I went driving with my two cousins this summer.
We were going to a mall to do a little shopping. I had heard that my cousin, Delilah, had some bad luck since she had started driving 2 years earlier. She had been in a few accidents and had "totaled" one vehicle entirely.
I was not afraid of her luck so we got into the car. As she backed out of the driveway, I felt perfectly comfortable. That was soon to change. She got onto the highway and we "headed" into town. Her speed continued to increase until we were going 20 km over the limit. She was a real "lead foot". I did ask her why she had her "pedal to the metal" but she just laughed. I told her she could continue if she wanted but should a police car "pull her over", I would not "have her back". She laughed again and we continued on to the mall. We arrived safely, "no thanks to" her driving.
1) "totaled" - We understand that the word "total" means complete or entire. "What did your groceries total?" means "What was the final amount of money you paid for your groceries?". However, it is very common to discuss things that have been severely damaged as "totaled". A car that was in an accident and is either not able to be driven or is unsafe to drive will be called "totaled". So, in this case, we can equate the word "totaled" to the word demolished.
In the figurative sense, we use the word "totaled" to describe anything that we have "destroyed" or left in a state of disrepair. This can be an emotional, physical or suggested destruction. For example, we can say that we "totaled" a buffet at lunch if we ate a large amount of food. We can say that we were "totaled" after a long day of meetings at work if we are very tired or emotionally drained. And we can also say we got "totaled" at the party. The last example is suggesting that we lost all control due to alcohol consumption.
2) "headed" into - We've discussed to "head" before. This is discussing direction. We can "head" towards the office or the mall or home. The idea is that the direction we are going is the direction or where we are "heading".
A footballer will "head" the ball by hitting the ball with his head. This move is often called a "header". Sometimes we will use an extremely similar sounding expression when we tell someone we have to leave. You might hear someone say they have to "head 'er" as they are getting up to leave. This means they have to "head" home (go in the direction of home).
3) a "lead foot" - "Lead foot" is a term we use for someone who drives very fast. The suggestion is that they have actual lead in their driving shoe or foot and so they apply more pressure to the accelerator of the vehicle. There isn't any other use of this term that I can think of unless you want to use the term figuratively. You might want to suggest great speed relating to some other event or action. If you want to suggest that your assistant hurries to finish their work on Friday afternoons, you might say you assistant is a real "lead foot" when it comes to working on Friday afternoons. I wouldn't say that this is a very common expression outside of driving.
4) "pedal to the metal" - This is another expression for driving very fast. The suggestion is that you are pressing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor of the vehicle or to the metal frame on the bottom of the vehicle. This phrase can be used more commonly outside of a driving incident. Any time you want to suggest someone move or work quickly you can tell them to "put the pedal to the metal". You can tell your daughter to "put the pedal to the metal" when she is washing the dishes. You can also tell you boss that you will "put the pedal to the metal" when you want them to understand you are going to do your assignment as quickly as possible to meet the deadline.
5) to "pull her over" - Police "pull cars over" when the driver has done something wrong. For example, if you are driving along and the car in front of you is speeding, when you pass a police car you should not be surprised when the car in front of you is "pulled over". The action of "pulling someone over" is to indicate to them that you want them to stop driving and move to the side of the road.
We can use this phrase figuratively too. If you want to make sure that someone stops talking or whatever they are doing so that they will listen and pay attention to you, you can tell them to "pull over". This clearly suggests that you want them to stop. Because this is a power move, you can only use this phrase to someone you have power over. You cannot use this phrase with a superior because it would be considered rude. I think it is generally rude unless you are in a joking situation with someone. Maybe you are with your friends and you are discussing a subject, but then one of your friends makes a statement about his recent night out with his ex. You can say to the group of people talking, "OK, everybody pull over" so that you can make everyone stop talking and you can focus attention on the person you want everyone to hear from - the guy who went out with his ex and wants to talk about it.
6) to "have someone's back" - Always an expression used in a difficult situation where someone needs or could use assistance to win. The literal idea is that if your friend is in a physical fight, then you as their friend will watch or "have their back" meaning that you will make sure no one can attack your friend from behind (the back) while they are fighting face-to-face with another attacker. In general, this expression is used whenever someone wants to suggest that they support their friend. You can say to a friend going into an exam, going to court to fight a traffic ticket, getting a divorce or just preparing to talk to the boss about a pay raise that you "have their back" to tell them you support what they are doing. If any question arrises to put your friend's actions or words into question/doubt, then you would have to show your support by talking to whomever is questioning your friend to prove you have their back.
7) "no thanks to" something/someone - If you say "thanks to" someone/something you are giving them credit for something. Your mother could tell you how nice your new haircut looks and you could say, "My hair looks this good thanks to my friend Tom who is a stylist". So "no thanks to" someone/something is the opposite expression. Again, if your mother tells you your hair looks good you could say "Yes, no thanks to Jennifer who used to cut my hair. Tom helped me with this style".
The example in the above story, "We arrived safely, no thanks to her driving.", indicates that I give no credit to the driving abilities of my cousin but some other factor when referring to our safe arrival. Perhaps a guardian angel. At the office, your boss might tell you what a great job your team did on a project. You could say, "The project is finished no thanks to our team member, Joshua." if you wanted to make clear to your boss that Joshua did not work well on the project. Joshua doesn't deserve any credit for the work, in your opinion, and so he deserves "no thanks".
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Hot or Not? What is the question?
I'm reading a book and one of the characters just said "You don't look so hot." to the main character. Is that good or bad? Sometimes I don't feel so hot, so what should I do? Should I heat something up or cool something down?
You could go to a good salon and get a makeover. Then you would look and feel hot. Maybe that good-looking someone you have been trying to "catch the eye of" will come up to you with a big smile and say, "Wow, you look hot". Is that good?
Can coffee or soup look hot? Yes. Can a car look hot? Yes. Does it mean the same thing when you say soup looks hot compared to a car looking hot? No. Not usually.
And what if someone yells out their car window, "Hey, Hot Stuff!", is that the same as someone carrying a bowl of steaming food yelling "Look out! I'm carrying hot stuff"?
