English Idioms, Slang and Useful Vocabulary » Catch Word http://esl.culips.com Sat, 31 Jul 2010 07:01:47 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.4 en-us hourly 1 Listen to fun English podcasts with natural expressions and everyday vocabulary for language learners. Every Culips episode has interesting elements of culture as well as language. Culips ESL Podcast clean Culips ESL Podcast asami@culips.com asami@culips.com (Culips ESL Podcast) 2008-2009 Everyday English: idioms, slang and useful vocabulary English, ESL, study, idiom, podcast, language, lesson, slang, English Idioms, Slang and Useful Vocabulary http://esl.culips.com/images/logo-iTunes.jpg http://esl.culips.com/category/catch-word/ Do you usually try to look on the bright side? http://esl.culips.com/2010/07/do-you-usually-try-to-look-on-the-bright-side/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/07/do-you-usually-try-to-look-on-the-bright-side/#comments Mon, 19 Jul 2010 02:17:32 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2605 To look on the bright side When you find yourself in a bad situation, do you try to look on the bright side? If your friend gets some bad news, have you ever said: Every cloud has a silver lining? When life gives you lemons, do you make lemonade? In this episode, we are optimistic and trying to find the good in the bad by looking at all these expressions. Check them out of you want to cheer someone up!


Robin Maura

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What is a Member?

Robin: Let’s do a dialogue.
Maura: I don’t know what to do.
Robin: What’s the matter?
Maura: Well, I’ve been looking for a job for months everyday. I send my resume, but I just can’t get a job. I think I’m going to be unemployed all summer.
Robin: Hey, hey, hey, look on the bright side. At least while we’re in the office, we’re working away, you can sit outside and enjoy that beautiful weather.
Maura: You’re right. The weather has been nice lately.
Robin: Yeah, so look on the bright side. At least you can do that.
Maura: OK, great. So that was a great example of someone who is in a bad situation.

Expression included from this episode in Lipservice:

To look on the bright side (of something) What’s the matter?
At least Cheer up
Every cloud has a silver lining (and variations) Cloud
Silver lining When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.
Into a million pieces Shall
Novels and other types of books

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Pranav Singh

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/07/do-you-usually-try-to-look-on-the-bright-side/feed/ 0 expression When you find yourself in a bad situation, do you try to look on the bright side? If your friend gets some bad news, have you ever said: Every cloud has a silver lining? When life gives you lemons, do you make lemonade? In this episode, When you find yourself in a bad situation, do you try to look on the bright side? If your friend gets some bad news, have you ever said: Every cloud has a silver lining? When life gives you lemons, do you make lemonade? In this episode, we are optimistic and trying to find the good in the bad by looking at all these expressions. Check them out of you want to cheer someone up! What is a Member? Robin: Let’s do a dialogue. Maura: I don’t know what to do. Robin: What’s the matter? Maura: Well, I’ve been looking for a job for months everyday. I send my resume, but I just can’t get a job. I think I’m going to be unemployed all summer. Robin: Hey, hey, hey, look on the bright side. At least while we’re in the office, we’re working away, you can sit outside and enjoy that beautiful weather. Maura: You’re right. The weather has been nice lately. Robin: Yeah, so look on the bright side. At least you can do that. Maura: OK, great. So that was a great example of someone who is in a bad situation. Expression included from this episode in Lipservice: To look on the bright side (of something) What’s the matter? At least Cheer up Every cloud has a silver lining (and variations) Cloud Silver lining When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Into a million pieces Shall Novels and other types of books Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Pranav Singh Culips ESL Podcast clean 10:21 Harp is a chip off the old block. http://esl.culips.com/2010/07/harp-is-a-chip-off-the-old-block/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/07/harp-is-a-chip-off-the-old-block/#comments Mon, 05 Jul 2010 00:02:42 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2568 Chip off the old block Are you a chip off the old block? Are you similar to any relatives that came before you? In this episode we are talking about family, and how often family members look alike and act alike. There are many ways to talk about this, and some especially fun expression like to be a chip off the old block, to be the spitting image of, and the old proverb, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.To learn more about this fun — and long – expressions, listen here!


Maura Harp

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What is a Member?

Harp: Yeah, when I visited my grandma the last time, she kept saying that I looked so similar to my aunt, she kept saying that I was a chip off the old block.
Maura: Yeah, OK, good. So really the meaning is that someone, like you in that example Harp, is made as the same thing as another person, in that case your aunt. So if you think about the old block as your aunt and the chip being you, you’re a chip off the old block, you’re made of the same stuff, you act alike, you look alike.
Harp: Yup, that makes sense to me.
Maura: Yeah, it’s actually a really old expression. It’s been around for a long time. I think since the 1600s.
Harp: Yeah, but we still use this expression.
Maura: Yeah, it’s been around for a long time but you still hear it today.
Harp: Yeah, of course, we use this often.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Anita363

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/07/harp-is-a-chip-off-the-old-block/feed/ 1 expression,idioms Are you a chip off the old block? Are you similar to any relatives that came before you? In this episode we are talking about family, and how often family members look alike and act alike. There are many ways to talk about this, Are you a chip off the old block? Are you similar to any relatives that came before you? In this episode we are talking about family, and how often family members look alike and act alike. There are many ways to talk about this, and some especially fun expression like to be a chip off the old block, to be the spitting image of, and the old proverb, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.To learn more about this fun -- and long – expressions, listen here! What is a Member? Harp: Yeah, when I visited my grandma the last time, she kept saying that I looked so similar to my aunt, she kept saying that I was a chip off the old block. Maura: Yeah, OK, good. So really the meaning is that someone, like you in that example Harp, is made as the same thing as another person, in that case your aunt. So if you think about the old block as your aunt and the chip being you, you’re a chip off the old block, you’re made of the same stuff, you act alike, you look alike. Harp: Yup, that makes sense to me. Maura: Yeah, it’s actually a really old expression. It’s been around for a long time. I think since the 1600s. Harp: Yeah, but we still use this expression. Maura: Yeah, it’s been around for a long time but you still hear it today. Harp: Yeah, of course, we use this often. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Anita363 Culips ESL Podcast clean 13:44 Expression: to have a ball http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-we-hope-you%e2%80%99re-having-a-ball/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-we-hope-you%e2%80%99re-having-a-ball/#comments Sun, 27 Jun 2010 20:51:42 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2558 Have a ballMost people learning English know the word ball. We can use it in a few different ways though, and it is used in many expressions! To have a ball describes a fun time! In this episode we have a ball giving you examples and explanations. We also included similar expressions like, to have a blast, to have a riot, and to have the time of your life!


Robin Harp

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What is a Member?

Harp: Robin, how was the concert yesterday?
Robin: Incredible. The music is still in my head. I had such a ball. I had a real good time.
Harp: That’s awesome. So the band was great?
Robin: It was amazing. You would’ve had a good time.
Harp: That’s too bad that I missed it.
Robin: It is.
Harp: Next time. So in that example, Robin went to a concert and had a really fun time. He had a great time so he used the expression to have a ball.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Dom Sagolla

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-we-hope-you%e2%80%99re-having-a-ball/feed/ 0 Most people learning English know the word ball. We can use it in a few different ways though, and it is used in many expressions! To have a ball describes a fun time! In this episode we have a ball giving you examples and explanations. Most people learning English know the word ball. We can use it in a few different ways though, and it is used in many expressions! To have a ball describes a fun time! In this episode we have a ball giving you examples and explanations. We also included similar expressions like, to have a blast, to have a riot, and to have the time of your life! What is a Member? Harp: Robin, how was the concert yesterday? Robin: Incredible. The music is still in my head. I had such a ball. I had a real good time. Harp: That’s awesome. So the band was great? Robin: It was amazing. You would’ve had a good time. Harp: That’s too bad that I missed it. Robin: It is. Harp: Next time. So in that example, Robin went to a concert and had a really fun time. He had a great time so he used the expression to have a ball. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Dom Sagolla Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:17 Expression: Over the hill http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-over-the-hill/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-over-the-hill/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 23:21:33 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2536 Over the hill This expression is a funny way of saying that someone is old. To be over the hill means that someone is old, and so not able to do things that they used to do. You might see this expression on birthday cards or hear it in movies. This expression is usually used in a joking way. We also look at the expressions to be no spring chicken and long in the tooth. In a more positive way we also look at the golden years or the golden age. Getting older can have a lot of benefits too!


