One of my lessons from this past week was about taboo words. I think it is interesting that we make certain vocalizations illegal. Why are certain words so profane? There are many reasons. Words have emotions attached to them from experience and culture. Sometimes the words are associate with taboo subjects. Edmund Leech identified three … Read More
Keep it one hundred is a phrase used to show authenticity. It may have come from keep it one hundred percent real. Keeping it real is an older phrase which means, ‘be true to yourself’ (be authentic). The phrase, keeping it real, was popularized in the Dave Chapelle’s sketch show. It is really funny if … Read More
Today’s phrase is a new one for me, to make a meal out of something. It was brought to my attention from a friend of mine. I am always up for learning something new, so I appreciate it. To make a meal out of something is when you take a simple task or explanation and … Read More
This week we are doing a project called human library. You may have seen me post about it. If not, you can check it out here . The real human library started in 2000 in Denmark. The goal is to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing a safe place to engage with people you … Read More
Sometimes I will help out a coworker with a PowerPoint or share some lessons. When I get a coffee, I pass by a lot of coworker computers. As I pass, occasionally I will notice them working on one of my lessons. However, my initial response is to compliment them on how beautiful their PowerPoint is. … Read More
Lit has many meanings. The literal definition is to illuminate or catch on fire. Lit can also be the abbreviation of literature. However, today I want to focus on the newest form of lit: something that is exciting or excellent. Example: This party is lit! This slang meaning of lit dates back to 2004, with … Read More
While adding notations to interview with Sammi, I came across something in English I was unaware of. Sammi said, “as they are WANT to do.” It sounded correct to me, but we were both wrong. The American / Canadian pronunciation of wont sounds quite close to ‘want’. The correct phrase is, as they are wont … Read More
To spill the beans means to divulge (reveal) a secret. Most lot of the time people spill the beans unintentionally. Example: He spilled the beans and told me that she was getting married. She wanted to tell me herself. However, you can also use this phrase as an imperative to try to get someone to … Read More
I feel you is a colloquial phrase used to show empathy. It basically means that you understand their feelings. Since it is colloquial, you wouldn’t want to use this phrase with superiors at work or in formal writing. However, it is an excellent phrase to show sympathy. Example: “I am upset. My boss is making … Read More
I had to pull some strings to get Tim Horton’s cups in Korea. My friend had to send me a package (a trophy 😊) and I asked him to put in a few extra things. Since I am planning on doing a Tim Horton’s lesson (Canadian café and donut shop), I wanted to have real … Read More