---- Hot has two main meanings in English today. 1) It can be literal, suggesting high temperature as in, "It is 30 degrees Celsius outside. The temperature outside is hot". 2) It can be used figuratively suggesting sexiness/attractiveness or excitement of some kind. That is how a new, shiny car can look "hot". This means the car's appearance is exciting to the viewer. It is similar to actual high temperature "hot" because when we get very excited about something our physical temperature usually raises.
Sometimes English is very confusing, especially when colloquialisms (words or phrases used in casual conversation) are involved.
1) "You don't look so hot." - This is said to someone who looks ill or very unhappy about something. If your hair is a mess and your nose is red because you are sick, then someone can tell you that you "don't look so hot". You do need the word "so" in the statement. Otherwise, your statement would be "you don't look hot" which could be understood as temperature "hot" or attractiveness "hot".
If you are feeling sick after eating a meal, you could say "I don't feel so hot". This suggests that you are ill.
2) "I feel hot." OR "You look hot."- Depending on the circumstances, this can suggest either temperature or attractiveness. English frequently depends on the situation in which it is being spoken and who is listening to the speaker.
If you say that you are feeling "hot" when you are outside in a park, it seems obvious that you are describing your feeling of high temperature.
However, if you say you feel "hot" when you are wearing your best nightclub clothes, then you mean that you feel sexy or very attractive in those clothes. If you tell your friend that their new hairstyle looks "hot", you again are talking about attractiveness.
3) "Hot Stuff" OR "hot stuff" - "Hot Stuff" is an expression from the seventies. You would use it to describe anyone looking very attractive.
If you are talking about carrying some "hot stuff" into the dining room, you are talking about something that has a high temperature. For example, if you tell your child to not touch the oven door because it is "hot stuff", you mean the temperature is high and therefore dangerous.
4) to "catch the eye of" someone - This is an expression based on a literal movement. If you are trying to attract someone by wearing sexy clothing or if you are trying to attract someone's attention by waving your arms in the air, you are trying to catch their eye. The physical movement of someone turning their head or moving their eye so that they can focus on you (or something else interesting) is termed "catching their eye" because their mind and focus are held (caught). You could ask your friend where they bought their new hat. Your friend might say, "I was walking to the train and while I was passing a shop, the hat caught my eye". This means that your friend's focus was shifted, not by any specific action taken by the hat, but by its appearance (colour, style, shape, etc.).
Saturday, November 6, 2010
How to Get Rich Quick
Last Wednesday I was kidnapped by my father. Not really. I went with him to a town situated between the two large towns in our province so we could go watch a seminar series on building wealth.
Someone's wealth was built that day but it wasn't mine. The seminar started at 6pm and by 5:30pm there were a good-sized group of "pigeons" waiting at the door. I know this because we were also there early. What the seminar would describe to us was supposed to "blow you away" and we would definitely want to "pick up whatever they would be laying down".
Since we had a little time before the seminar, we went to have supper at the hotel's restaurant. Lucky for us we did. When we returned to the seminar room, it was "standing room only". The speaker began telling stories of how he built his own wealth and how we could purchase a class to find out how to do the same. They only had 9 places in the class so we had to act quick. The class, at this one time only offer, was discounted from $6,000.00 to $2,000.00. Wow, what a bargain! At the break (2 hours+ later) we were offered a granola bar for a snack. Unbelievable! These people were talking about all the million dollar deals they were making daily and then we were offered a granola bar for supper.
In the end, they sold all 9 seats in their first class for $2,000.00 and the 9 seats in the second class at $1,250.00 each, for a grand total of $29,250.00. The cost for the room we were in was maybe $500.00 and if you add in the cost of the water (available at the back of the room), $0.00, and the cost of the snacks, maybe $20.00, you get a final intake of about $28, 730.00. Even if the classes offered cost them $2,000.00, they still "come out ahead" at $26,730.00. So whose wealth was built that night?
1) a "pigeon" OR a "sucker" OR a "mark"- "There is a pigeon born every minute" OR "There is a sucker born every minute". This is an expression that isn't discussing actual flying pigeons. The suggestion is that pigeons are not very smart and they like to be in groups, i.e. do what the other pigeons are doing. So if you are someone who wants to convince someone to give you money or to purchase something above the actual worth of the product, you must look for a "pigeon". A "pigeon" is someone who wants to believe that they have knowledge that they do not and so they will pretend to understand what the salesperson is saying just to belong. This "pigeon" will purchase a car that is broken for full price. They will buy a new sweater for ten times the regular retail price because they believe the salesperson when they tell the "pigeon" that the sweater has magical powers. Essentially a pigeon, a sucker and a mark are all very gullible people who will buy whatever you tell them to. A disreputable salesperson will always want to talk to the pigeons before they try talking to the informed shopper.
2) to "blow you away" OR to be "blown away" - This expression suggests a bomb exploding or a very strong wind that would physically move your body and therefore mind. We use this expression anytime we want to suggest that the information we have to share is amazing and will shock the listener. Usually, this is a good thing. If you have gone on a buying trip for work, and your boss asks you what you paid for your samples, you can say "You will be blown away be the prices". When you read a mystery book and it reveals the reason for the killer's actions, you could say you were "blown away" by that information.
You can also say that something can "blow your mind". Again, this suggests amazement. The expression does have a drug-related connotation because some drugs (not alcohol) can change your perception and therefore what your mind perceives. You can use this expression at work if you are sure that what you are about to demonstrate will be new and surprising information for your audience. You could tell the client at your advertising firm that the new ad campaign will "blow her mind" because it is so revolutionary.
3) to "pick up what someone is laying down" - A slightly dated expression that can refer to a dog that follows a scent to a lost object. We use this to describe the idea that everything that is about to be said is important or exciting information that needs to be understood and considered valuable. It can be used at least 2 ways. 1) You can ask someone, like a subordinate at work, if they are "picking up what you are putting (OR laying) down" because they do not seem to be listening to you. The idea is that because of your greater experience at the job, you have good information to share. You can also tell someone to make sure they "pick up what you lay down" because you are offering a gift of your knowledge and the listener would be wise to take the valuable information and learn it. 2) If you are at work and the boss is questioning whether you are listening, you can say "I am picking up what you are laying down" to assure the boss that not only are you listening but that the information being given is also being valued.