Robin Jessie

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Robin: Yes, this expression is not really a compliment. You don’t usually say that someone is over the hill.
Jessie: Right, it’s usually used as a joke or to describe yourself in a joking way.
Robin: Can you give us an example of where we might use it in everyday speech?
Jessie: OK, so for example, when someone has a big birthday, like when they turn 30 or 40, they might complain to their friends and say, “Oh, I’m over the hill. I’m so old now.”
Robin: When they do say something like that it’s going to be done in a very joking sort of way. They’re not serious.
Jessie: Exactly. So someone may say it about themselves or you might say it to tease a friend. You might say “Oh, you’re probably not going to come biking with us now that you’re over the hill.”

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: vsz

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-over-the-hill/feed/ 0 This expression is a funny way of saying that someone is old. To be over the hill means that someone is old, and so not able to do things that they used to do. You might see this expression on birthday cards or hear it in movies. This expression is a funny way of saying that someone is old. To be over the hill means that someone is old, and so not able to do things that they used to do. You might see this expression on birthday cards or hear it in movies. This expression is usually used in a joking way. We also look at the expressions to be no spring chicken and long in the tooth. In a more positive way we also look at the golden years or the golden age. Getting older can have a lot of benefits too! Robin: Yes, this expression is not really a compliment. You don’t usually say that someone is over the hill. Jessie: Right, it’s usually used as a joke or to describe yourself in a joking way. Robin: Can you give us an example of where we might use it in everyday speech? Jessie: OK, so for example, when someone has a big birthday, like when they turn 30 or 40, they might complain to their friends and say, “Oh, I’m over the hill. I’m so old now.” Robin: When they do say something like that it’s going to be done in a very joking sort of way. They’re not serious. Jessie: Exactly. So someone may say it about themselves or you might say it to tease a friend. You might say “Oh, you’re probably not going to come biking with us now that you’re over the hill.” Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: vsz Culips ESL Podcast clean 9:24 Expression: are you on the ball today? http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-are-you-on-the-ball-today/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-are-you-on-the-ball-today/#comments Sun, 13 Jun 2010 21:29:00 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2531 To be on the ballIn this episode we look at expressions that describe someone who is intelligent, prepared, capable of doing some work! Do you know someone like this? Do you know someone who always seems on the ball? If you know someone who is alert and knows how to get the job done, then you may need to use expressions like, to be on the ball, to be on top of it, and to have it together.


Maura Jessie

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Jessie: So where does this expression come from? Why do we say that?
Maura: Well, it actually does have an origin in baseball, and there are actually a lot of expressions related to baseball.
Jessie: Yeah, there are tons.
Maura: So this expression, to be on the ball, is also related to baseball. So when a pitcher throws the ball in baseball, really well and has good control, they would say that he was on the ball.
Jessie: OK, so originally to be on the ball meant to be in control of the ball but now we mean it to mean, to be in control of your life, to be in control of the situation.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Laura Bittner

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/06/expression-are-you-on-the-ball-today/feed/ 0 expression In this episode we look at expressions that describe someone who is intelligent, prepared, capable of doing some work! Do you know someone like this? Do you know someone who always seems on the ball? If you know someone who is alert and knows how to g... In this episode we look at expressions that describe someone who is intelligent, prepared, capable of doing some work! Do you know someone like this? Do you know someone who always seems on the ball? If you know someone who is alert and knows how to get the job done, then you may need to use expressions like, to be on the ball, to be on top of it, and to have it together. Jessie: So where does this expression come from? Why do we say that? Maura: Well, it actually does have an origin in baseball, and there are actually a lot of expressions related to baseball. Jessie: Yeah, there are tons. Maura: So this expression, to be on the ball, is also related to baseball. So when a pitcher throws the ball in baseball, really well and has good control, they would say that he was on the ball. Jessie: OK, so originally to be on the ball meant to be in control of the ball but now we mean it to mean, to be in control of your life, to be in control of the situation. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Laura Bittner Culips ESL Podcast clean 9:13 We are going to pump you up! http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/we-are-going-to-pump-you-up/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/we-are-going-to-pump-you-up/#comments Mon, 31 May 2010 01:57:45 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2481 pumped Everyone at Culips is especially pumped because the summer weather has arrived in Montreal. So, we thought we would make an episode all about feeling excited and full of energy! Here we look at the expressions of pumped up, fired up, stoked, and worked up. We are talking about being enthusiastic, energetic, and excited in this episode. Yeah!


Maura Harp

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Harp: Well I’m going on a holiday very soon so I’m pumped about that.
Maura: When are you going away?
Harp: I’m leaving really soon. I’m leaving in a couple days.
Maura: And where are you going?
Harp: I’m going back home to visit my parents.
Maura: So, is that why you’re pumped?
Harp: That is why I’m pumped. It’s been a long time.
Maura: So what else could someone be pumped about?
Harp: Really, you could be pumped about anything: a hockey game, a competition.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Culips ESL Podcast

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/we-are-going-to-pump-you-up/feed/ 3 Everyone at Culips is especially pumped because the summer weather has arrived in Montreal. So, we thought we would make an episode all about feeling excited and full of energy! Here we look at the expressions of pumped up, fired up, stoked, Everyone at Culips is especially pumped because the summer weather has arrived in Montreal. So, we thought we would make an episode all about feeling excited and full of energy! Here we look at the expressions of pumped up, fired up, stoked, and worked up. We are talking about being enthusiastic, energetic, and excited in this episode. Yeah! Harp: Well I’m going on a holiday very soon so I’m pumped about that. Maura: When are you going away? Harp: I’m leaving really soon. I’m leaving in a couple days. Maura: And where are you going? Harp: I’m going back home to visit my parents. Maura: So, is that why you’re pumped? Harp: That is why I’m pumped. It’s been a long time. Maura: So what else could someone be pumped about? Harp: Really, you could be pumped about anything: a hockey game, a competition. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Culips ESL Podcast Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:30 Slang: Let’s bounce http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/slang-let%e2%80%99s-bounce/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/slang-let%e2%80%99s-bounce/#comments Mon, 17 May 2010 03:46:18 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2436 bounce In this episode, we explain many slang expressions to say “Let’s leave.” These expressions are strange and funny. Knowing these expressions can help you in your listening comprehension. If you choose to use any of the expressions they should only be used in a casual way with friends. Expressions we talk about in this episodes are:
Let’s bounce
Let’s jet
Let’s blow this popstand
Let’s get a move on


Maura Robin btn_lipservice.gif

Maura: OK, so this episode we’re really just looking at funny or clever or unusual ways to say, let’s leave, or I’m going to leave.
Robin: I’m going to leave.
Maura: Yeah, and let’s bounce is the first example. So how else can we say, let’s go or I want to leave?
Robin: Well, there’s another expression that’s very similar and that is let’s jet.
Maura: Right, good, so let’s jet.
Robin: Let’s jet.
Maura: Just kind of like jet, like the airplane. So sometimes this expression can mean to leave quickly, like if I say, “sorry I gotta jet” means that I have to leave quickly and go somewhere else.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Culips ESL Podcast

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/slang-let%e2%80%99s-bounce/feed/ 0 In this episode, we explain many slang expressions to say “Let’s leave.” These expressions are strange and funny. Knowing these expressions can help you in your listening comprehension. If you choose to use any of the expressions they should only be ... In this episode, we explain many slang expressions to say “Let’s leave.” These expressions are strange and funny. Knowing these expressions can help you in your listening comprehension. If you choose to use any of the expressions they should only be used in a casual way with friends. Expressions we talk about in this episodes are: Let’s bounce Let’s jet Let’s blow this popstand Let’s get a move on Maura: OK, so this episode we’re really just looking at funny or clever or unusual ways to say, let’s leave, or I’m going to leave. Robin: I’m going to leave. Maura: Yeah, and let’s bounce is the first example. So how else can we say, let’s go or I want to leave? Robin: Well, there’s another expression that’s very similar and that is let’s jet. Maura: Right, good, so let’s jet. Robin: Let’s jet. Maura: Just kind of like jet, like the airplane. So sometimes this expression can mean to leave quickly, like if I say, “sorry I gotta jet” means that I have to leave quickly and go somewhere else. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Culips ESL Podcast Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:47 Expression: To bump into someone http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/expression-to-bump-into-someone/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/expression-to-bump-into-someone/#comments Mon, 10 May 2010 00:53:48 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2429 BumpInto Is bumping into someone good or bad? Both! If you bump into someone it might hurt OR it might be a happy reunion between two old friends. In this episode we look at the expression to bump into someone and to run into someone. We also give you examples of what you can say when you meet someone unexpectedly: fancy seeing you here, it was a pleasure running into you, or what a small world! After this episode you will be prepared for surprise encounters!


