The Vivaling English Podcast

Animal Idioms (Suitable for CEFR level A2 and above)

December 11, 2023 VivaLing Season 3 Episode 23
The Vivaling English Podcast
Animal Idioms (Suitable for CEFR level A2 and above)
Show Notes Transcript

Join Kari and Tom as they introduce our listeners to 6 idiomatic expressions related to animals - a horse, a dog and a bee!!

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Here are definitions, examples, and comprehension check questions for each of the idiomatic expressions you've mentioned:

1. **"Never look a gift horse in the mouth"**

   - **Definition:** Do not be critical of a gift or favor given to you; be grateful for what you receive without questioning its value.
   
   - **Example:** Sarah gave me her old laptop, and even though it's not the latest model, I won't look a gift horse in the mouth.

   - **Comprehension Check Question:** What does the expression "Never look a gift horse in the mouth" advise against?

2. **"Hold your horses"**

   - **Definition:** Be patient; wait or calm down before taking action.
   
   - **Example:** Before making a decision, I need to hold my horses and think it through carefully.

   - **Comprehension Check Question:** In what situations might someone be advised to "hold their horses"?

3. **"Dog eat dog"**

   - **Definition:** A highly competitive and ruthless situation where people are willing to harm others to succeed.
   
   - **Example:** The business world can be dog eat dog, with companies competing fiercely for market dominance.

   - **Comprehension Check Question:** How would you describe an environment that is "dog eat dog"?

4. **"You're in the dog house"**

   - **Definition:** In trouble or disfavor; facing a situation of displeasure or punishment.
   
   - **Example:** After forgetting our anniversary, I'm definitely in the dog house with my wife.

   - **Comprehension Check Question:** What does it mean when someone says, "You're in the dog house"?

5. **"A busy bee"**

   - **Definition:** Someone who is very industrious, active, or hardworking.
   
   - **Example:** Emma is always buzzing around, doing a million things at once—she's a real busy bee.

   - **Comprehension Check Question:** How would you describe a person who is referred to as a "busy bee"?

6. **"The bee's knees"**

   - **Definition:** Something outstanding or excellent.
   
   - **Example:** That new restaurant downtown is the bee's knees; the food is amazing!

   - **Comprehension Check Question:** What does it mean when someone says that something is "the bee's knees"?

Feel free to answer the comprehension check questions to ensure a solid understanding of each idiomatic expression!