4) "standing room only" - This term is literal but can be used figuratively. If a room has a limited number of chairs and every chair is full, then any other individuals in the room would have to stand. Hence, the room was "standing room only". Figuratively, the expression suggests an unexpected number of participants in any activity. For example, if you expect about 20 workers to attend your talk on workplace safety, but 40 people come to your talk, then you can describe the talk as "It was standing room only" thereby suggesting great success. The number of chairs in a room are not really relevant in the figurative use of the expression, only a successful number of participants.
5) to "come out ahead" - To "come out" is a phrasal verb usually equivalent to "result". "Ahead" here is referring to a gain, not a loss or balanced result. You can "come out ahead" financially or in product or valuable information. So, if you go to a conference that cost you $800.00 to attend and none of the information you get is useful to you, then you did not come out ahead. However, if at that same conference you made 3 new contacts that lead to sales for your company, then you could say that you "came out ahead" at that conference.
To "come out" also has some other meanings. One meaning is to move from one enclosed space into an open space. A cat hiding under the table could be convinced to "come out" by the offer of a special cat treat. Another meaning is very similar but used more figuratively. It refers to homosexual individuals that hide their sexual orientation from others (sometimes from themselves). An individual hiding their orientation can be referred to as "in the closet". This is a very common expression. When this person discovers or decides to tell the truth about their orientation to their family and friends then they are considered to be "out of the closet" or to have "come out".
Someone's wealth was built that day but it wasn't mine. The seminar started at 6pm and by 5:30pm there were a good-sized group of "pigeons" waiting at the door. I know this because we were also there early. What the seminar would describe to us was supposed to "blow you away" and we would definitely want to "pick up whatever they would be laying down".
Since we had a little time before the seminar, we went to have supper at the hotel's restaurant. Lucky for us we did. When we returned to the seminar room, it was "standing room only". The speaker began telling stories of how he built his own wealth and how we could purchase a class to find out how to do the same. They only had 9 places in the class so we had to act quick. The class, at this one time only offer, was discounted from $6,000.00 to $2,000.00. Wow, what a bargain! At the break (2 hours+ later) we were offered a granola bar for a snack. Unbelievable! These people were talking about all the million dollar deals they were making daily and then we were offered a granola bar for supper.
In the end, they sold all 9 seats in their first class for $2,000.00 and the 9 seats in the second class at $1,250.00 each, for a grand total of $29,250.00. The cost for the room we were in was maybe $500.00 and if you add in the cost of the water (available at the back of the room), $0.00, and the cost of the snacks, maybe $20.00, you get a final intake of about $28, 730.00. Even if the classes offered cost them $2,000.00, they still "come out ahead" at $26,730.00. So whose wealth was built that night?
1) a "pigeon" OR a "sucker" OR a "mark"- "There is a pigeon born every minute" OR "There is a sucker born every minute". This is an expression that isn't discussing actual flying pigeons. The suggestion is that pigeons are not very smart and they like to be in groups, i.e. do what the other pigeons are doing. So if you are someone who wants to convince someone to give you money or to purchase something above the actual worth of the product, you must look for a "pigeon". A "pigeon" is someone who wants to believe that they have knowledge that they do not and so they will pretend to understand what the salesperson is saying just to belong. This "pigeon" will purchase a car that is broken for full price. They will buy a new sweater for ten times the regular retail price because they believe the salesperson when they tell the "pigeon" that the sweater has magical powers. Essentially a pigeon, a sucker and a mark are all very gullible people who will buy whatever you tell them to. A disreputable salesperson will always want to talk to the pigeons before they try talking to the informed shopper.
2) to "blow you away" OR to be "blown away" - This expression suggests a bomb exploding or a very strong wind that would physically move your body and therefore mind. We use this expression anytime we want to suggest that the information we have to share is amazing and will shock the listener. Usually, this is a good thing. If you have gone on a buying trip for work, and your boss asks you what you paid for your samples, you can say "You will be blown away be the prices". When you read a mystery book and it reveals the reason for the killer's actions, you could say you were "blown away" by that information.
You can also say that something can "blow your mind". Again, this suggests amazement. The expression does have a drug-related connotation because some drugs (not alcohol) can change your perception and therefore what your mind perceives. You can use this expression at work if you are sure that what you are about to demonstrate will be new and surprising information for your audience. You could tell the client at your advertising firm that the new ad campaign will "blow her mind" because it is so revolutionary.
3) to "pick up what someone is laying down" - A slightly dated expression that can refer to a dog that follows a scent to a lost object. We use this to describe the idea that everything that is about to be said is important or exciting information that needs to be understood and considered valuable. It can be used at least 2 ways. 1) You can ask someone, like a subordinate at work, if they are "picking up what you are putting (OR laying) down" because they do not seem to be listening to you. The idea is that because of your greater experience at the job, you have good information to share. You can also tell someone to make sure they "pick up what you lay down" because you are offering a gift of your knowledge and the listener would be wise to take the valuable information and learn it. 2) If you are at work and the boss is questioning whether you are listening, you can say "I am picking up what you are laying down" to assure the boss that not only are you listening but that the information being given is also being valued.
4) "standing room only" - This term is literal but can be used figuratively. If a room has a limited number of chairs and every chair is full, then any other individuals in the room would have to stand. Hence, the room was "standing room only". Figuratively, the expression suggests an unexpected number of participants in any activity. For example, if you expect about 20 workers to attend your talk on workplace safety, but 40 people come to your talk, then you can describe the talk as "It was standing room only" thereby suggesting great success. The number of chairs in a room are not really relevant in the figurative use of the expression, only a successful number of participants.
5) to "come out ahead" - To "come out" is a phrasal verb usually equivalent to "result". "Ahead" here is referring to a gain, not a loss or balanced result. You can "come out ahead" financially or in product or valuable information. So, if you go to a conference that cost you $800.00 to attend and none of the information you get is useful to you, then you did not come out ahead. However, if at that same conference you made 3 new contacts that lead to sales for your company, then you could say that you "came out ahead" at that conference.
