Singlish with Josh

Learn how to use the phrase "cut corners”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“He must have cut some corners with this project!”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “cut corners” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Cutting corners” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it.
”Cutting corners” (as an idiom) does NOT mean using scissors to cut paper.
”Cutting corners” (as an idiom) does NOT have anything to do with corners.

“Cutting corners” DOES mean doing something quicker or cheaper than it should be done.

The phrase was first used in the 1800s to describe carriages turning quickly to save time, and “cutting off the corner”. This act was intended to save time but often resulted in negative consequences. The carriage wheel could hit the curb and cause the carriage to tip over and cause a big problem. The intent was to make the route shorter and arrive quicker, but it often proved that taking the longer, safer route was actually better, and often quicker in the end.

Today, “cutting corners” is used for any situation where someone uses the cheapest, quickest, or easiest way to accomplish something. This implies that the quality of the work will be lower than it would have if done properly. This idiom is used in both social situations as well as in the business world.

Here are a few examples:

If you want to succeed in this life, you can’t cut corners. You have to put in the work.
Our boss doesn’t deserve his position. The only reason he was promoted to that role is because he cut corners.
With travel costs increasing, the concern is that airlines are cutting corners in order to make a profit.
The company has had to start cutting corners by importing products that they used to produce locally.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

When it became known that the accountant was cutting corners, he was fired immediately.
This toy fell apart before I even touched it. They must have really sliced corners when they made these things.
Can you cut the corners of the sandwich off for me?
You should never cut corners when it comes to your health.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat do you call an expensive belt that is too small?
A huge waist (waste).

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com.
Be sure to follow this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.
Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "lion’s share”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Why should you get the lion’s share of the pizza?”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “lion’s share” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Lion’s share” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it.
”Lion’s share” does NOT mean that lions like to share things.
”Lion’s share” (as an idiom) does NOT have anything to do with animals.

“Lion’s share” DOES mean the largest portion of something.

The phrase originates from Aesop’s fables. In one of these stories, a lion and 3 other animals go hunting together. Once they succeeded, the lion decided that all four portions would belong to him. Aesop concludes that “one may share the labors of the great, but you will not share the spoils.” So originally, the “lion’s share” indicated the entire amount of something, but over time the phrase began to refer to the largest and best portion of something.

Today, the idiom is used in sorts of contexts to refer to the largest amount or portion of something.

Here are a few examples:

At the swim meet, Patrick won the lion’s share of the gold medals.
The lead actor received the lion’s share of the credit for the show’s success.
In many cultures, the oldest son receives the lion’s share of the estate.
Dad spent the lion’s share of our vacation working on his computer.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Why should we split the bill evenly when you ate as much as a lion?
My little sister is small but she still always eats the lion’s share of pizza on movie night.
This was a team project, but Jerry clearly did the lion’s share of the work.
Lionel Messi scored the lion’s amount of Argentina’s goals in the world cup.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 2 and 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat time should you make an appointment at the dentist?
2:30 ("Tooth hurty")

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Learn how to use the phrase "jump through hoops”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Please don’t make me jump through a lot of hoops!”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “jump through hoops” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Jump through hoops” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. ”Jump through hoops” does NOT mean to literally jump through something. ”Jump through hoops” does NOT have anything to do with basketball.

“Jumping through hoops” DOES mean doing a lot of annoying or difficult tasks in order to accomplish something.

Have you ever been to a circus, or seen one in a movie? Many circus acts involve animals jumping through hoops, sometimes hoops that are on fire. Think about this act. There is no purpose in the animal jumping through the hoop, except to entertain others. Often the animals are even threatened with a whip in order to make sure they jump through the hoops.

This is where the idiom comes from. If you have to do multiple annoying or difficult tasks in order to accomplish something, you may feel like you are being treated like a zoo animal. The annoying tasks seem to have no purpose other than entertaining the person or institution that is making you do them.

So, the phrase “jump through hoops” is used often for describing how difficult it was to accomplish something. At times, the idiom is expanded to “jump through a lot of hoops”.

Here are a few examples:

We had to jump through a lot of hoops to get my father admitted to the hospital.
With all of the security checks, you have to jump through a lot of hoops in the airport to get onto a flight.
I jumped through hoops all morning to get this appointment for you, so you better make it on time.
Hopefully I will get my visa someday. It feels like all I am doing is jumping through hoops for no reason.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

If you want to be an actor, be prepared to hop through a lot of hoops in order to land a job.
I wish we could get more done. It seems like we are just constantly jumping through hoops.
We had to jump through fire to get my father admitted to the hospital.
I am tired of jumping in circles to get a passport. I give up.

What do you think?
The only correct sentence is number 2.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat animal can jump higher than a house?
All of them. Houses can’t jump.

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Learn how to use the phrase "to ride shotgun” or “to call shotgun”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Let’s get in the car. I call shotgun!”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “to ride (or call) shotgun” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To ride or call shotgun” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it.
”To call shotgun” does NOT mean to speak to a gun.
”To ride or call shotgun” does NOT have anything to do with a gun.

“To ride shotgun” DOES mean to sit in the front passenger seat of a vehicle, next to the driver.
“To call shotgun” means to claim the right to sit in the front passenger seat.

The phrase originates in the early 1900s in the American “wild west”. People often traveled by stagecoaches, pulled by horses. To protect themselves and their cargo, often someone sat right next to the driver with access to a shotgun in case their stagecoach was attacked. This role became known as “riding shotgun”. The phrase first shows up in literature in 1905. Alfred Henry Lewis, in his “The Sunset Trail”, describes Wyatt Earp as “riding shotgun” when a stagecoach was carrying valuable treasures.

Today the phrase “riding shotgun” refers simply to the act of sitting in the front passenger seat of a vehicle. Similarly, “to call shotgun” refers to claiming the right to sit in the front passenger seat. In many situations, this phrase is used in a game to determine who gets to sit in the front seat. Once the vehicle is in view, whoever first calls out “shotgun” gets the right to sit in the front seat.