Harp Robin btn_lipservice.gif

Robin: What a beautiful day it is outside. Oh, the birds, the sun — WOW, Harp, how’re you doing?
Harp: I’m good. How are you?
Robin: Not bad. I can’t believe I’m bumping into you.
Harp: Yeah, it’s so random.
Robin: Shouldn’t you be at work?
Harp: I should. Today we had the day off. There was a fire alarm.
Robin: Really? I decided to take a vacation day.
Harp: Yeah, it’s a beautiful day. You’re enjoying the sunshine?
Robin: Absolutely. Yeah, well, it’s great seeing you here. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day.
Harp: Yeah, it’s nice bumping into you.
Robin: Yeah, nice bumping into you too.
Harp: OK, so that was a good example of how you can bump into someone.

Podcast/ Lipservice, Photo: victoriapeckham

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/expression-to-bump-into-someone/feed/ 1 Is bumping into someone good or bad? Both! If you bump into someone it might hurt OR it might be a happy reunion between two old friends. In this episode we look at the expression to bump into someone and to run into someone. Is bumping into someone good or bad? Both! If you bump into someone it might hurt OR it might be a happy reunion between two old friends. In this episode we look at the expression to bump into someone and to run into someone. We also give you examples of what you can say when you meet someone unexpectedly: fancy seeing you here, it was a pleasure running into you, or what a small world! After this episode you will be prepared for surprise encounters! Robin: What a beautiful day it is outside. Oh, the birds, the sun -- WOW, Harp, how’re you doing? Harp: I’m good. How are you? Robin: Not bad. I can’t believe I’m bumping into you. Harp: Yeah, it’s so random. Robin: Shouldn’t you be at work? Harp: I should. Today we had the day off. There was a fire alarm. Robin: Really? I decided to take a vacation day. Harp: Yeah, it’s a beautiful day. You’re enjoying the sunshine? Robin: Absolutely. Yeah, well, it’s great seeing you here. I hope you enjoy the rest of your day. Harp: Yeah, it’s nice bumping into you. Robin: Yeah, nice bumping into you too. Harp: OK, so that was a good example of how you can bump into someone. Podcast/ Lipservice, Photo: victoriapeckham Culips ESL Podcast clean 7:34 Do you have the guts to listen to this episode? http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/do-you-have-the-guts-to-listen-to-this-episode/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/do-you-have-the-guts-to-listen-to-this-episode/#comments Mon, 03 May 2010 10:52:50 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2414 GutsIn this episode we are looking at the word guts and gut. They look similar but they have quite different meanings! Which one means a big, fat belly? There are also other related expressions like to follow your gut or to have a gut feeling. We can also describe someone as gutsy. Listen to this episode to hear all the explanations to the ways you can use gut!


Harp Jessie btn_lipservice.gif

Harp: So now, Jessie what’s another meaning for guts?
Jessie: Well another meaning for the word guts is as a synonym for courage or bravery. So you could say that someone has a lot of guts, that doesn’t mean they have a lot of organs, it means they have a lot of courage.
Harp: So an example could be when someone goes in front of all their friends and they sing a song. It takes a lot of guts to sing in front of people.
Jessie: Yeah, it definitely takes a lot of guts. Or the people who compete on TV shows, to see who’s the best singer, that takes a lot of guts.
Harp: For sure. They’re very courageous, brave people.
Jessie: Exactly. Now, you can say that someone has a lot of guts or you can say that someone is gutsy. And that means the exact same thing.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: jemsweb

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/05/do-you-have-the-guts-to-listen-to-this-episode/feed/ 5 In this episode we are looking at the word guts and gut. They look similar but they have quite different meanings! Which one means a big, fat belly? There are also other related expressions like to follow your gut or to have a gut feeling. In this episode we are looking at the word guts and gut. They look similar but they have quite different meanings! Which one means a big, fat belly? There are also other related expressions like to follow your gut or to have a gut feeling. We can also describe someone as gutsy. Listen to this episode to hear all the explanations to the ways you can use gut! Harp: So now, Jessie what’s another meaning for guts? Jessie: Well another meaning for the word guts is as a synonym for courage or bravery. So you could say that someone has a lot of guts, that doesn’t mean they have a lot of organs, it means they have a lot of courage. Harp: So an example could be when someone goes in front of all their friends and they sing a song. It takes a lot of guts to sing in front of people. Jessie: Yeah, it definitely takes a lot of guts. Or the people who compete on TV shows, to see who’s the best singer, that takes a lot of guts. Harp: For sure. They’re very courageous, brave people. Jessie: Exactly. Now, you can say that someone has a lot of guts or you can say that someone is gutsy. And that means the exact same thing. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: jemsweb Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:50 Expression: Fishy http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/expression-fishy/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/expression-fishy/#comments Mon, 19 Apr 2010 03:46:32 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2399 fishHave you ever found someone’s story a bit suspicious? Did you ever meet someone who didn’t seem like they were who they said they were? You could say that this was fishy! In this episode we talk about the meaning of fishy, funny (different from humorous), and to say that something isn’t right. Check out this episode to get all the details!


Harp Maura btn_lipservice.gif

Harp: OK, Maura, do you know the origin of this expression?
Maura: Well, there are a few possibilities but the most interesting one is that it actually comes from the smell of a fish.
Harp: Oh, OK.
Maura: So when the fish is fresh it actually doesn’t have a strong odour. But if the fish has been dead for a few days, it starts to have this really strong fishy smell.
Harp: OK, so that’s where the expression came from.
Maura: Right, so if you see a fish and it has a very strong fish smell, you think, “I don’t know if that is a good fish.”
Harp: Right, because it’s not a fresh fish.
Maura: Yeah, you are suspicious about the fish. Maybe at the market they are saying “fresh fish,” but because of the smell, you are not sure, right?
Harp: Interesting.
Maura: Right, so now we use it to talk about anything, not fish.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Illustration: Asami Takemoto

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/expression-fishy/feed/ 1 Have you ever found someone’s story a bit suspicious? Did you ever meet someone who didn’t seem like they were who they said they were? You could say that this was fishy! In this episode we talk about the meaning of fishy, Have you ever found someone’s story a bit suspicious? Did you ever meet someone who didn’t seem like they were who they said they were? You could say that this was fishy! In this episode we talk about the meaning of fishy, funny (different from humorous), and to say that something isn’t right. Check out this episode to get all the details! Harp: OK, Maura, do you know the origin of this expression? Maura: Well, there are a few possibilities but the most interesting one is that it actually comes from the smell of a fish. Harp: Oh, OK. Maura: So when the fish is fresh it actually doesn’t have a strong odour. But if the fish has been dead for a few days, it starts to have this really strong fishy smell. Harp: OK, so that’s where the expression came from. Maura: Right, so if you see a fish and it has a very strong fish smell, you think, “I don’t know if that is a good fish.” Harp: Right, because it’s not a fresh fish. Maura: Yeah, you are suspicious about the fish. Maybe at the market they are saying “fresh fish,” but because of the smell, you are not sure, right? Harp: Interesting. Maura: Right, so now we use it to talk about anything, not fish. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Illustration: Asami Takemoto Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:42 Expression: To brush up on something http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/expression-to-brush-up-on-something/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/expression-to-brush-up-on-something/#comments Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:05:12 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2392 brushupYou might be checking out this Culips episode because you are brushing up on your English! In this episode we look at three expressions that mean exactly the same thing: to brush up on, to bone up on, to polish up on. These expressions are good to know if you are studying something you already know or refreshing some of your old skills.