To "come out" also has some other meanings. One meaning is to move from one enclosed space into an open space. A cat hiding under the table could be convinced to "come out" by the offer of a special cat treat. Another meaning is very similar but used more figuratively. It refers to homosexual individuals that hide their sexual orientation from others (sometimes from themselves). An individual hiding their orientation can be referred to as "in the closet". This is a very common expression. When this person discovers or decides to tell the truth about their orientation to their family and friends then they are considered to be "out of the closet" or to have "come out".
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Is Platini On The Right Track?
I read an article about UEFA president Platini on BBC News this week. The article was based on one of the problems with football - goals that are not seen, and therefore not counted, by the referee.
In the last World Cup, England was denied what seemed a clear goal to those of us who watched live and then was proven a clean goal by all the camera replays. Since then, some football talk has been centred around the topic of adding technology to the game so no goal would be missed. There have been a number of "hats tossed into the ring" offering ways to solve the problem. Some believe the ball should contain a chip that would make a signal "go off" when it crossed the goal line. Some think there should be a device like the ones used in tennis or cricket to visually track the ball. Both of these technologies have been tested in the past and neither "passed muster". The rulemaking division of FIFA is inviting ideas about technology that would be useful to ensure no goals would be missed.
However, I believe UEFA president Platini is "on the right track". He believes all we need is "an extra pair of eyes" at the goal line. That is how they solved the problem in hockey. This season UEFA Champions League games are being played with an extra official at the goal line. I think this is the best way to keep the integrity of the game and ensure that the referee is being supported in his decisions. Being the referee and having all your decisions challenged by players, managers, fans and 20+ cameras is an impossible situation. Support is needed.
I hope they choose to continue with the extra official at the goal line and not add technology. Adding technology would not only change the game by undermining the referee, but it would take football away from all the countries that don't have the money to come "up to code" if this type of technology becomes standard.
1) "hats tossed into the ring" OR to "toss your hat into the ring" - When you "toss your hat into the ring", you are joining in a competition. Applying for a new job is the same as tossing your hat into the ring. The job is essentially a competition of the most qualified people. Sending your resume is joining the competition. If there is a bonus to be won at work, you can toss your hat into the ring by asking to be considered for the bonus. If working the hardest will win the bonus, then you have to work harder than usual to be considered as a contender. Just offering an opinion or a suggestion during a meeting can be the same as tossing your hat into the ring because it brings attention to you. If your opinion is the best, then you can "win" the discussion. Therefore, offering an opinion is the same as joining a competition or tossing your hat into the ring.
2) to "go off" - Surprisingly, this phrasal verb has more than one meaning. To "go off", as used in the above passage, is the same as to "set off" something. Any item, like an alarm, needs something to occur so the alarm will sound. Whatever the "thing" needed to make the alarm sound is what makes the alarm "go off". In the case of a fire alarm, smoke would make it "go off".
Another definition of to "go off" is to get very angry. Usually this includes yelling and violent behaviour. If your boss has a very bad temper, this means that they can get very angry at small things. If you know that leaving coffee cups on the reception desk makes your boss very angry, you would say that leaving coffee cups on the desk makes your boss "go off" (or... it "sets off" your boss).
3) to "pass muster" - When something "passes muster", it is good. Something that "passes muster" also "passes inspection". If you are searching for a new car because you current car doesn't have any cup holders, then a new car with 4 cup holders would "pass muster". Anything, including a person, that requires a positive review by an authority, needs to "pass muster". If you have hired a new assistant for your manager, then once your manager agrees that the new assistant shows all the skills required, then the new assistant as well as your ability to hire assistants would both "pass muster".
4) to be "on the right track" - This is used in all types of situations. To be "on the right track" means that your ideas agree with mine. Being "on the right track" is completely a matter of opinion. If the website designer for your company decides that the home page should contain photos of management AND you agree with this opinion, then you would say the designer "is on the right track". However, if you do not agree with the opinion of the designer, then you would say they are "not on the right track".
5) an "extra pair of eyes" - This is a literal expression. In the case of the extra official at the goal line, we are talking about having an extra person, with their eyes, watching the ball. We use this expression often at the office. If your marketing manager comes to you to ask for "an extra set of eyes" to check the new ad before it goes to print, then they want you to look at or edit the ad. We often discuss needing "an extra pair of eyes" to check our projects at work. Sometimes the expression is less literal. It can mean that we don't trust our ability (and the computer's) to edit our own work or just that we like having someone else edit and therefore approve of our work.
6) to be "up to code" - For something to be "up to code" means that it follows or agrees with the rules that apply. A car seat for your child must be "up to code" before it can be sold in the stores. Because rules change, they suggest not to buy used/old car seats as they may not be "up to code" or agreeing with current regulations. Anything that does not agree with current regulations is simply "not up to code".
You can use this expression in a less literal way. At the office, an older computer program may not be "up to code" (literal) for security. A bad or sexist joke told at the office can be "not up to code" (literal or figurative depending upon regulations at the workplace). However, the behaviour of a worker at the office can also be "not up to code". Perhaps they say offensive things or just act in a way that makes the other workers feel uncomfortable. This person's behaviour must be addressed by the manager and if the person changes so that the other workers become happy with their behaviour then they would be considered to have brought "up to code".
In the last World Cup, England was denied what seemed a clear goal to those of us who watched live and then was proven a clean goal by all the camera replays. Since then, some football talk has been centred around the topic of adding technology to the game so no goal would be missed. There have been a number of "hats tossed into the ring" offering ways to solve the problem. Some believe the ball should contain a chip that would make a signal "go off" when it crossed the goal line. Some think there should be a device like the ones used in tennis or cricket to visually track the ball. Both of these technologies have been tested in the past and neither "passed muster". The rulemaking division of FIFA is inviting ideas about technology that would be useful to ensure no goals would be missed.
However, I believe UEFA president Platini is "on the right track". He believes all we need is "an extra pair of eyes" at the goal line. That is how they solved the problem in hockey. This season UEFA Champions League games are being played with an extra official at the goal line. I think this is the best way to keep the integrity of the game and ensure that the referee is being supported in his decisions. Being the referee and having all your decisions challenged by players, managers, fans and 20+ cameras is an impossible situation. Support is needed.
I hope they choose to continue with the extra official at the goal line and not add technology. Adding technology would not only change the game by undermining the referee, but it would take football away from all the countries that don't have the money to come "up to code" if this type of technology becomes standard.