Here are a few examples:

Let’s head out. I call shotgun!
Yesterday Paul rode shotgun so I had to sit in the back all by myself.
Mom, don’t let Owen sit up front. I called shotgun!
I often feel sick when I sit in the back, so is it OK if I ride shotgun?

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Can I ride shotgun? I love driving!
Yesterday Paul shot a gun before getting into the car.
Mom, don’t let Owen sit in the front. I called rifle!
I am tired of sitting in the back. Can I ride shotgun?

What do you think?
The only correct sentence is number 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat has four wheels and flies?
A garbage truck

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Learn how to use the phrase "wild goose chase”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Are you taking me a wild goose chase?”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “wild goose chase” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Wild goose chase” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it.
”Wild goose chase” does NOT refer to running after birds.
”Wild goose chase” does NOT have anything to do with a goose.

“Wild goose chase” DOES refer to a hopeless search for something that is impossible to find.

Originally, this phrase appears to refer to a certain type of horse race where the horses end up in a V-formation, similar to how birds fly in a v-formation. A notable example of this meaning of the phrase shows up in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Since then, the idiom began to refer to a hopeless quest, such as chasing after a goose, which is an extremely difficult challenge. Imagine running after a goose that changes directions and speeds often. It would look quite wild, and you would likely not succeed.

So, today the idiom refers to any quest or search for something that is impossible to find.

Here are a few examples:

The robber fled the scene quickly, and now the police are on a wild goose chase to track him down.
Apparently my brother had the car keys. I was on a wild goose chase around the whole house trying to find them.
Trying to find an affordable apartment these days is a wild goose chase.
Let’s make sure he knows where the pharmacy is so he doesn’t spend his whole day on a wild goose chase.

Now it is time to take a quiz.

Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Did you see the wild goose chasing the dog around the yard?
We all set out on a wild goose chase to find the dog who got out of the fence and ran away.
My mom is looking everywhere for her earrings. Personally I think it is a crazy goose chase.
There are coffee shops everywhere, but finding coffee that is actually good is a wild goose chase.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 2 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhy do geese fly south in the winter?
It is too far to walk.

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Learn how to use the phrase "pull a fast one".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Are you trying to pull a fast one on me?”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “pull a fast one” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Pull a fast one” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it.
”Pull a fast one” does NOT mean to pull on something.
”Pull a fast one” does NOT mean to run fast.

“Pull a fast one” DOES mean to trick or deceive someone.

The origin of this idiom is unclear. Some think it comes from a magician performing card tricks, where they manipulate the cards quickly in order to trick those watching. Or possibly it refers to someone shuffling cards in a manner to deal himself good cards and his opponent bad cards.

Regardless, the idiom “pull a fast one” means to trick or deceive someone. Typically the person being tricked is clear by saying “pull a fast one on someone”.

Here are a few examples:

Are you trying to pull a fast one on me?
At the store, I needed to pay $9. After giving the cashier a $20 bill, he tried to pull a fast one by only giving me $1 back and claiming I only gave him a $10 bill.
Jenny pulled a fast one when she said she had a headache so she could leave school early.
Everyone believed the rumor until Jack confessed that he had pulled a fast one on us all.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I have a good plan for how to pull a fast one on my friends for April Fools’ Day.
I think the people who claim they saw UFOs are trying to pull a fast one on us.
I know what the price should be. You can’t push a fast one on me.
I lent my friend $15. He pulled a fast one at me and never paid me back.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 2.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhy should you take two pairs of pants to play golf?
You may get a hole in one.

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Learn how to use the phrase "to flesh out”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“We are going to flesh out an idiom on the podcast today.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “to flesh out” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To flesh out” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. ”To flesh out” does NOT mean to literally put skin on something or remove skin from something. ”To flesh out” does NOT have anything to do with a body part.

“To flesh out” DOES mean to develop by adding more information.

The phrase comes from the idea of a skeleton, all bones and no muscles and flesh. The skeleton needs to be “fleshed out” in order to be complete. In the same way, if an idea is shared without enough details, the idea needs to be “fleshed out” to be completed. To “flesh out” an idea means to develop it by adding missing information or details.

It can be used in two ways. In the first way, the thing needing more information comes after the phrase, like this: “Let’s flesh out that idea.” The other way is to split the phrase in the middle: “Let’s flesh that idea out.”

Here are a few examples:

Great idea! Let’s get together to flesh that out.
I think the story is good, but the author could have fleshed out the characters more.
This plan looks good. All that is left is to flesh out the details.
The outline is done. Once Peter fleshes it out a bit, the speech should be finished.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I think the story is good, but the author could have fleshed in the characters more.
I think the story is good, but the author could have skinned out the characters more.
I think the story is good, but the author could have fleshed out the characters more.
I think the story is good, but the author could have fleshed the characters more.

What do you think?
The only correct sentence is number 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayDid you know the first French fries weren’t actually cooked in France?
They were cooked in Greece (grease).

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Learn how to use the phrase "a dime a dozen”.Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Podcasts like this are a dime a dozen”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “a dime a dozen” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“A dime a dozen” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. ”A dime a dozen” does NOT refer to a coin. ”A dime a dozen” does NOT mean that ten equals twelve.

“A dime a dozen” DOES mean simply common or a little value.

In 1796 the United States began making a coin worth 1/10th of a dollar. This 10-cent coin was introduced as a dime. In the 1800s, some merchants began advertising the cost of their products using the phrase, a dime a dozen, which means that you can purchase 12 for 10 cents. For example, 12 eggs for 10 cents or 12 apples for 10 cents. Merchants would use the phrase a dime a dozen to promote the good value for the money. Over time, the phrase began to be used to refer to something very common and therefore of little value.