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Robin: And today we have a Catch Word that is a little bit special because we got an email from Italy.
Jessie: Yeah.
Robin: From a German woman who’s teaching German and English in Italy, in fact.
Jessie: Yeah, she teaches conversation lessons.
Robin: And her name is Bernadette. We’d like to say hi Bernadette.
Jessie: Hello.
Robin: And she wanted us to do an episode about the expression to brush up on something.
Jessie: Yeah, to brush up on something. And I think that is a great phrase for our Catch Word podcast.
Robin: Absolutely. What does it mean?
Jessie: Well, to brush up on something is to refresh your memory or to relearn something, to study something that you already kind of know, but you need to improve on.

Podcast/ Lipservice, Photo: alicejamieson

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/expression-to-brush-up-on-something/feed/ 0 brush up on,expression,to bone up on,to polish up on You might be checking out this Culips episode because you are brushing up on your English! In this episode we look at three expressions that mean exactly the same thing: to brush up on, to bone up on, to polish up on. You might be checking out this Culips episode because you are brushing up on your English! In this episode we look at three expressions that mean exactly the same thing: to brush up on, to bone up on, to polish up on. These expressions are good to know if you are studying something you already know or refreshing some of your old skills. Robin: And today we have a Catch Word that is a little bit special because we got an email from Italy. Jessie: Yeah. Robin: From a German woman who’s teaching German and English in Italy, in fact. Jessie: Yeah, she teaches conversation lessons. Robin: And her name is Bernadette. We’d like to say hi Bernadette. Jessie: Hello. Robin: And she wanted us to do an episode about the expression to brush up on something. Jessie: Yeah, to brush up on something. And I think that is a great phrase for our Catch Word podcast. Robin: Absolutely. What does it mean? Jessie: Well, to brush up on something is to refresh your memory or to relearn something, to study something that you already kind of know, but you need to improve on. Podcast/ Lipservice, Photo: alicejamieson Culips ESL Podcast clean 7:31 To tear a strip off someone http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/to-tear-a-strip-off-someone/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/to-tear-a-strip-off-someone/#comments Sun, 04 Apr 2010 04:00:07 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2269 tear As Harp and Robin explain in this episode, to tear a strip off someone, is to get very upset at them and to express that emotion in a very harsh and angry way. This could involve yelling or screaming, or just very angry, mean words.

As you can imagine, literally getting a strip torn off you would be a very painful experience. Getting a strip torn off you in the idiomatic sense is often very painful in an emotional way!

Other related idioms we talk about in this episode are
-To chew someone out
-To give someone a piece of your mind

Maura Robin btn_lipservice.gif

Harp: Just last week, I was taking the bus and I was waiting at the bus stop, minding my own business, when all of a sudden this couple came to the bus stop, and she was very angry, very, very angry and she just started yelling at him, she was tearing a strip off him.
Robin: So the guy’s girlfriend was yelling at him. What was she yelling at him about?
Harp: Apparently he was cheating on her and she just found out.
Robin: OK. That’s not a conversation that you like to be having in public.
Harp: At all, ever, but in public would make it worse.

Podcast/ Lipservice, Photo: Culips ESL Podcast

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/04/to-tear-a-strip-off-someone/feed/ 0 expression As Harp and Robin explain in this episode, to tear a strip off someone, is to get very upset at them and to express that emotion in a very harsh and angry way. This could involve yelling or screaming, or just very angry, mean words. As Harp and Robin explain in this episode, to tear a strip off someone, is to get very upset at them and to express that emotion in a very harsh and angry way. This could involve yelling or screaming, or just very angry, mean words. As you can imagine, literally getting a strip torn off you would be a very painful experience. Getting a strip torn off you in the idiomatic sense is often very painful in an emotional way! Other related idioms we talk about in this episode are -To chew someone out -To give someone a piece of your mind Harp: Just last week, I was taking the bus and I was waiting at the bus stop, minding my own business, when all of a sudden this couple came to the bus stop, and she was very angry, very, very angry and she just started yelling at him, she was tearing a strip off him. Robin: So the guy’s girlfriend was yelling at him. What was she yelling at him about? Harp: Apparently he was cheating on her and she just found out. Robin: OK. That’s not a conversation that you like to be having in public. Harp: At all, ever, but in public would make it worse. Podcast/ Lipservice, Photo: Culips ESL Podcast Culips ESL Podcast clean 6:39 Expression: Two-faced http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/expression-two-faced/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/expression-two-faced/#comments Sun, 28 Mar 2010 22:24:54 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2254 twofaces In this episode we talk about a person that you do not want to be friends with. We describe a person who is two-faced! We also give examples of how a person talks behind another’s back and how someone backstabs another. If you ever find yourself in these situations you will know how to talk about it. From Culips to you, we hope you don’t have any people like this in your lives!

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Robin: Well, the first expression is to be two-faced or simply just two-faced.
Maura: Right, so two-faced.
Robin: Two-faced.
Maura: So…like, to have two faces?
Robin: Absolutely. And this means that you’re not very honest. So you present yourself in one way around some people and in another way around other people.
Maura: Right. So you might say things in one situation but then in another situation you might say the exact opposite.
Robin: I can give you an example…

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Quinn Dombrowski

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/expression-two-faced/feed/ 0 expression In this episode we talk about a person that you do not want to be friends with. We describe a person who is two-faced! We also give examples of how a person talks behind another’s back and how someone backstabs another. In this episode we talk about a person that you do not want to be friends with. We describe a person who is two-faced! We also give examples of how a person talks behind another’s back and how someone backstabs another. If you ever find yourself in these situations you will know how to talk about it. From Culips to you, we hope you don’t have any people like this in your lives! Robin: Well, the first expression is to be two-faced or simply just two-faced. Maura: Right, so two-faced. Robin: Two-faced. Maura: So…like, to have two faces? Robin: Absolutely. And this means that you’re not very honest. So you present yourself in one way around some people and in another way around other people. Maura: Right. So you might say things in one situation but then in another situation you might say the exact opposite. Robin: I can give you an example… Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Quinn Dombrowski Culips ESL Podcast clean 7:34 Slang: That’s a rip off! http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-that%e2%80%99s-a-rip-off/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-that%e2%80%99s-a-rip-off/#comments Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:05:38 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2048 ripoff Have you ever spent a lot of money on something and then felt that it was too much money? Then you may have felt ripped off! In this episode, we look at the differences between a rip off and to be ripped off. We also examine the expression highway robbery. We also look at the other side, when you buy something and get a deal or a bargain! That feels much better!

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Robin: Absolutely. Hey Harp, did you get the shoes that you were looking for?
Harp: Yeah, I got them.
Robin: Seriously, you don’t seem so happy. Were they…
Harp: I got ripped off. I paid a thousand dollars.
Robin: What? You paid a thousand dollars for those shoes?
Harp: Weren’t they on sale for seventy-five dollars?
Robin: Robin, I saw that after and I can’t return these shoes.
Harp: Wow.
Robin: I got ripped off.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Jon

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-that%e2%80%99s-a-rip-off/feed/ 2 shopping,slang Have you ever spent a lot of money on something and then felt that it was too much money? Then you may have felt ripped off! In this episode, we look at the differences between a rip off and to be ripped off. Have you ever spent a lot of money on something and then felt that it was too much money? Then you may have felt ripped off! In this episode, we look at the differences between a rip off and to be ripped off. We also examine the expression highway robbery. We also look at the other side, when you buy something and get a deal or a bargain! That feels much better! Robin: Absolutely. Hey Harp, did you get the shoes that you were looking for? Harp: Yeah, I got them. Robin: Seriously, you don’t seem so happy. Were they... Harp: I got ripped off. I paid a thousand dollars. Robin: What? You paid a thousand dollars for those shoes? Harp: Weren’t they on sale for seventy-five dollars? Robin: Robin, I saw that after and I can’t return these shoes. Harp: Wow. Robin: I got ripped off. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Jon Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:08 Slang: Party pooper http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-party-pooper/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-party-pooper/#comments Sun, 14 Mar 2010 16:52:14 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2042 partypooper Do you like to go to parties? Are there usually any party poopers? A party pooper is someone who is not having fun and does not create more fun. Another expression that we talk about is a wet blanket. That doesn’t sound like very much fun does it? How about a stick in the mud? We hope your party doesn’t have one of those!