1) "hats tossed into the ring" OR to "toss your hat into the ring" - When you "toss your hat into the ring", you are joining in a competition. Applying for a new job is the same as tossing your hat into the ring. The job is essentially a competition of the most qualified people. Sending your resume is joining the competition. If there is a bonus to be won at work, you can toss your hat into the ring by asking to be considered for the bonus. If working the hardest will win the bonus, then you have to work harder than usual to be considered as a contender. Just offering an opinion or a suggestion during a meeting can be the same as tossing your hat into the ring because it brings attention to you. If your opinion is the best, then you can "win" the discussion. Therefore, offering an opinion is the same as joining a competition or tossing your hat into the ring.
2) to "go off" - Surprisingly, this phrasal verb has more than one meaning. To "go off", as used in the above passage, is the same as to "set off" something. Any item, like an alarm, needs something to occur so the alarm will sound. Whatever the "thing" needed to make the alarm sound is what makes the alarm "go off". In the case of a fire alarm, smoke would make it "go off".
Another definition of to "go off" is to get very angry. Usually this includes yelling and violent behaviour. If your boss has a very bad temper, this means that they can get very angry at small things. If you know that leaving coffee cups on the reception desk makes your boss very angry, you would say that leaving coffee cups on the desk makes your boss "go off" (or... it "sets off" your boss).
3) to "pass muster" - When something "passes muster", it is good. Something that "passes muster" also "passes inspection". If you are searching for a new car because you current car doesn't have any cup holders, then a new car with 4 cup holders would "pass muster". Anything, including a person, that requires a positive review by an authority, needs to "pass muster". If you have hired a new assistant for your manager, then once your manager agrees that the new assistant shows all the skills required, then the new assistant as well as your ability to hire assistants would both "pass muster".
4) to be "on the right track" - This is used in all types of situations. To be "on the right track" means that your ideas agree with mine. Being "on the right track" is completely a matter of opinion. If the website designer for your company decides that the home page should contain photos of management AND you agree with this opinion, then you would say the designer "is on the right track". However, if you do not agree with the opinion of the designer, then you would say they are "not on the right track".
5) an "extra pair of eyes" - This is a literal expression. In the case of the extra official at the goal line, we are talking about having an extra person, with their eyes, watching the ball. We use this expression often at the office. If your marketing manager comes to you to ask for "an extra set of eyes" to check the new ad before it goes to print, then they want you to look at or edit the ad. We often discuss needing "an extra pair of eyes" to check our projects at work. Sometimes the expression is less literal. It can mean that we don't trust our ability (and the computer's) to edit our own work or just that we like having someone else edit and therefore approve of our work.
6) to be "up to code" - For something to be "up to code" means that it follows or agrees with the rules that apply. A car seat for your child must be "up to code" before it can be sold in the stores. Because rules change, they suggest not to buy used/old car seats as they may not be "up to code" or agreeing with current regulations. Anything that does not agree with current regulations is simply "not up to code".
You can use this expression in a less literal way. At the office, an older computer program may not be "up to code" (literal) for security. A bad or sexist joke told at the office can be "not up to code" (literal or figurative depending upon regulations at the workplace). However, the behaviour of a worker at the office can also be "not up to code". Perhaps they say offensive things or just act in a way that makes the other workers feel uncomfortable. This person's behaviour must be addressed by the manager and if the person changes so that the other workers become happy with their behaviour then they would be considered to have brought "up to code".
Monday, October 25, 2010
How Did It Go? I'll Let You Know...
So many people asked me today, "How did it go?". They were referring to the Calgary Woman's Show that I mentioned last blog. It went well. We must have had 1000 people "come by" our booth for a "chat". Everyone told us they were impressed with our concept and product. That really put a "spring in our step" on the way home the first day. Sales were not "off the charts" but we made some great contacts and got a few ideas for different marketing schemes. "At the end of the day", we didn't make a large sum of money but considering all the positive responses from the public, this show was "well worth the effort".
1) I will "let you know" - To "let someone know" is to tell them that you will give them information at a later time. If your boss asks you to "let her know" about how the new person is fitting into your team, she wants the information at a later date. This gives you a little time to prepare your response. This phrase is so common it is used everywhere. "Do you want me to tell you when my car is ready for sale?" "Yes. Let me know."
2) "How did it go?" or "How is it going?" - "How is it going" is a very common phrase used when meeting with anyone about anything. You can ask your courier "How's it going?" and you would be greeting them. So it can be used like "Hello".
"How's it going" can also be used to ask someone about their progress on a specific project. Your boss may come into your office and say, "How's it going on the Simpson project?". This is a direct request for a progress report on that specific project. Your answer should include how close the project is to completion and what steps you are taking to get the project complete.
3) to "come by" - Like most, this phrasal verb has a number of meanings. In the context of the short piece above, to "come by" (also "to drop by") means to go to a place for a visit, conversation or specific purpose. I could say to my friend, "Don't forget to come by the house to get the recipe you wanted". Your client could tell you to "come by" the office to sign the papers for your agreement.
You can also "come by" something. This suggests that you have found something that you weren't specifically looking for. You might be walking past a shop on Saturday and "come by" a fantastic sale. You weren't looking for the sale, but you did find it. You could also be looking in your car for a tissue and happen to come by a packet of gum. How fortuitous!
4) to "chat"- This word means to have a short conversation. It can be used in any context but often suggests a casual situation. You might go for coffee with a friend just to chat. Your boss could ask you to come into the office for a chat. The suggestion is a casual conversation will occur.
5) to have a "spring in your step" - When you have a "spring in your step" you are happy. It literally suggests that your steps are full of energy and bounce (spring). Happiness and positive energy are always the focus of this phrase. Sometimes something simple like finding money on the street or getting a good price for your car will give you a "spring in your step". People can see your happiness as you walk.
6) "at the end of the day" - This phrase is used to "sum up" or to give a synopsis of whatever you have just been speaking about. It usually is said before you make your very last statement. You can use it at the end of a meeting or a speech. For example, "This afternoon we have been talking about investments. We have given you a great number of ideas and names of companies that should see excellent financial quarters. But, at the end of the day, the decision to invest is completely yours."