Here are a few examples:

Reality shows on TV are a dime a dozen these days.
Diet programs are a dime a dozen, and it seems none of them have lasting results.
Medical face masks used to be hard to find, but now they are a dime a dozen.
Casual friends are a dime a dozen, but real friends are hard to find.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I will give you a dime for a dozen pennies.
I have never seen a unicorn before. They must be a dime a dozen.
How many coins do you have? A dime? A dozen? A hundred?
Coffee shops in big cities are a dime a dozen.

What do you think?
The only correct sentence is number 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhy can’t a bicycle stand up?
It’s two tired.

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Learn how to use the phrase "my two cents”.
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“If you want my two cents on the matter, check out my podcast.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “my two cents” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“My two cents” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. ”My two cents” does NOT refer to your coins. ”My two cents” does NOT have anything to do with money.

“My two cents” DOES mean simply your opinion on something.

By using “my two cents” you are communicating that your opinion may not be wanted or that it may not be valued by others. So it is often used in humility, as if you are saying: “you may not think it is helpful, but my opinion on this subject is ____.”

There are several theories as to where this idiom came from. One is from the Bible where a widow only has two coins and offers them both. Her offering is said to be worth more than the big amounts of money offered by those who were rich.

Another possibility is that the phrase came about in response to the phrase “a penny for your thoughts.” After being offered a penny (one cent) for an opinion, if the person talked too much and gave too long of an opinion, it could be said they gave two pennies worth of an opinion. So “my two cents” began to be used to refer to an opinion that isn’t exactly being asked for.

Regardless of its origin, the idiom “my two cents” is used to humbly offer your opinion about a certain topic.

Here are a few examples:

If you want my two cents, I think the logo looks good as it is.
Peter kept telling me to keep my mouth shut, but I just had to offer my two cents.
I think you should not cut your hair, but that is just my two cents.
Would you like to hear my two cents on the matter?

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

My two cents is that this food is cooked perfectly.
Do you have enough money to pay for lunch, or do you need my two cents?
I dropped everything on the ground, and after searching for a long time I found my two cents.
Be quiet! No one is asking for your two cents!

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat has 2 heads, 2 tails, and doesn’t help anyone?
Your two cents.

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Learn how to use the phrase "out of the blue".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:I started this podcast out of the blue.

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “out of the blue” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Out of the blue” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. ”Out of the blue” does NOT mean a certain shade of the color blue. ”Out of the blue” does NOT mean to depart from a certain place.

“Out of the blue” DOES mean completely unexpected or surprising.

If there is no clear reason or expectation for something to happen, you can say that it was “out of the blue.”

The idiom was first used in a book by Thomas Carlyle in 1837. He referred to something happening unexpectedly by saying it was “as a bolt out of the blue.” He was likely referring to a thunder bolt during a time when the sky is blue. This is not someone you would expect. Thunder and lightning happen when the sky is black during a storm, not a clear day with blue skies. Since that time, the phrase is most often used simply as “out of the blue” to refer to something unexpected.

Here are a few examples:

Airplanes often experience turbulence out of the blue, without any visible warning from the sky ahead.
Jerry is typically very calm, so we were all surprised when he got angry at us out of the blue yesterday.
I hadn’t talked to Lucy since college, but I received an email from her out of the blue last week.
One day, out of the blue, Jenny decided to quit her job.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Get out of the blue water, there are sharks in there.
In this painting, remove some green from out of the blue and it will look more realistic.
I was shocked when Sally threw a punch at Jill the other day.
John invited me to go to Europe out of the black yesterday.

What do you think? The only correct sentence is number 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat is blue and doesn’t weigh very much?
Light blue

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Learn how to use the phrase "draw a blank".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Today’s podcast is about… well… I just drew a blank.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “draw a blank” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Draw a blank” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. To “draw a blank” does NOT mean to create a drawing. To “draw a blank” does NOT mean to get something empty.

To “draw a blank” DOES mean to be unable to remember something. In some cases, it could also mean to fail to find something or succeed at something.

This idiom comes from an old lottery system. There would be two big pots. In one pot, everyone’s name was written on a small piece of paper. In the other pot, there were an equal number of pieces of paper with prizes written on them. Someone would take a piece of paper from each pot to determine what prize each person won. Most of the prize papers, although, were blank with nothing written on them. When your prize paper had nothing written on it, you “drew a blank.”

For many years the phrase was used for anytime you failed to find something or succeed at something.

For example, “I looked for my keys all over the house, but I drew a blank.”

Here is another example: “The police investigation drew a blank, so we may never know what happened.”

In American English, this idiom most often means to be unable to remember something.

Here are a few examples:

Even though I studied a lot, I drew a blank on a lot of the exam questions.
When Lucy asked me for my phone number, I was so nervous that I drew a blank and just stared at her.
Why is it that we can remember faces so well but we draw a blank when it comes to names?

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I thought I knew his name, but when I saw him I drew a blank.
On my paper, I drew a blank face on everyone.
Real Madrid drew an empty against Barcelona in the match last night.
I hope I don’t draw a blank on the exam tomorrow.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayHow do you know that someone likes their anti-gravity book?
When they can’t put it down.

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Learn how to use the phrase "knock yourself out".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Can I have the last slice of pizza?” ”Sure, knock yourself out.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “knock yourself out” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Knock yourself out” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. To “knock yourself out” does NOT mean punch or hit yourself. To “knock yourself out” does NOT mean to faint or go unconscious.

To “knock yourself out” DOES mean to allow or invite someone to have or do as much as they like.

It seems the origin of this idiom is that if someone has as much as they want of something, or if they work too hard at something, they may end up harming themselves or possibly even passing out. For example, if someone is trying to dig a very deep well, they could easily work so hard that they faint or pass out. If that were to happen, it is almost as if he knocked himself out by working so hard. So saying “knock yourself out” became a way to invite someone to do as much as they want, or to have as much as they want of something.