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Maura: Can you think of any examples where you encountered a party pooper?
Harp: Yes, for sure I can think of an example. A couple of weeks ago, my friend threw a big party at their house. It was fun, everyone was laughing and then another friend came to the party. But this friend was so sick, he just sat in the corner miserable all night. He was such a party pooper.
Maura: Yeah, I think if you are sick, you are kind of a party pooper, because you are tired, you’re not feeling good.
Harp: Yeah, you’re not joining in the fun.
Maura: Yeah, sometimes you might be at a party with a lot of people having a lot of fun and then one person keeps talking about work and complaining about work. That person is kind of a party pooper, too.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Thomas Widmann

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-party-pooper/feed/ 1 Do you like to go to parties? Are there usually any party poopers? A party pooper is someone who is not having fun and does not create more fun. Another expression that we talk about is a wet blanket. That doesn’t sound like very much fun does it? Do you like to go to parties? Are there usually any party poopers? A party pooper is someone who is not having fun and does not create more fun. Another expression that we talk about is a wet blanket. That doesn’t sound like very much fun does it? How about a stick in the mud? We hope your party doesn’t have one of those! Maura: Can you think of any examples where you encountered a party pooper? Harp: Yes, for sure I can think of an example. A couple of weeks ago, my friend threw a big party at their house. It was fun, everyone was laughing and then another friend came to the party. But this friend was so sick, he just sat in the corner miserable all night. He was such a party pooper. Maura: Yeah, I think if you are sick, you are kind of a party pooper, because you are tired, you’re not feeling good. Harp: Yeah, you’re not joining in the fun. Maura: Yeah, sometimes you might be at a party with a lot of people having a lot of fun and then one person keeps talking about work and complaining about work. That person is kind of a party pooper, too. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Thomas Widmann Culips ESL Podcast clean 8:09 Slang: Wannabe http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-wannabe/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-wannabe/#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 18:26:25 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=2016 wannabeWannabe is a slang word that comes from putting the words want to be together into one word. Do you know what this word means? It has been used in many pop songs, movies and television shows. If you wanna be a natural English speaker, check out this episode!

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Maura: For sure, it’s never a good thing to call someone a wannabe.
Jessie: Right. And of course there is nothing wrong with wanting to be something, if you want to be a doctor and you’re working to be a doctor that’s great.
Maura: Right, in that case, probably no one would call you a wannabe.
Jessie: A wannabe is someone who is just pretending that they’re something they are not.
Maura: Exactly, that’s a very important distinction. So what about the word itself, wannabe, it’s kind of funny?
Jessie: Yeah, I think this slang term is actually pretty new.
Maura: Yeah, it originated sometime in the 1980s, which wasn’t that long ago.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Randy

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/03/slang-wannabe/feed/ 0 English slang,poseur,wannabe Wannabe is a slang word that comes from putting the words want to be together into one word. Do you know what this word means? It has been used in many pop songs, movies and television shows. If you wanna be a natural English speaker, Wannabe is a slang word that comes from putting the words want to be together into one word. Do you know what this word means? It has been used in many pop songs, movies and television shows. If you wanna be a natural English speaker, check out this episode! Maura: For sure, it’s never a good thing to call someone a wannabe. Jessie: Right. And of course there is nothing wrong with wanting to be something, if you want to be a doctor and you’re working to be a doctor that’s great. Maura: Right, in that case, probably no one would call you a wannabe. Jessie: A wannabe is someone who is just pretending that they’re something they are not. Maura: Exactly, that’s a very important distinction. So what about the word itself, wannabe, it’s kind of funny? Jessie: Yeah, I think this slang term is actually pretty new. Maura: Yeah, it originated sometime in the 1980s, which wasn’t that long ago. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Randy Culips ESL Podcast clean 9:33 Expression: Shrug it off http://esl.culips.com/2010/02/expression-shrug-it-off/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/02/expression-shrug-it-off/#comments Sun, 14 Feb 2010 22:23:08 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=1915 shrugIn this episode, Robin and Jessie discuss the expression to shrug something off. Check out the picture here to see an example of someone shrugging. In certain situations a person may want to shrug it off, or have to roll with the punches, and afterwards pick up the pieces. Listen to hear how all these expressions are used differently.


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Jessie: So, I know that another example that I would have at work is sometimes, if my boss says something about my work, maybe gives me some criticism, says something I could be doing better, sometimes that kind of hurts my feelings but I know that it’s just work, it’s just my job. So I try to just shrug it off, and, you know, not get upset about it, not care, just shrug it off.
Robin: Forget about it. It’s not a big deal.
Jessie: So, are there any other expressions that we can use to talk about dealing with problems?
Robin: Absolutely. Another expression that we use to deal with problems is to roll with the punches.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Illustration: Asami Takemoto

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/02/expression-shrug-it-off/feed/ 6 expression In this episode, Robin and Jessie discuss the expression to shrug something off. Check out the picture here to see an example of someone shrugging. In certain situations a person may want to shrug it off, or have to roll with the punches, In this episode, Robin and Jessie discuss the expression to shrug something off. Check out the picture here to see an example of someone shrugging. In certain situations a person may want to shrug it off, or have to roll with the punches, and afterwards pick up the pieces. Listen to hear how all these expressions are used differently. Jessie: So, I know that another example that I would have at work is sometimes, if my boss says something about my work, maybe gives me some criticism, says something I could be doing better, sometimes that kind of hurts my feelings but I know that it’s just work, it’s just my job. So I try to just shrug it off, and, you know, not get upset about it, not care, just shrug it off. Robin: Forget about it. It’s not a big deal. Jessie: So, are there any other expressions that we can use to talk about dealing with problems? Robin: Absolutely. Another expression that we use to deal with problems is to roll with the punches. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Illustration: Asami Takemoto Culips ESL Podcast clean 6:17 Slang: To bug someone http://esl.culips.com/2010/02/slang-to-bug-someone-to-get-on-one%e2%80%99s-nerves-drive-someone-crazy/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/02/slang-to-bug-someone-to-get-on-one%e2%80%99s-nerves-drive-someone-crazy/#comments Mon, 08 Feb 2010 04:16:50 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=1903 Many of you have probably heard of the word bug. Most people know it as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb, like to bug a person. Do you think that bugging a person would be good or bad? Do you think someone would like to be bugged? Check out this episode to find out!


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Harp: Yeah, a bug is an insect.
Maura: Yeah it’s a small little insect. Sometimes it has legs and wings and sometimes they fly around like zzzz.
Harp: Exactly. Some examples of bugs are mosquitoes …
Maura: Yup.
Harp: Beetles … or cockroaches …
Maura: Yup, it could also be a fly or a ladybug.
Harp: A ladybug.
Maura: That one even has the word bug in it.
Harp: Yeah, so a ladybug is red with little black dots on it.
Maura: Yeah most people … they don’t mind ladybugs.
Harp: A ladybug is the only bug I like.
Maura: Yeah, sometimes bugs can be annoying.
Harp: Exactly, which brings us to the slang definition of bug.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Movie: This Hour has 22 Minutes Cough Etiquette

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/02/slang-to-bug-someone-to-get-on-one%e2%80%99s-nerves-drive-someone-crazy/feed/ 0 Many of you have probably heard of the word bug. Most people know it as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb, like to bug a person. Do you think that bugging a person would be good or bad? Do you think someone would like to be bugged? Many of you have probably heard of the word bug. Most people know it as a noun, but it can also be used as a verb, like to bug a person. Do you think that bugging a person would be good or bad? Do you think someone would like to be bugged? Check out this episode to find out! Harp: Yeah, a bug is an insect. Maura: Yeah it’s a small little insect. Sometimes it has legs and wings and sometimes they fly around like zzzz. Harp: Exactly. Some examples of bugs are mosquitoes ... Maura: Yup. Harp: Beetles ... or cockroaches ... Maura: Yup, it could also be a fly or a ladybug. Harp: A ladybug. Maura: That one even has the word bug in it. Harp: Yeah, so a ladybug is red with little black dots on it. Maura: Yeah most people ... they don’t mind ladybugs. Harp: A ladybug is the only bug I like. Maura: Yeah, sometimes bugs can be annoying. Harp: Exactly, which brings us to the slang definition of bug. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Movie: This Hour has 22 Minutes Cough Etiquette Culips ESL Podcast clean 7:21 Slang: Chicken! http://esl.culips.com/2010/01/slang-chicken/ http://esl.culips.com/2010/01/slang-chicken/#comments Mon, 01 Feb 2010 02:18:06 +0000 Culips http://esl.culips.com/?p=1883 chickenAre you a chicken? In this episode we look at a familiar word but show you how it can be used in another way. Most of you probably know that a chicken is a kind of bird. And you can also probably imagine a chicken dinner. There is another funny way that we use chicken in English. Check it out here…or are you a chicken?