7) "well worth the effort" - Something that is "well worth the effort" is something that has been hard work but has resulted in a positive outcome. Everyone would say that raising children is "well worth the effort". But some might not agree that running a daycare facility is also worth the effort. You could say that going across the city to get a 5% discount on shoes is not worth the effort but when you get to your destination and they offer you an additional 25% for coming before 10:00, your long trip would be considered well worth the effort. Sometimes, dealing with a client who is unhappy isn't worth the effort because they do not add significant wealth to the company. But perhaps they are good friends with an investor who is looking for a company to do business with, then dealing with the unhappy client might be well worth the effort.
1) I will "let you know" - To "let someone know" is to tell them that you will give them information at a later time. If your boss asks you to "let her know" about how the new person is fitting into your team, she wants the information at a later date. This gives you a little time to prepare your response. This phrase is so common it is used everywhere. "Do you want me to tell you when my car is ready for sale?" "Yes. Let me know."
2) "How did it go?" or "How is it going?" - "How is it going" is a very common phrase used when meeting with anyone about anything. You can ask your courier "How's it going?" and you would be greeting them. So it can be used like "Hello".
"How's it going" can also be used to ask someone about their progress on a specific project. Your boss may come into your office and say, "How's it going on the Simpson project?". This is a direct request for a progress report on that specific project. Your answer should include how close the project is to completion and what steps you are taking to get the project complete.
3) to "come by" - Like most, this phrasal verb has a number of meanings. In the context of the short piece above, to "come by" (also "to drop by") means to go to a place for a visit, conversation or specific purpose. I could say to my friend, "Don't forget to come by the house to get the recipe you wanted". Your client could tell you to "come by" the office to sign the papers for your agreement.
You can also "come by" something. This suggests that you have found something that you weren't specifically looking for. You might be walking past a shop on Saturday and "come by" a fantastic sale. You weren't looking for the sale, but you did find it. You could also be looking in your car for a tissue and happen to come by a packet of gum. How fortuitous!
4) to "chat"- This word means to have a short conversation. It can be used in any context but often suggests a casual situation. You might go for coffee with a friend just to chat. Your boss could ask you to come into the office for a chat. The suggestion is a casual conversation will occur.
5) to have a "spring in your step" - When you have a "spring in your step" you are happy. It literally suggests that your steps are full of energy and bounce (spring). Happiness and positive energy are always the focus of this phrase. Sometimes something simple like finding money on the street or getting a good price for your car will give you a "spring in your step". People can see your happiness as you walk.
6) "at the end of the day" - This phrase is used to "sum up" or to give a synopsis of whatever you have just been speaking about. It usually is said before you make your very last statement. You can use it at the end of a meeting or a speech. For example, "This afternoon we have been talking about investments. We have given you a great number of ideas and names of companies that should see excellent financial quarters. But, at the end of the day, the decision to invest is completely yours."
7) "well worth the effort" - Something that is "well worth the effort" is something that has been hard work but has resulted in a positive outcome. Everyone would say that raising children is "well worth the effort". But some might not agree that running a daycare facility is also worth the effort. You could say that going across the city to get a 5% discount on shoes is not worth the effort but when you get to your destination and they offer you an additional 25% for coming before 10:00, your long trip would be considered well worth the effort. Sometimes, dealing with a client who is unhappy isn't worth the effort because they do not add significant wealth to the company. But perhaps they are good friends with an investor who is looking for a company to do business with, then dealing with the unhappy client might be well worth the effort.
Friday, October 22, 2010
On the Edge of Our Seats
Tomorrow is The Calgary Woman's Show. In itself, the show is not overly exciting for me. However, this year my sister's company You Get Well Soon is "manning" a booth and I will be there. We are truly "on the edge of our seats" about the outcome. As we haven't been to any other shows, we have "no idea" what to expect. Will she have people "falling over themselves" about the product or only "looky loos"? We are "clueless" as to what will happen. "Fingers crossed" all goes well.
1) "manning" or "to man" something - This is a strange example of how English takes nouns, like "man", and changes them into verbs. "To man" something means to physically be present. A person must be attending whatever situation is in need. So, if you are walking past a flower stand that no one seems to be working at, you could say that the stand wasn't being manned.
I know this term sounds sexist but we do use it for both men and women. If your boss asks you to volunteer to represent the company at a trade show next month, you will be "manning" the trade show booth for your company.
2) to be "on the edge of one's seat" - This phrase is very common. It means to be extremely excited about something. You "can't wait" for the event to happen. The image this phrase suggests might be a person sitting in an audience, waiting for their favourite performer to walk onto the stage. The excitement this person feels could physically move them to the edge of their seat. They would perch, like a bird on a branch, on their seat with anticipation. This phrase can be used anywhere and sometimes is used sarcastically. If, for example, you don't like cats but your friend has invited you to a cat show, you could say you are "on the edge of your seat" about which animal will be chosen the winning cat. If, on the other hand, you really enjoy having the newest technology, you could say you are "on the edge of your seat" about the upcoming release of the new iPad.
3) to have "no idea" = to be "clueless" - These expressions mean you do not have any notions, ideas, or knowledge about a subject. If you have just returned from vacation and your boss asks you what your opinion is of the new computer system your company put in last week, you could say that you "have no idea" about the new computer system because you haven't seen it yet.
In general, it's not good to be "clueless" at work. "Clueless" has the slight suggestion that your brain isn't working to capacity. You might say that the new accountant in your office is "clueless" because they cannot print out a receipt. This suggests a lack of knowledge that should be had.
4) to be "falling over oneself" - This phrase can be used a number of ways. sometimes it suggests a group of people are moving towards the same object and they are literally "falling over each other" to get to the object. Figuratively, the same group of people could be "falling over each other" if everyone in the group was trying to make a purchase of the same object.
5) a "looky loo" or "lookie loo" - This is strictly slang. a "looky loo" is a person who goes into a shop to browse but not to purchase. Because this person is only interested in looking, not buying, we call them a "looky loo". At your big sales presentation at work, you could say to your client that this new advertising campaign will turn all their "looky loos" into buyers. This will definitely make your client happy.