So, if a well was being dug, and someone offered to help, you can reply by saying, “knock yourself out”. This would mean that you are inviting them to help with the digging, and that they can dig and dig as much as they want.

Saying “knock yourself out” also shows that you are no longer very interested in being involved. You are gladly allowing the other person to have or do whatever they want.

Here are a few more examples:

“Can I help put the puzzle together with you?” “Sure, knock yourself out.”
“Can I have something to drink?” “The refrigerator is full of options. Knock yourself out.”
“I am going for a run. Do you want to join?” ”No thanks. Knock yourself out.”
“Do you mind if I borrow your computer?” ”Knock yourself out.”

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

During the last fight we had, I knocked you out.
“Can I borrow some money?” ”Sure, punch yourself out.”
“Can I finish off that pizza?” ”Sure, knock yourself out.”
“Would you like to travel to Europe with me?” ”Knock yourself out.”

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 3 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day
Why do I only know 25 letters?
I don’t know y.

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Learn how to use the phrase "put someone on the spot".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Please don’t put me on the spot!”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “to put someone on the spot” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To put someone on the spot” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. “To put someone on the spot” does NOT mean to literally have someone stand or sit in a certain place. “To put someone on the spot” does NOT have anything to do with spots.

“To put someone on the spot” DOES mean to force someone to make a difficult decision quickly.

Some say this idiom comes from the world of pirates. Apparently pirates would send the Ace of Spades from a deck of cards to people that they intended to kill. The Ace of Spades typically has a large black spot in the middle of the card. So they would “put someone on the spot” by sending the card to them. Since then, the Ace of Spades has often been associated with death.

Today the idiom is used in a less serious manner. “To put someone on the spot” means to embarrass someone by forcing them to answer a difficult question or make a difficult decision quickly.

Here are a few examples:

I wasn’t prepared at all when my boss put me on the spot during the meeting today when he asked me about the budget.
Please don’t put me on the spot. Can I respond to you tomorrow about this?
Sorry to put you on the spot, but I need an answer now.
Jimmy put his boss on the spot yesterday at the staff meeting when he asked about the vacation policy.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Sally always puts me on the dot like that.
Susan wasn’t ready to answer, but she was put on the spot and had to come up with something.
The director put me on the spot I needed to be on to be seen by the camera.
John put his friend on the spot when he invited him to his party in front of everyone.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 2 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat did the zero say to the eight?
Nice belt!

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Learn how to use the phrase "a drop in the bucket".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“This podcast feels like just a drop in the bucket, but I hope it helps some people.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “a drop in the bucket” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“A drop in the bucket” is an idiom, which means that this phrase has a meaning unrelated to the words found in it. “A drop in the bucket” does NOT refer to water. “A drop in the bucket” does NOT have anything to do with a bucket.

“A drop in the bucket” DOES mean something that is so small that it won’t make a difference.

This idiom comes from the idea that a bucket could hold thousands and thousands of drops of water. So adding or taking away one single drop of water won’t make a difference. The drop of water is very small compared the water needed to fill a bucket.

The phrase originates from the Bible. In the book of Isaiah, all the powerful nations on the earth, compared to God and His power, are said to be a drop in the bucket.

Today, the idiom is used for anything that is small or insignificant compared to what is needed. So, for example, if you need to raise $1000 for a project, and someone gives you 25 cents, you could say that the 25 cents is a drop in the bucket.

In some places, the idiom can be heard as “a drop in the ocean”.

Here are a few examples:

All the money we raised was just a drop in the bucket.
We got a $100 bonus, but that is a drop in the bucket compared to what management team got.
My dad and I raked leaves all morning, but that was just a drop in the bucket because leaves will keep falling.
We raised $200 at the bake sale, but that is a drop in the bucket compared to what we need to buy new football uniforms.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Your vote may feel like a drop in the bucket, but it makes a difference.
We can only fit a few more drops in the bucket before it overflows.
We gave $50 to the charity, but that is only a drop in the bowl.
We have the strongest team and will definitely win the tournament. All the other teams are like a drop in the bucket compared to ours.

What do you think? The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day
How do you know when a bucket isn’t feeling well?
When it is a little pail.

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Learn how to use the phrase "go out on a limb".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Do you ever go out on a limb?”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “go out on a limb” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To go out on a limb” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. “To go out on a limb” does NOT mean to literally climb a tree.

“To go out on a limb” DOES mean to be in a situation that may be extreme or risky, and one that may likely be criticized. Often the cause of this risky situation is the person’s own choice.

This idiom comes the act of climbing trees. The safe thing to do when climbing is to keep your weight on the trunk or other strong branches. A limb is simply a small branch. To climb out onto a smaller limb for any reason is risky because the limb could easily break, causing you to fall and be injured. The idiom “out on a limb” was first used in a newspaper in 1895 referring to politicians whose ideas caused them to be “out on a limb” and in danger of losing support.

Today, as an idiom, the phrase is used anytime someone chooses to hold an opinion that is unpopular or easily criticized. It could also refer to someone or a group of people who find themselves in any risky situation with no support.

The phrase can be used with any tense of the verb “to go” such as “go out on a limb”, “going out on a limb”, or “went out of a limb.”

Here are a few examples:

Linda decided to go out on a limb and oppose the opinion of her political party.
I am done going out on a limb to support you when you make poor decisions.
Brad went out on a limb with this hypothesis - the facts don’t support it.
The new company overextended itself and was soon out on a limb.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

As a politician, you often must go out on a limb and risk your reputation.
The monkey went out on a limb and jumped to another tree.
I went out on a branch for you, and this is how you repay me?
To say that Steve Jobs was successful isn’t exactly going out on a limb.

What do you think? The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhy did the trees take a nap?
For rest.

