Idioms

– Manuscript – Welcome to English in a Minute! A swan is a large, lovely bird. So, a swan song must be something a swan sings. Right? Swan Song Speaker A: Jonathan, do you want to go see Nellie Fratelli's Big Band Blowout with me?Speaker B: Nellie Fratelli? Didn't she retire last yearSpeaker A: I don't think so.Speaker B: We saw her last show together. She even … [Read more...] about Swan Song (Idioms)

– Manuscript – Welcome to English in a Minute! People with big feet need big shoes. But is this expression really about footwear? Big Shoes to Fill Speaker A: Wait a minute, who are you?Speaker B: Hi Anna. I'm Dan. I'm new to the office. Nice to meet you.Speaker A: Nice to meet you, Dan. You know, you have big shoes to fill. I mean big.Speaker B: Why is everyone … [Read more...] about Big Shoes to Fill (Idioms)

– Manuscript – Welcome to English in a Minute! Swimming is a great form of exercise. But what do you think could this means? Sink or Swim Speaker A: How's your new publishing job going, Anna?Speaker B: Don't get me started. I've had no training! I don't know what to do or how to do it.Speaker A: Sounds like you've been left to sink or swim.Speaker B: Yes, Jonathan! … [Read more...] about Sink or Swim (Idioms)

– Manuscript – Welcome to English in a Minute! When you boil water, it lets off steam. But how do we use this phrase in a conversation? Let Off Steam Speaker A: What is wrong with that woman?Speaker B: Katie? Nothing. Why do you ask?Speaker A: Well, she's outside hitting a tree.Speaker B: She does that to let off steam.Speaker A: Look, we all need to let out our … [Read more...] about Let Off Steam (Idioms)

– Manuscript – Welcome to English in a Minute! Clams are a kind of shellfish that live in sand or mud. They are also apparently very happy creatures. Happy as a Clam Speaker A: So, how was your holiday weekend, Anna?Speaker B: Jonathan, it was great. I spent three whole days, alone, reading children's books. I was happy as a clam!Speaker A: Wow! Okay. You still look … [Read more...] about Happy as a Clam (Idioms)