Harp Maura btn_lipservice.gif

Maura: Bawk, bawk, bawk, Chicken!
Harp: Yes, our Catchword today is chicken.
Maura: Which for many of you listening out there…I’m sure you are thinking, “I already know the word chicken. It’s an animal.” But we do use it in another way.
Harp: Exactly, there is slang use for chicken.
Maura: Exactly. So you already know the original meaning of the word, which is the animal, but in English sometimes we use chicken to describe a person who is very afraid of something.
Harp: Yeah, someone who is scared of things.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Stephen Woods

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2010/01/slang-chicken/feed/ 7 slang Are you a chicken? In this episode we look at a familiar word but show you how it can be used in another way. Most of you probably know that a chicken is a kind of bird. And you can also probably imagine a chicken dinner. Are you a chicken? In this episode we look at a familiar word but show you how it can be used in another way. Most of you probably know that a chicken is a kind of bird. And you can also probably imagine a chicken dinner. There is another funny way that we use chicken in English. Check it out here…or are you a chicken? Maura: Bawk, bawk, bawk, Chicken! Harp: Yes, our Catchword today is chicken. Maura: Which for many of you listening out there…I’m sure you are thinking, “I already know the word chicken. It’s an animal.” But we do use it in another way. Harp: Exactly, there is slang use for chicken. Maura: Exactly. So you already know the original meaning of the word, which is the animal, but in English sometimes we use chicken to describe a person who is very afraid of something. Harp: Yeah, someone who is scared of things. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Stephen Woods Culips ESL Podcast clean 9:03 Expression: Corny http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-corny/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-corny/#comments Mon, 30 Nov 2009 03:05:23 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=1228 corny Sometimes movies are corny, or music is corny. It is a fun adjective that can describe just about anything. A synonym for corny is cheesy, and it has nothing to do with cheese! Check out this episode to hear our corny examples.


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Harp: Corny.
Jessie: I like it.
Harp: I like it as well.
Jessie: So, does that mean having to do with corn?
Harp: Um, no, not at all.
Jessie: What does it mean?
Harp: Something that is corny is something that is cliché, unoriginal; it’s oldfashioned.
Jessie: OK, so corny is an adjective describing something that’s not very sophisticated, maybe kind of sentimental.
Harp: Yeah, exactly.
Jessie: Not original.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: flydime

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-corny/feed/ 4 expression Sometimes movies are corny, or music is corny. It is a fun adjective that can describe just about anything. A synonym for corny is cheesy, and it has nothing to do with cheese! Check out this episode to hear our corny examples. Sometimes movies are corny, or music is corny. It is a fun adjective that can describe just about anything. A synonym for corny is cheesy, and it has nothing to do with cheese! Check out this episode to hear our corny examples. Harp: Corny. Jessie: I like it. Harp: I like it as well. Jessie: So, does that mean having to do with corn? Harp: Um, no, not at all. Jessie: What does it mean? Harp: Something that is corny is something that is cliché, unoriginal; it’s oldfashioned. Jessie: OK, so corny is an adjective describing something that’s not very sophisticated, maybe kind of sentimental. Harp: Yeah, exactly. Jessie: Not original. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: flydime Culips ESL Podcast clean 6:48 Expression: Down-to-earth http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-down-to-earth/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-down-to-earth/#comments Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:24:43 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=923 Down-to-earthAre you a down-to-earth person or do you often have you head in the clouds? Are you realistic and sensible or are you a dreamer? In this episode we look at expressions used to describe people. Armando sent us a question about the expression down-to-earth and we decided to dedicate an episode to it and its synonyms, grounded and feet on the ground. Thanks Armando!

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Harp: Right, so someone who is down-to-earth has all of these qualities and you can find out definitions to each of them on the Lipservice. Should we give some examples of how to use down-to-earth?

Jessie: Right, well, my friend Becky for instance is really down-to-earth. She never shows off or acts like she is better than other people. She is just honest and she always just acts genuine and real.

Harp: OK, that makes sense. She is a down-to-earth person.

Jessie: Right, but my cousin on the other hand…He tells everyone that he is a down-to-earth guy but he spends all his time dreaming about being a movie star. He is always dreaming about being something else.

Harp: So, he is not down-to-earth at all.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Quasic

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-down-to-earth/feed/ 4 Are you a down-to-earth person or do you often have you head in the clouds? Are you realistic and sensible or are you a dreamer? In this episode we look at expressions used to describe people. Armando sent us a question about the expression down-to-ea... Are you a down-to-earth person or do you often have you head in the clouds? Are you realistic and sensible or are you a dreamer? In this episode we look at expressions used to describe people. Armando sent us a question about the expression down-to-earth and we decided to dedicate an episode to it and its synonyms, grounded and feet on the ground. Thanks Armando! Harp: Right, so someone who is down-to-earth has all of these qualities and you can find out definitions to each of them on the Lipservice. Should we give some examples of how to use down-to-earth? Jessie: Right, well, my friend Becky for instance is really down-to-earth. She never shows off or acts like she is better than other people. She is just honest and she always just acts genuine and real. Harp: OK, that makes sense. She is a down-to-earth person. Jessie: Right, but my cousin on the other hand...He tells everyone that he is a down-to-earth guy but he spends all his time dreaming about being a movie star. He is always dreaming about being something else. Harp: So, he is not down-to-earth at all. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Quasic Culips ESL Podcast clean 6:07 Expression: To be caught red-handed http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-to-be-caught-red-handed/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-to-be-caught-red-handed/#comments Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:16:14 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=918 red-handedWhen people commit crimes sometimes they get caught! That person may be caught in the act of doing it, and if you are caught in the act then we can say that you were caught red-handed. Another similar expression that is almost never used in a serious way is to be caught with your hand in the cookie jar. We give you lots of examples of being caught doing something and how to use the expressions here.

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Jessie: So the phrase being caught red-handed is actually an old phrase and was probably first used in Scotland. And it was actually pretty serious because it was about murdering somebody.

Maura: Right, yeah.

Jessie: If you murder somebody you might get blood on your hands. Your hands would be red and if somebody saw you, they would know that you were the murderer.

Maura: Right, if you have the blood on your hands of the person who was killed, then probably you killed that person.

Jessie: Right, but today we can use this in a more light-hearted way too.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo credit: Chief Trent

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-to-be-caught-red-handed/feed/ 6 expression When people commit crimes sometimes they get caught! That person may be caught in the act of doing it, and if you are caught in the act then we can say that you were caught red-handed. Another similar expression that is almost never used in a serious... When people commit crimes sometimes they get caught! That person may be caught in the act of doing it, and if you are caught in the act then we can say that you were caught red-handed. Another similar expression that is almost never used in a serious way is to be caught with your hand in the cookie jar. We give you lots of examples of being caught doing something and how to use the expressions here. Jessie: So the phrase being caught red-handed is actually an old phrase and was probably first used in Scotland. And it was actually pretty serious because it was about murdering somebody. Maura: Right, yeah. Jessie: If you murder somebody you might get blood on your hands. Your hands would be red and if somebody saw you, they would know that you were the murderer. Maura: Right, if you have the blood on your hands of the person who was killed, then probably you killed that person. Jessie: Right, but today we can use this in a more light-hearted way too. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo credit: Chief Trent Culips ESL Podcast clean Expression: All talk (and no action) http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-all-talk-and-no-action/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-all-talk-and-no-action/#comments Mon, 02 Nov 2009 02:03:49 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=913 alltalkDo you talk about doing something but never do it? Then other people might be saying that you are all talk. People can be all talk at work, or they can be all talk about some plans they have for their future. Do you think that being all talk is a good thing?