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Learn how to use the phrase "go through the motions".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“It’s like he doesn’t care. He is just going through the motions.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “go through the motions” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To go through the motions” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. “To go through the motions” does NOT mean to walk past anything. “To go through the motions” does NOT mean to make signs with your arms or hands.

“To go through the motions” DOES mean to do something in a mechanical way without any enthusiasm or effort.

This idiom comes the world of manufacturing, where workers in factories perform the same task over and over all day long. Eventually the workers no longer need to even think, and it is like they perform the necessary motions automatically without enthusiasm or much effort. For many of these workers, it was said that they were simply going through the motions.

Today, as an idiom, the phrase is used for anyone doing something in a mechanical way, especially if they are not enthusiastic about the task. Someone going through the motions often doesn’t care much about the result of what they are doing. They simply want to get it over with and move on.

The phrase can be used with any tense of the verb “to go” such as “go through the motions”, “going through the motions”, or “went through the motions.”

Here are a few examples:

You really don’t care, do you? You are just going through the motions.
The officer told me he is investigating the robbery, but I think he is just going through the motions.
After his wife died, he went through the motions of living without feeling anything.
They told Henry that he would have to leave his job at the end of the month, so he is just going through the motions until then.

Now it is time to take a quiz.
Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Our team is losing so bad that we are just going through the motions until it ends.
I really want our marriage to work. We can’t just go along with the motions.
I know you aren’t excited about this. Just go through the motions and we will get it done.
I am learning sign language. I am going through the motions again so I don’t forget.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 2 and 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat do you do with a sick boat?
Take it to the dock.

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Learn how to use the phrase "get under someone’s skin".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“My boss really knows how to get under my skin.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “get under my skin” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To get under someone’s skin” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. “To get under someone’s skin” does NOT mean to poke a hole in someone. “To get under someone’s skin” does NOT have anything to do with being under someone or something.

“To get under someone’s skin” DOES mean to irritate or bother someone by your behavior or comments.

This idiom comes from the feeling of having something, like a small insect or a splinter, that gets under your skin. It may not be very painful, but it is very annoying and difficult to get rid of. Sometimes people can be the same way. By the way they act or speak, you become annoyed by them but don’t know how to get rid of them.

Today, as an idiom, the phrase is used for anytime someone is being irritating. The person is “getting under your skin” by their behavior. They are bothering you and your desire is to leave their presence to be relieved from the irritation.

Here are a few examples:

She really knows how to get under my skin with her nagging.
What really gets under my skin is when people push straight to the front of the line.
He is trying to distract you. Don’t let him get under your skin.
Paul really got under my skin when he started criticizing my family.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

This spider is crawling on me and trying to get under my skin.
Don’t pay attention to Larry. He is jealous and is just trying to get under your skin.
Steven is always talking about how much money he has. He really gets under my skin.
I love kids, but sometimes they whine a lot and that gets over my skin.

What do you think?
The correct sentences are numbers 2 and 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayDid you hear about the kidnapping at the school?
It’s OK. The kid woke up.

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Learn how to use the phrase "steal someone’s thunder".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“I always worked hard to make my videos, but when my kids are in them, they stole my thunder.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “to steal someone’s thunder” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To steal someone’s thunder” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. “To steal someone’s thunder” does NOT mean you literally steal on object from someone else. “To steal someone’s thunder” does NOT have anything to do with thunder.

“To steal someone’s thunder” DOES mean to gain the attention or praise that someone else thought they would get, usually by saying or doing what they intended to say or do.

This idiom comes from a specific moment in history. John Dennis wrote plays, and in 1704 he created a new method of imitating the sound of thunder for use in one of his plays. His play was not successful, so very few people experienced it. John Dennis later attended a performance of the famous play “Macbeth” and noticed that his method of imitating the sound of thunder was used. He angrily exclaimed, “They will not let my play run, but they steal my thunder.”

Today, as an idiom, the phrase is used for anytime someone gets the credit someone else deserved or desired. As we said earlier, “to steal someone’s thunder” means to gain the attention or praise that someone else thought they would get, usually by saying or doing what they intended to say or do.

Here are a few examples:

Before I tell my parents that we were pregnant, our older child stole my thunder and blurted out the exciting news.
Since John prepared the presentation, we should let him present it so we don’t steal his thunder.
This was supposed to be a great World Cup for Germany, but Japan stole their thunder by advancing and knocking Germany out of the tournament.
Everyone looked forward to hearing the magnificent music at the concert, but the dancing stole some its thunder.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Can I please share the news? Please don’t steal my thunder!
It was supposed to be stormy today, but someone must have stolen the thunder.
By writing only his name on our project, John really stole our lightning.
Someone stole my thunder by leaking my designs onto the internet.

What do you think?
The only correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat did one hat say to the other hat?
You stay here, and I will go on ahead.

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Learn how to use the phrase "missed the boat".
Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“I should have invested earlier. I missed the boat.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “missed the boat” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Missed the boat” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.
“Missed the boat” does NOT mean that you threw a rock towards a boat and missed.
“Missed the boat” (as an idiom) may not even have anything to do with boats.

“Missed the boat” DOES mean that someone missed an opportunity that they may not have again.

The phrase originates from the days when traveling by boat was more common. If a passenger were late to arrive and the boat left without them, there is no chance the huge boat would turn back around to let them get on board. The passenger would no longer be able to travel because that boat has left and the passenger “missed the boat.”

Today, the idiom “missed the boat” is used for any missed opportunity, especially if it was an opportunity that will not come around again. The idiom is very related to another idiom, “That ship has sailed” which implies the same thing: an opportunity has been missed.

“Missed the boat” can be used in a variety of ways.

Here are a few examples:

You should sign up for the trip now. Don’t miss the boat!
I should have asked Sally to marry me. I really missed the boat with her.
Prices have gone up so much lately. I missed the boat by not buying a home years ago.
I wish I had set an alarm. I slept through the entrance exam. Now I have missed the boat completely!

