Your money invested
in this stock is as safe as
houses.
e.g. There has always been bad blood between
the two brothers.
Attitude of mind: mindset, way of thinking or feeling.
e.g. In order to succeed, you must have the
right attitude of mind.
e.g. Bug off! And
leave me alone!
Capitalize on something: make the most out of; exploit something to
one’s advantage.
e.g. You should capitalize on your
talents, instead of whiling away your time.
Keep an even keel: remain cool and calm.
Keep an even keel: remain cool and calm.
e.g. In this situation, it is difficult
to keep an even keel and not panic.
e.g. I am not wasting my time over this
matter; I just have other fish to fry.
All About Stephen Lau
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