6) to have your "fingers crossed" - This expression comes from the physical motion of crossing one's middle finger over one's index (or pointer) finger. This is done to bring good luck to the person doing the finger crossing or to bring good luck to whomever the person crossing their fingers wants. Sometimes this same motion is used to ward off (keep away) bad luck. If your colleague at the office is going in to see the boss for their annual review, you could either make the motion of crossing your fingers or just say "fingers crossed" indicating you wish the person good luck.
Fingers crossed you all have a good week.
This blog has not been regular since the World Cup. Sorry. It will soon be again. Some football will be mentioned but I'll add a story or two about other world events - even if it's just my world.
1) "manning" or "to man" something - This is a strange example of how English takes nouns, like "man", and changes them into verbs. "To man" something means to physically be present. A person must be attending whatever situation is in need. So, if you are walking past a flower stand that no one seems to be working at, you could say that the stand wasn't being manned.
I know this term sounds sexist but we do use it for both men and women. If your boss asks you to volunteer to represent the company at a trade show next month, you will be "manning" the trade show booth for your company.
2) to be "on the edge of one's seat" - This phrase is very common. It means to be extremely excited about something. You "can't wait" for the event to happen. The image this phrase suggests might be a person sitting in an audience, waiting for their favourite performer to walk onto the stage. The excitement this person feels could physically move them to the edge of their seat. They would perch, like a bird on a branch, on their seat with anticipation. This phrase can be used anywhere and sometimes is used sarcastically. If, for example, you don't like cats but your friend has invited you to a cat show, you could say you are "on the edge of your seat" about which animal will be chosen the winning cat. If, on the other hand, you really enjoy having the newest technology, you could say you are "on the edge of your seat" about the upcoming release of the new iPad.
3) to have "no idea" = to be "clueless" - These expressions mean you do not have any notions, ideas, or knowledge about a subject. If you have just returned from vacation and your boss asks you what your opinion is of the new computer system your company put in last week, you could say that you "have no idea" about the new computer system because you haven't seen it yet.
In general, it's not good to be "clueless" at work. "Clueless" has the slight suggestion that your brain isn't working to capacity. You might say that the new accountant in your office is "clueless" because they cannot print out a receipt. This suggests a lack of knowledge that should be had.
4) to be "falling over oneself" - This phrase can be used a number of ways. sometimes it suggests a group of people are moving towards the same object and they are literally "falling over each other" to get to the object. Figuratively, the same group of people could be "falling over each other" if everyone in the group was trying to make a purchase of the same object.
5) a "looky loo" or "lookie loo" - This is strictly slang. a "looky loo" is a person who goes into a shop to browse but not to purchase. Because this person is only interested in looking, not buying, we call them a "looky loo". At your big sales presentation at work, you could say to your client that this new advertising campaign will turn all their "looky loos" into buyers. This will definitely make your client happy.
6) to have your "fingers crossed" - This expression comes from the physical motion of crossing one's middle finger over one's index (or pointer) finger. This is done to bring good luck to the person doing the finger crossing or to bring good luck to whomever the person crossing their fingers wants. Sometimes this same motion is used to ward off (keep away) bad luck. If your colleague at the office is going in to see the boss for their annual review, you could either make the motion of crossing your fingers or just say "fingers crossed" indicating you wish the person good luck.
Fingers crossed you all have a good week.
This blog has not been regular since the World Cup. Sorry. It will soon be again. Some football will be mentioned but I'll add a story or two about other world events - even if it's just my world.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Death in the Family
Hello.
I mentioned in my last blog that there was a death in the family. There were some issues that needed to be dealt with but now are mostly resolved. I got a few stories from my trip that I will be sharing in the next few blogs.
When we heard the news that my maternal grandfather had "passed on", my mother, father and myself made plans to travel to Winnipeg (1300+ kilometers away). We considered driving there, briefly. The trip is approximately 14 hours and with 2 diabetics (both my parents have type 2 diabetes) we decided that a long "road trip" was "out of the question". So we "winged it".
We stayed with my aunt and her family. So there were four of us in their house for three days. We actually had a very nice visit, excluding the funeral aspect. We haven't seen each other since my sister's wedding four years ago. It was nice to "reconnect". My aunt has two daughters, 16 and 19, and a large golden retriever. The house was busy but fun.
As for the funeral itself, it was a lovely ceremony. My grandfather had been "doing poorly" for a long time. It was a relief for all involved (my grandfather included I believe) that he died. His health , both physical and mental, was very bad at the end and no one believed that his quality of life was good.
We had a nice reunion and looked through old photos and papers. Reliving good times and bad and telling stories to each other was fun and educational. I hope everyone can have such a lovely ceremony to celebrate their life. My aunt prepared everything and I give her all the credit I can for burying her father is such a respectful and loving was. Everyone should have such a nice "send off".
1) to "pass on" - This is a phrasal verb that has two meanings. One meaning is to "refuse" or "say no to"something. "Did you pass on the whipped cream for your coffee beverage?"
The second meaning is relevant to my family situation. To "pass on" is to "die". There are many expressions we use in English to mean "die". Some are quite respectful: "pass on", "move on", leave this Earthly plane",and to be "lost" ("I'm sorry for your loss." or "When did you lose him?"). Some expressions are very casual and may be considered callous depending on whom you are talking to or about. These can include: "croak", "kick the bucket", "buy the farm", and "buy it". I would recommend never using the latter list no matter to whom you are talking. You never know how someone will react to your comments about their loved one's Passing" even when their own comments seem casual or flippant.
2) a "road trip" - Very simply, this is an extended car ride. It can actually be any length of time from a few hours to days or longer. "Did they have a good vacation?" "They had a great vacation. Their road trip took them all across the western half of the country."
3) "out of the question" - Another way to say this is "there is no possibility" or "absolutely not". In answer to your wife asking for you to increase your vacation time, you could respond that you asked your boss already and he told you that, "It is out of the question." This expression is very common and can be used anywhere, including at the workplace. But be careful that you really mean it when you say it. This is an absolute answer.
4) to "wing it" - Another phrasal verb with at least two definitions. The way it was used in the short story above, we "winged it" to Winnipeg, the meaning is we "took a plane" or we "flew". This is not an overly common expression anymore but you can use it without embarrassing yourself. "How are you getting to your business meeting in Chicago?" "I plan on winging it."