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Charlie missed the boat with football tryouts. It’s too late to start training now.
I hit at least 50 golf balls into the ocean. Most of them missed the boat, but a few hit it.
Don’t miss the boat with Jennifer. Ask her out now while she is single!
I used to love water skiing with my family. I miss our boat a lot.

What do you think?
The only correct sentences are numbers 1 and 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhat did the man say when his wife thought moose were falling from the sky?
It’s just reindeer.

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Learn how to use the phrase "out of the woods".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“I am feeling better, but I am not out of the woods yet.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “out of the woods” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Out of the woods” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. “Out of the woods” does NOT mean you literally are walking out of the woods into a field. “Out of the woods” (as an idiom) does NOT have anything to do with where you are.

“Out of the woods” DOES mean to no longer be in danger or in a difficult situation.

The phrase comes from the idea that the woods can be a scary place. Just think about movies where a character goes deep into the woods, especially if it is dark outside. They are often in trouble and desperately wanting to find their way out of the woods and into a safer place. The idea of getting out of the woods is symbolic for escaping danger.

Today the idiom is used commonly for anytime you are experiencing a difficult or dangerous situation. Most often, the idiom is used negatively for when someone is not yet fully out of danger or the difficult situation.

Here are a few examples:

Paul is recovering well from his surgery, but he is not out of the woods yet.
This has been a tough quarter for our company. We have made more sales the past few weeks, but we aren’t out of the woods yet.
This has been a difficult season, but it looks like we are finally out of the woods.
We have a one goal lead, but the other team is getting a lot of good shots. We are almost there, but we aren’t out of the woods yet. There are 5 more minutes in the game.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

My leg is still hurts but I should be out of the trees in a couple weeks.
This winter has been so cold. Hopefully we will be out of the woods after this snow storm.
Our company is not doing well financially. It feels like we will never get on top of the woods again.
Are you lost? You should get out of the woods.

What do you think? The only correct sentence is number 2.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhy are you using wood glue?
I tried “wouldn’t glue” but it didn’t work

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "the elephant in the room".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Are we going to talk about the elephant in the room?”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “the elephant in the room” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“The elephant in the room” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. “The elephant in the room” does NOT mean there is an actual elephant in the room. “The elephant in the room” does NOT have anything to do with elephants.

“The elephant in the room” DOES refer to an awkward situation when there is a topic that everyone is aware of yet no one wants to start a conversation about.

The phrase comes from the idea that if there was an actual elephant standing in a small room, everyone would obviously be able to see it. If everyone acted normal and pretended to not see the elephant, it would be very odd.

Today the idiom is used commonly for when everyone is thinking about a certain topic, yet clearly no one wants to start a conversation about that topic. For instance, imagine your company just lost an enormous amount of money. At the next meeting, everyone continues making plans as if the company was running perfectly. The “elephant in the room” is that the company just lost a lot of money. Everyone is aware of it, yet no one is talking about it.

Here are a few more examples:

The dinner Sally made tasted terrible, but no one said anything about it. It clearly became the elephant in the room the whole night.
Who is going to bring up the elephant in the room?
Everyone knew that Jerry and Suzanne split up, but everyone acted normal and ignored the elephant in the room.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Now that we are all together, we can’t ignore the elephant in the room.
Paul has clearly been drinking again, but no one wants to bring up the elephant in the kitchen.
Are you really not aware of the elephant in the room?
We all know the company is going bankrupt. Let’s address the giraffe in the room.

What do you think? The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day

What steps should you take if there is a fire?
Big and fast ones

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "stick to your guns".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“I hear what you are saying, but I am going to stick to my guns.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “stick to your guns” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Stick to your guns” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. To “stick to your guns” does NOT mean to glue a gun to your hand. To “stick to your guns” (as an idiom) does NOT have anything to do with guns.

To “stick to your guns” DOES mean to not change your opinion or method of doing something.

The phrase originates from military boats in a war. When the boat was under attack, the sailors were told to continue firing and not leave the place where they could fire the guns. The command was to “stick to your guns”. Even though they were being attacked and were tempted to change their plan, their job was to “stick to their guns” and keep shooting.

Today the idiom is used when your opinion or method of doing something is challenged. You can either change your mind, or you can “stick to your guns” and continue thinking or doing what you planned.

The idiom can be used in many ways, based on the tense needed and the person involved.

Here are a few examples:

My dad wants me to major in Engineering, but I am sticking to my guns and training to be an actor.
I know the Lakers are terrible, but I stuck to my guns and bet on them winning the championship.
I admire the way he sticks to his guns. He is not easy to persuade.
Decide how much you can spend on that car. Stick to your guns and don’t settle for a higher price.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I will stick to my guns on this matter. I am sure that I am right.
After dipping my fingers in glue, my hands stuck to my gun when I picked it up.
Don’t give in to their taunts. Stick to your cannons!
It’s time to give up, John. You have got to know when to stop sticking to your guns.

What do you think? The correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day

Where can you find an ocean without any water?
On a map

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "play it by ear".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“I don’t know what we will do. We will just have to play it by ear.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “play it by ear” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Play it by ear” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally. To “play it by ear” does NOT mean to make music with your ear. To “play it by ear” does NOT have anything to do with playing anything. To “play it by ear” (as an idiom) doesn’t have anything to do with ears.

To “play it by ear” DOES mean to act without making a plan, or to improvise.

The phrase originates from the world of music. Some musicians can play music simply by listening, without using any written musical notes. We could say that they were “playing it by ear” as opposed to playing it by reading notes with their eyes. It began to be used for other situations when someone is performing or acting without any preparation written on paper.

Today the idiom is used commonly for anytime you are deciding what to do as the situation develops. For example, if you don’t have time to plan your vacation, you leave town without hotel reservations. You will “play it by ear” by finding a hotel once you arrive in the city you plan to stay.

