常用英语口语idioms《More Speak English Like ...

Lesson 4 IDIOMS 英文释义

(to) get the scoop

→ to get information, often before anybody else does

Example: "Do you know why Rich got fired?" - "No, but I'll try to get the scoop."

(to) come out with

→ to release (as in a product or service)

Example: Levi's has come out with a new line of "eco jeans" made from organic cotton.

(to) futz around

→ to waste time, often through unnecessary activity

Example: The sales clerk at the store was not very good. He futzed around for half an hour before giving me my purchase.

Note: You may also hear the vulgar variation "to fart around."

(to) pick someone's brain

→ to get information from someone; to get advice from someone knowledgeable

Example: If you're thinking about buying a new stereo system, you should pick Sam's brain. He writes for Stereophile magazine.

(to) turn on the charm

→ to start being nice or charming (often not sincerely)

Example: Tina really turned on the charm when she was visiting her new boyfriend's parents.

Do I have to spell it out for you?

→ Do I need to explain this to you further?

Example: Do I have to spell it out for you? If you don't start doing better in school, you're not going to get into college.

at stake

→ at risk, in question

Example: When Jill started a new business, she had $250,000 of her own money at stake.

Example: There is a lot at stake in the upcoming climate talks.

I wouldn't go that far!

→ The situation is not that bad (or good); You're exaggerating

Example: "If Todd takes over as CEO of this company, we're going to go out of business." - "I wouldn't go that far!"

Example: "The cakes at the new pastry shop in town are the best in the world!" - "They are good, but I wouldn't go that far!"

Time is of the essence

→ We must act quickly; Time is very important at this point

Example: Time is of the essence in addressing global warming.

(to) clear one's calendar

→ to free oneself to do something

Example: The head of our Japanese office is coming to the office next Tuesday. Please clear your calendar for his visit.

(to) come around

→ to change one's mind; to agree in the end

Example: Your parents won't let you have your own computer? Maybe when they realize you need it to do you homework, they'll come around.

(to) fill someone in

→ to give someone the latest information

Example: I missed the meeting this morning, so can someone fill me in on what was discussed?