The other definition of to "wing it" is to do something without preparing for it in advance. "Are you studying for your exam tomorrow?" "No. I'm going to wing it. The exam only constitutes 20% so I am choosing to concentrate on my essay instead." Although this is an expression that can be used anywhere, you probably do not want to use it at work. At least not in front of your superior at the office because this expression suggests a lack of preparation and therefore a lack of interest. If your boss asks you if you are prepared for the sales meeting and you say that you are planning on "winging it", it is likely that your boss will lose confidence in you and you will not be in charge at the next meeting.
"Winging it" can also be used to describe a situation where you do not have an obvious showing of your preparedness. Maybe you have given the same presentation about the product you sell to numerous different groups. In the beginning, you may have gone to the presentations with a written script but after the twentieth time, you may decide to "wing it" by doing the presentation without note cards. Although you may look unprepared, this does not mean you are not capable of doing he job without the physical support of a written script.
5) to "reconnect" - To "reconnect" is to "connect again". If your internet goes down, you may need to reconnect to it by having your computer search for the wi-fi source. "Reconnecting" with family or old friends is a common way to explain how we get close to someone that we haven't seen or spent time with for a long time. "I went to my high school reunion last year. I had a good time because it gave me the opportunity to reconnect with my best friend when we were 16."
6) a proper "send off" - A "send off" or "send-off" is a way to celebrate someone leaving some place. "We gave Iker a great send off when he moved to Malta for his new job. We had a big party and everyone told him how much they would miss him." We can use it in many situations including a funeral ceremony. The ceremony and the time we spent remembering my grandfather was, in my opinion, a very nice send off.
I mentioned in my last blog that there was a death in the family. There were some issues that needed to be dealt with but now are mostly resolved. I got a few stories from my trip that I will be sharing in the next few blogs.
When we heard the news that my maternal grandfather had "passed on", my mother, father and myself made plans to travel to Winnipeg (1300+ kilometers away). We considered driving there, briefly. The trip is approximately 14 hours and with 2 diabetics (both my parents have type 2 diabetes) we decided that a long "road trip" was "out of the question". So we "winged it".
We stayed with my aunt and her family. So there were four of us in their house for three days. We actually had a very nice visit, excluding the funeral aspect. We haven't seen each other since my sister's wedding four years ago. It was nice to "reconnect". My aunt has two daughters, 16 and 19, and a large golden retriever. The house was busy but fun.
As for the funeral itself, it was a lovely ceremony. My grandfather had been "doing poorly" for a long time. It was a relief for all involved (my grandfather included I believe) that he died. His health , both physical and mental, was very bad at the end and no one believed that his quality of life was good.
We had a nice reunion and looked through old photos and papers. Reliving good times and bad and telling stories to each other was fun and educational. I hope everyone can have such a lovely ceremony to celebrate their life. My aunt prepared everything and I give her all the credit I can for burying her father is such a respectful and loving was. Everyone should have such a nice "send off".
1) to "pass on" - This is a phrasal verb that has two meanings. One meaning is to "refuse" or "say no to"something. "Did you pass on the whipped cream for your coffee beverage?"
The second meaning is relevant to my family situation. To "pass on" is to "die". There are many expressions we use in English to mean "die". Some are quite respectful: "pass on", "move on", leave this Earthly plane",and to be "lost" ("I'm sorry for your loss." or "When did you lose him?"). Some expressions are very casual and may be considered callous depending on whom you are talking to or about. These can include: "croak", "kick the bucket", "buy the farm", and "buy it". I would recommend never using the latter list no matter to whom you are talking. You never know how someone will react to your comments about their loved one's Passing" even when their own comments seem casual or flippant.
2) a "road trip" - Very simply, this is an extended car ride. It can actually be any length of time from a few hours to days or longer. "Did they have a good vacation?" "They had a great vacation. Their road trip took them all across the western half of the country."
3) "out of the question" - Another way to say this is "there is no possibility" or "absolutely not". In answer to your wife asking for you to increase your vacation time, you could respond that you asked your boss already and he told you that, "It is out of the question." This expression is very common and can be used anywhere, including at the workplace. But be careful that you really mean it when you say it. This is an absolute answer.
4) to "wing it" - Another phrasal verb with at least two definitions. The way it was used in the short story above, we "winged it" to Winnipeg, the meaning is we "took a plane" or we "flew". This is not an overly common expression anymore but you can use it without embarrassing yourself. "How are you getting to your business meeting in Chicago?" "I plan on winging it."
The other definition of to "wing it" is to do something without preparing for it in advance. "Are you studying for your exam tomorrow?" "No. I'm going to wing it. The exam only constitutes 20% so I am choosing to concentrate on my essay instead." Although this is an expression that can be used anywhere, you probably do not want to use it at work. At least not in front of your superior at the office because this expression suggests a lack of preparation and therefore a lack of interest. If your boss asks you if you are prepared for the sales meeting and you say that you are planning on "winging it", it is likely that your boss will lose confidence in you and you will not be in charge at the next meeting.
"Winging it" can also be used to describe a situation where you do not have an obvious showing of your preparedness. Maybe you have given the same presentation about the product you sell to numerous different groups. In the beginning, you may have gone to the presentations with a written script but after the twentieth time, you may decide to "wing it" by doing the presentation without note cards. Although you may look unprepared, this does not mean you are not capable of doing he job without the physical support of a written script.
5) to "reconnect" - To "reconnect" is to "connect again". If your internet goes down, you may need to reconnect to it by having your computer search for the wi-fi source. "Reconnecting" with family or old friends is a common way to explain how we get close to someone that we haven't seen or spent time with for a long time. "I went to my high school reunion last year. I had a good time because it gave me the opportunity to reconnect with my best friend when we were 16."
6) a proper "send off" - A "send off" or "send-off" is a way to celebrate someone leaving some place. "We gave Iker a great send off when he moved to Malta for his new job. We had a big party and everyone told him how much they would miss him." We can use it in many situations including a funeral ceremony. The ceremony and the time we spent remembering my grandfather was, in my opinion, a very nice send off.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)