Here are a few more examples:

What should we do tonight? Let’s just leave the house and play it by ear.
Let’s wait and see what the weather will be like and play it by ear.
You need to make a plan for this presentation. Don’t play it by ear.
I haven’t decided what to say when I see her. I will be playing it by ear.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I don’t even need my hands to play the guitar. I can play it by my ear.
I don’t know what I will make for dinner. I will see what’s in the refrigerator and play it by ear.
I can’t hear the trumpet very well. Can you play it by my ear?
John played it by ear and planned out every detail.

What do you think? The only correct sentence is number 2.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day
What has 5 toes and isn’t your foot? My foot

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "a lot on my plate".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Sorry, I can’t come tonight. I have a lot on my plate right now.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “a lot on my plate” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“A lot on my plate” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.
To have “a lot on my plate” does NOT mean that I am about to eat a lot of food.
To have “a lot on my plate” does NOT mean that I am hungry.
To have “a lot on my plate” doesn’t have anything to do with food.

To have ”a lot on my plate” DOES mean that I have a lot of things to do, or that I am busy.

The phrase was first used in the 1920s and uses the image of a plate full of food, with no room to add anything else. So if someone’s agenda is full of things to do with no room to add anything, they can say “I have a lot on my plate.”

Today, the idiom is also commonly heard as “too much on my plate”, “so much on my plate” or “enough on my plate.” “A lot on my plate” is used in many ways, depending on who is speaking.

Here are a few examples:

I would love to grab coffee sometime soon. But this week I have a lot on my plate, so can we plan on next week?
I wish I could help you with that project, but I have enough on my plate right now.
How do you handle having so much on your plate with school and your job?
Steve, if you don’t have too much on your plate right now, could you help me move into my new house next week?

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

This spaghetti is so good. I am putting a lot on my plate right now.
Whew, I am so busy. I think I have too much in my bowl.
Jerry is working two jobs right now. He has a lot on his plate and probably can’t go on the fishing trip.
Susan just had her first baby and is still working. Let’s leave her alone… she has enough on her plate I think.

What do you think? The correct sentences are numbers 3 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day
What kind of nut seems to always have a cold? Cashew!

Thanks for listening!

And thanks to my good friend Elena for the idea for this episode. If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "pick your brain".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“You have started a podcast?!? I need to pick your brain!”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “to pick someone’s brain” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“To pick someone’s brain” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.
“To pick someone’s brain” does NOT mean to poke someone in the head.
“To pick someone’s brain” does NOT mean to perform brain surgery.
“To pick someone’s brain” DOES mean to gather information by asking someone questions.

The phrase comes from the idea that someone else has information stored in their brain that you would like to gather. Imagine that you want to learn something that someone else knows or has experience with. The information they have is sitting on top of their brain, able to be picked up. So by asking questions, you gather information by picking it off of their brain.

Today, the idiom “To pick someone’s brain” is used in both casual situations and in the workplace. “To pick someone’s brain” is used in many ways, using names or pronouns in place of “someone”.

Here are a few examples:

I am so nervous about parenting. I would love to pick your brain about how to take care of a newborn.
I wonder how Steve Jobs became so successful. I wish I could pick his brain for hours.
Do you think I could pick your father’s brain about the stock market?
My math homework is so hard. I wish I could pick Einstein’s brain right now.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Sally makes such good food. I would like to pick her brain about cooking.
Robert fell down. Can you help me pick his brain up?
Jerry is in surgery. The doctor is picking at his brain to get the tumor out.
Susan is so smart. I hope I can pick her mind sometime.

What do you think? The only correct sentence is number 1.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayHow do you turn a brain into water? Take away the “b”

Thanks for listening!

And thanks to my amazing friend, Sarah, for the idea for this episode. If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "that ship has sailed".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:“Sorry, friend. She got engaged. That ship has sailed!”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “that ship has sailed” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“That ship has sailed” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.
“That ship has sailed” does NOT necessarily mean that you are late to board a ship.
“That ship has sailed” (as an idiom) may not even have anything to do with boats.
“That ship has sailed” DOES mean that someone missed an opportunity that is no longer possible

The phrase originates from the days when traveling by boat or ship was more common. If a passenger were late to arrive and the ship had already left, there is no chance the big ship would turn back around to let him or her get on board. The passenger would not be able to travel, because “that ship has sailed.”

Today, the idiom “That ship has sailed” is used for any missed opportunity, especially if it was an opportunity that will not come around again. The idiom is very related to other idioms, such as “Missed the Bus” and “Missed the boat” which imply the same thing: an opportunity has been missed.

“That ship has sailed” is always used in the past perfect tense, so don’t leave off the “has”. “That ship sailed” does not carry the same emphasis and meaning.

Here are a few examples:

We would love to have more children. But at our age, that ship has sailed.
I should have asked Sally to marry me years ago. But now that ship has sailed.
Thanks for your interest but that ship has sailed. We are no longer accepting applications.
I am quitting my job to train to play football professionally before that ship has sailed.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

Chuck wanted to marry Linda but he didn’t act in time. She is engaged to someone else now, so that ship sailed.
It’s too late to sign up for the trip. That ship has sailed.
I wish I had invested in real estate years ago. But that boat has sailed.
Hurry up. That ship will sail in an hour.

What do you think? The only correct sentence is number 2.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the DayWhy did the sailers never play cards? The captain was always standing on the deck.

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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Learn how to use the phrase "on the back burner".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“I have not finished that project. I had to put it on the back burner.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “on the back burner” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“On the back burner” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.
“On the back burner” does NOT mean that your back is on fire.
“On the back burner” (as an idiom) is not related to cooking food.
“On the back burner” DOES mean that something is not very important, or not a priority at this time.