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Harp: Yeah, the full expression is to be all talk and no action. So they talk about it but they don’t take any action.

Maura: So this is a more literal expression, you can see the meaning in it.

Harp: Exactly.

Maura: But usually or sometimes we don’t say the full expression we just say that someone is all talk.

Harp: Yeah exactly. Sometimes people say something but they never have the intention of doing it.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Duncan Rawlinson

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/11/expression-all-talk-and-no-action/feed/ 6 Do you talk about doing something but never do it? Then other people might be saying that you are all talk. People can be all talk at work, or they can be all talk about some plans they have for their future. Do you talk about doing something but never do it? Then other people might be saying that you are all talk. People can be all talk at work, or they can be all talk about some plans they have for their future. Do you think that being all talk is a good thing? Harp: Yeah, the full expression is to be all talk and no action. So they talk about it but they don’t take any action. Maura: So this is a more literal expression, you can see the meaning in it. Harp: Exactly. Maura: But usually or sometimes we don’t say the full expression we just say that someone is all talk. Harp: Yeah exactly. Sometimes people say something but they never have the intention of doing it. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Duncan Rawlinson Culips ESL Podcast clean Expression: Wing it http://esl.culips.com/2009/10/expression-wing-it/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/10/expression-wing-it/#comments Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:40:04 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=910 wingitAt Culips, we plan our episodes in advance, we don’t just wing it. You can be specific and say that people can wing presentations or speeches, or you can simply say “wing it.” When you are not prepared, but you have to do something, you should try winging it.

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Maura: Let’s give a dialogue example, OK. Hey Harp, how was work today?
Harp: It was good. I had a presentation to give.
Maura: Oh really?
Harp: Yeah, I didn’t have any time to prepare for it so I had to wing it.
Maura: How did it go?
Harp: It went really well. I was on the spot, I improvised and people really enjoyed it.
Maura: Yeah, some people don’t need to prepare in advance.
Harp: I usually do but this time I winged it and it worked.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: D’Arcy Norman

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/10/expression-wing-it/feed/ 6 expression At Culips, we plan our episodes in advance, we don’t just wing it. You can be specific and say that people can wing presentations or speeches, or you can simply say “wing it.” When you are not prepared, but you have to do something, At Culips, we plan our episodes in advance, we don’t just wing it. You can be specific and say that people can wing presentations or speeches, or you can simply say “wing it.” When you are not prepared, but you have to do something, you should try winging it. Maura: Let’s give a dialogue example, OK. Hey Harp, how was work today? Harp: It was good. I had a presentation to give. Maura: Oh really? Harp: Yeah, I didn’t have any time to prepare for it so I had to wing it. Maura: How did it go? Harp: It went really well. I was on the spot, I improvised and people really enjoyed it. Maura: Yeah, some people don’t need to prepare in advance. Harp: I usually do but this time I winged it and it worked. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: D'Arcy Norman Culips ESL Podcast clean Expression: Handy http://esl.culips.com/2009/10/expression-handy/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/10/expression-handy/#comments Sun, 04 Oct 2009 05:09:12 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=902 handyAre you handy? Yes, this little expression is connected to hands and your ability to use yours well. Handy can be used to talk about a person or thing, but it is used a little bit differently. It is very handy to know many English expressions, so listen to this episode to learn another one!

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Robin: OK, so for example if someone can build a house or can fix things, repair things around the house they can be a very handy person?
Jessie: Exactly. For example, if someone knows how to fix a toilet if it stops working, you would say they are a very handy person.
Robin: OK, so they are handy because we need to use the toilet and if they can fix it so it’s working, they are handy.
Jessie: Right, so usually when we fix things around the house, little jobs that you are using your hands. So in my mind that makes sense why you are calling the person handy.
Robin: OK, so someone who is very good with their hands and very useful, we can actually call them a handyman.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Windell Oskay

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/10/expression-handy/feed/ 9 Are you handy? Yes, this little expression is connected to hands and your ability to use yours well. Handy can be used to talk about a person or thing, but it is used a little bit differently. It is very handy to know many English expressions, Are you handy? Yes, this little expression is connected to hands and your ability to use yours well. Handy can be used to talk about a person or thing, but it is used a little bit differently. It is very handy to know many English expressions, so listen to this episode to learn another one! Robin: OK, so for example if someone can build a house or can fix things, repair things around the house they can be a very handy person? Jessie: Exactly. For example, if someone knows how to fix a toilet if it stops working, you would say they are a very handy person. Robin: OK, so they are handy because we need to use the toilet and if they can fix it so it’s working, they are handy. Jessie: Right, so usually when we fix things around the house, little jobs that you are using your hands. So in my mind that makes sense why you are calling the person handy. Robin: OK, so someone who is very good with their hands and very useful, we can actually call them a handyman. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Windell Oskay Culips ESL Podcast clean To bite off more than you can chew http://esl.culips.com/2009/09/to-bite-off-more-than-you-can-chew/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/09/to-bite-off-more-than-you-can-chew/#comments Sun, 27 Sep 2009 01:06:55 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=898 biteoffIf you bite off more than you can chew things might be difficult for you. This expression might sound like it is talking about eating but – don’t be fooled – it is not. Another expression with a similar meaning is to get in over your head. You can use both of these expressions when you agree to do something and then find that it is too difficult.

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Jessie: Well, to bite off more than you can chew is to commit to doing something that you can’t actually do. It’s too much for you to actually do.
Maura: Right! So you get involved in something, but it’s more difficult than you realized and maybe too difficult for you.
Jessie: Right! Or maybe you take more responsibility than you can actually handle.
Maura: Right! So, if you imagine that you bite a piece of food and it’s a very, very big piece, it will be difficult to chew the food.
Jessie: Right! So, when we’re talking about this as an idiom, you can imagine that you’re agreeing to do something, but then you can’t actually do it. Just like you’re biting the food, but you can’t actually chew it.
Maura: Right, because it’s too much or too difficult.
Jessie: Exactly! So, for instance, if I agreed to arm wrestle Arnold Schwarzenegger, I would be biting off more than I can chew.
Maura: I think you would definitely be biting off more than you can chew because Arnold Schwarzenegger is pretty strong.
Jessie: Yeah, he’s probably a lot stronger than me.
Maura: And a lot stronger than me, too.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo credit: Dave 77459

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/09/to-bite-off-more-than-you-can-chew/feed/ 2 ESL Podcast,expression,idiom If you bite off more than you can chew things might be difficult for you. This expression might sound like it is talking about eating but – don’t be fooled – it is not. Another expression with a similar meaning is to get in over your head. If you bite off more than you can chew things might be difficult for you. This expression might sound like it is talking about eating but – don’t be fooled – it is not. Another expression with a similar meaning is to get in over your head. You can use both of these expressions when you agree to do something and then find that it is too difficult. Jessie: Well, to bite off more than you can chew is to commit to doing something that you can’t actually do. It’s too much for you to actually do. Maura: Right! So you get involved in something, but it’s more difficult than you realized and maybe too difficult for you. Jessie: Right! Or maybe you take more responsibility than you can actually handle. Maura: Right! So, if you imagine that you bite a piece of food and it’s a very, very big piece, it will be difficult to chew the food. Jessie: Right! So, when we’re talking about this as an idiom, you can imagine that you’re agreeing to do something, but then you can’t actually do it. Just like you’re biting the food, but you can’t actually chew it. Maura: Right, because it’s too much or too difficult. Jessie: Exactly! So, for instance, if I agreed to arm wrestle Arnold Schwarzenegger, I would be biting off more than I can chew. Maura: I think you would definitely be biting off more than you can chew because Arnold Schwarzenegger is pretty strong. Jessie: Yeah, he’s probably a lot stronger than me. Maura: And a lot stronger than me, too. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo credit: Dave 77459 Culips ESL Podcast clean Expression: To put your foot in your mouth http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-to-put-your-foot-in-your-mouth/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-to-put-your-foot-in-your-mouth/#comments Mon, 31 Aug 2009 04:13:31 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=859 putFootSometimes we embarrass ourselves by saying something stupid. You can say, I embarrassed myself by saying something stupid or you can say I put my foot in my mouth. In this episode we look at that expression and also to make a fool of myself. Both of these expressions are used for embarrassing behaviour. Listen to this episode to hear our examples of situations most people consider embarrassing.

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Maura: Today’s expression is to put your foot in your mouth. It’s a long one.
Harp: Yeah, I like this one as well. So, this is to put your foot in your mouth.
Maura: Right. So the meaning of this expression is to embarrass yourself by something you that you say.
Harp: And this can also make others uncomfortable or embarrassed too.
Maura: Right! So you say something stupid or strange and it creates an uncomfortable situation.
Harp: Yeah. If you imagine trying to actually put your foot in your mouth, it would be embarrassing, and make you look stupid.
Maura: Yeah, I think for most people it would be a very difficult thing to do, to put your foot in your mouth.
Harp: Exactly!
Maura: So, the result is really the same. In both cases, whether you say something stupid or you try to put your foot in your mouth, you are embarrassed and you look stupid.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Jo Jakeman

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-to-put-your-foot-in-your-mouth/feed/ 5 expression Sometimes we embarrass ourselves by saying something stupid. You can say, I embarrassed myself by saying something stupid or you can say I put my foot in my mouth. In this episode we look at that expression and also to make a fool of myself. Sometimes we embarrass ourselves by saying something stupid. You can say, I embarrassed myself by saying something stupid or you can say I put my foot in my mouth. In this episode we look at that expression and also to make a fool of myself. Both of these expressions are used for embarrassing behaviour. Listen to this episode to hear our examples of situations most people consider embarrassing. Maura: Today's expression is to put your foot in your mouth. It's a long one. Harp: Yeah, I like this one as well. So, this is to put your foot in your mouth. Maura: Right. So the meaning of this expression is to embarrass yourself by something you that you say. Harp: And this can also make others uncomfortable or embarrassed too. Maura: Right! So you say something stupid or strange and it creates an uncomfortable situation. Harp: Yeah. If you imagine trying to actually put your foot in your mouth, it would be embarrassing, and make you look stupid. Maura: Yeah, I think for most people it would be a very difficult thing to do, to put your foot in your mouth. Harp: Exactly! Maura: So, the result is really the same. In both cases, whether you say something stupid or you try to put your foot in your mouth, you are embarrassed and you look stupid. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Jo Jakeman Culips ESL Podcast clean Expression: Off the hook http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-off-the-hook/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-off-the-hook/#comments Sat, 22 Aug 2009 19:13:05 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=851 OffTheHookHave you ever been in trouble? If you have been in trouble, then you have probably wanted to be out of trouble too! In this episode we look at expressions that mean out of trouble, like off the hook and in the clear. Listen and find out how we use them!

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Maura: OK, so let’s give an example for this definition.
Harp: OK.
Maura: A friend of mine was actually arrested by the police recently, Harp.
Harp: Really?
Maura: Yeah, for robbing a bank.
Harp: Wow, I didn’t know that you hung around those sorts of people.
Maura: Well, actually I don’t. My friend didn’t do it. So after a couple hours the police saw that it wasn’t my friend that did it, so then my friend was off the hook.
Harp: OK, so, your friend was no longer blamed for robbing the bank.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Illustration: Asami

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-off-the-hook/feed/ 6 Have you ever been in trouble? If you have been in trouble, then you have probably wanted to be out of trouble too! In this episode we look at expressions that mean out of trouble, like off the hook and in the clear. Listen and find out how we use them! Have you ever been in trouble? If you have been in trouble, then you have probably wanted to be out of trouble too! In this episode we look at expressions that mean out of trouble, like off the hook and in the clear. Listen and find out how we use them! Maura: OK, so let’s give an example for this definition. Harp: OK. Maura: A friend of mine was actually arrested by the police recently, Harp. Harp: Really? Maura: Yeah, for robbing a bank. Harp: Wow, I didn’t know that you hung around those sorts of people. Maura: Well, actually I don’t. My friend didn’t do it. So after a couple hours the police saw that it wasn’t my friend that did it, so then my friend was off the hook. Harp: OK, so, your friend was no longer blamed for robbing the bank. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Illustration: Asami Culips ESL Podcast clean Expression: To push someone’s buttons http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-to-put-someones-buttons/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-to-put-someones-buttons/#comments Sun, 09 Aug 2009 01:52:03 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=834 pushbuttonOf course we all need to push some buttons to turn on a computer or our MP3 players. But to push someone’s buttons has a very different meaning from that literal meaning. In fact, it’s usually not a good idea to push someone’s buttons! In this episode, we look at three expressions, to push buttons, to have had enough and to freak out.

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Robin: You pester them, you bother them, you annoy them. And often times after you push someone’s buttons, they get upset.
Harp: Exactly.
Robin: They get upset. And there’s another expression that we use when we get very upset, when someone has pushed our buttons and we can’t tolerate it any longer. What is that expression?
Harp: This expression is to have enough or to have had enough.
Robin: Absolutely to have had enough. I have had enough, I can’t take it any longer. I’m mad and you have pushed my buttons.

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Original photo: Blake Emrys, Arranged by Asami

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-to-put-someones-buttons/feed/ 4 ESL Podcast Of course we all need to push some buttons to turn on a computer or our MP3 players. But to push someone’s buttons has a very different meaning from that literal meaning. In fact, it’s usually not a good idea to push someone’s buttons! In this episode, Of course we all need to push some buttons to turn on a computer or our MP3 players. But to push someone’s buttons has a very different meaning from that literal meaning. In fact, it’s usually not a good idea to push someone’s buttons! In this episode, we look at three expressions, to push buttons, to have had enough and to freak out. Robin: You pester them, you bother them, you annoy them. And often times after you push someone’s buttons, they get upset. Harp: Exactly. Robin: They get upset. And there’s another expression that we use when we get very upset, when someone has pushed our buttons and we can’t tolerate it any longer. What is that expression? Harp: This expression is to have enough or to have had enough. Robin: Absolutely to have had enough. I have had enough, I can’t take it any longer. I’m mad and you have pushed my buttons. Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo: Original photo: Blake Emrys, Arranged by Asami Culips ESL Podcast clean 5:27 Expression: Mum’s the word http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-mums-the-word/ http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-mums-the-word/#comments Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:22:58 +0000 The Culips Team http://esl.culips.com/?p=825 mumIf you want to tell someone to keep something a secret or promise to keep a secret for someone else you can use this expression: mum’s the word. At first it seems like a strange expression…mum is the word? Weird. But you will see it is not so complicated when we explain the possible origin of this expression and the meaning of mum.

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Jessie: The reason we say mum’s the word when we say don’t tell anyone my secret is because if you close your mouth and you’re keeping a secret, imagine how you would sound if you were trying to talk while you’re closing your mouth,
Maura: Mmmm mum mmm.
Jessie: Right. If your lips are closed you can’t make any words, all you can make is a kind of mmmum sound.
Maura: Right ,exactly. So you can’t tell the secret because your mouth is closed.
Jessie: And they think that the first time that was ever used was in a Shakespeare play.
Maura: Oh really?
Jessie: Yeah they said, “Seal up your lips and give no words but mum.”

Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo credit: Jehane

]]> http://esl.culips.com/2009/08/expression-mums-the-word/feed/ 1 ESL Podcast,expression If you want to tell someone to keep something a secret or promise to keep a secret for someone else you can use this expression: mum’s the word. At first it seems like a strange expression…mum is the word? Weird. If you want to tell someone to keep something a secret or promise to keep a secret for someone else you can use this expression: mum’s the word. At first it seems like a strange expression…mum is the word? Weird. But you will see it is not so complicated when we explain the possible origin of this expression and the meaning of mum. Jessie: The reason we say mum’s the word when we say don’t tell anyone my secret is because if you close your mouth and you’re keeping a secret, imagine how you would sound if you were trying to talk while you’re closing your mouth, Maura: Mmmm mum mmm. Jessie: Right. If your lips are closed you can’t make any words, all you can make is a kind of mmmum sound. Maura: Right ,exactly. So you can’t tell the secret because your mouth is closed. Jessie: And they think that the first time that was ever used was in a Shakespeare play. Maura: Oh really? Jessie: Yeah they said, “Seal up your lips and give no words but mum.” Podcast/ Lipservice: Culips ESL Podcast, Photo credit: Jehane Culips ESL Podcast clean 6:04