The phrase originates from the context of cooking food on a stove. Typically, a stove has several “burners” and often the burner furthest back is smaller and not as hot. It is designed to keep something warm while you focus your attention on the food cooking on the front burners. The pot on the back burner is not a priority and does not need your attention.

Today, the idiom “on the back burner” is used for projects or tasks that you have been working on but need to set aside for a time while you focus on something else. Putting something “on the back burner” means that even though you are not giving up on a project, you are temporarily not working on it.

“On the back burner” can be used with the verbs “put” or “move”.

Here are a few examples:

I am sorry that this project isn’t finished yet. I have had so much work that I had to put the project on the back burner.
I am too busy right now. I know that I need to put some things on the back burner, but I can’t decide what to let go of.
Your room is quite messy. Have you moved cleaning up to the back burner lately?

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences use the idiom correctly?

I have so much work to do this week. I need to put something on the back burner.
I stood a little bit too close to the fire last night. It was a back burner situation.
That project is not important right now. Let’s put it on the side burner.
Sorry that I haven’t posted anything lately. I had to put my blog on the back burner the past few weeks.

What do you think? The only correct sentences are numbers 1 and 4.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day
What happened when the frog parked illegally? It got towed (toad).

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

Thanks for tuning in!

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In this episode, learn how to use the phrase "hold your horses".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Whoa, hold your horses! We have plenty of time!””

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you to speak more like a native English speaker.

In this episode, we will consider the phrase “hold your horses” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Hold your horses” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.

“Hold your horses” does NOT mean that there are horses in front of you that you should pick up into your arms.

“Hold your horses” (as an idiom) does NOT have anything to do with horses.

“Hold your horses” DOES mean to slow down, or be patient, or wait.

The phrase comes from when someone is riding a horse or sitting in a carriage being pulled by horses. The rider is holding ropes (called reins) that can be used in order to direct the horse or slow the horse down. So to slow down, the rider will “hold his horses” by pulling on the reins.

Today, the idiom “hold your horses” is often used when someone is rushing or in a hurry. Telling them “hold your horses” is an encouragement to wait and think about something before taking action.

“Hold your horses” is most often used as a command, but can be found in other forms as well.

Here are a few examples:

Hold your horses! There is plenty of candy for each of you.
You are going to have to hold your horses. I have a little more work to finish before we can leave.
I know the plane leaves soon, but everyone should hold their horses. Let’s make sure we know where our gate is before we start running.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences are correct?

Why are you rushing? Hold your ponies! We will leave soon, don’t worry.
Whoa, hold your horses! It’s better to be late than to get into a car crash.
I am sorry but I am going to have to ask you to hold your horses. We are working as fast as we can.
I am glad you are strong because you need to hold your horses and they are heavy!

What do you think? The only correct sentences are numbers 2 and 3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day

I am not a fan of elevator music. It bothers me on so many levels.

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

Thanks for tuning in!

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In this episode, learn how to use the phrase "under the weather".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:

“Jack can’t be here today. He is under the weather.”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you speak more like a native English speaker.

In this episode, we will consider the phrase “under the weather” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Under the weather” is an idiom, which means that we don’t understand it literally.

Being “under the weather” does NOT mean that rain is currently falling on you.

Being “under the weather” does NOT mean that you are standing under a sign that says “Weather.”

Being “under the weather” DOES mean that you are ill or that you don’t feel well.

The phrase comes from sailors. When someone became seasick, they were told to go below deck where they would be protected from the weather as well as isolated from the other sailors. They were told to go down “under the weather.”

Today, the idiom “under the weather” is often used when someone is feeling a little bit ill, not when someone is terribly sick.

The idiom can be used with the verb “to feel” or “to be” as you will see in the following examples.

Here are a couple examples:

I don’t think I will go hiking today. I am feeling a bit under the weather.
Jack is nervous about the boat ride because he is already a little under the weather.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences are correct?

Jeremy couldn’t get out of bed this morning because he is under the clouds.
James didn’t come to work today because he is under the weather.
Jenny is under the weather and has been violently sick for 3 days.
Sorry you couldn’t come to the party last night. When do you think you will be over the weather?

What do you think? The only correct sentence is #2.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day

Which side of a chicken has more feathers? The outside.

Thanks for listening!

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

Thanks for tuning in!

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In this episode, learn how to use the phrase "hit the road".

Check out the "Singlish with Josh" YouTube channel and website.

Episode Script:
“It’s getting late. I need to hit the road”

Welcome to “ESL with Josh” - a podcast that will help you speak more like a native English speaker. In this episode, we will consider the phrase “hit the road” - what does it mean and how do we use it?

“Hit the road” is an idiom which means that we don’t understand it literally.
“Hit the road” does NOT mean getting a hammer and hitting a road with it.
“Hit the road” does NOT mean punching the road with your fist.

“Hit the road” DOES means to leave or depart, specifically if you are traveling by car.

What actually “hits the road” is the tires of a car.

The idiom “hit the road” is often used to indicate urgency, the need to leave or depart by a specific time.

The idiom can change based on the time of the action, so you may hear it as "hit the road" or “hitting the road”.

Here are a few examples:

As soon as we hit the road, we got into an accident.
What time will you be hitting the road tomorrow for your trip?
If I don’t hit the road now, I will be late for my appointment.
You should get out of here now. It’s time to hit the road.

Now it is time to take a quiz. Which of the following sentences are correct?

I was so angry that I hit the road with a hammer.
It’s getting pretty late. We should hit the road.
What time will you be hitting the road?

What do you think? The correct sentences are #2 and #3.

Now it’s time for the Joke of the Day

What do you call a fish with no eyes? Fsh

Thanks for listening! If you have any suggestions for future episodes, you can email me at ESLwithJosh@gmail.com

Be sure to subscribe to this podcast so you don’t miss any episodes.

Also please check out my YouTube channel for more English resources. You can find it at youtube.com/SinglishwithJosh

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