Speak English Like an American -- Lesson 2
Bob tells his wife Susan that he lost his job. Susan suggests that he start his own business.
Susan: What’s the matter, dear?
Bob: Susan, I got canned today at work.
Susan: But Bob, you were Peter’s right-hand man.
Bob: Yes, he stabbed me in the back.
Susan: Keep your chin up. Maybe he’ll change his mind and take you back.
Bob: When pigs fly! Once he makes up his mind, he never changes it back. Besides, I told him off.
Susan: Look on the bright side. You won’t have to set eyes on Peter ever again.
Bob: Thank goodness for that!
Susan: Hang in there. I am sure you won’t be out of work for long.
Bob: In the meantime, we will have to live from hand to mouth.
Susan: Don’t get too stressed out, Bob. We’ll make ends meet.
Bob: I can always get a job at McDonald’s as a last resort.
Susan: I don’t think they are hiring right now.
Bob: If worse comes to worst. We can sell our home and move into a tent.
Susan: Let’s think big. Maybe you can start your own business.
Bob: Easier said than done.
Idioms,
(to) change one’s mind – to change one’s opinion or decision
Easier said than done – more difficult than you think
(to) get canned (slang) – to lose one’s job; to get fired
(to) hang in there - to persevere; to not give up
If worse comes to worst – in the worst case; if absolutely necessary
(to) keep one’s chin up – to stay positive
Last resort – if there are no other alternatives left; the last solution for getting out of a difficulty
(to) live from hand to mouth – to barely have enough money to survive
(to) look on the bright side – to be optimistic; to think about the positive part or aspect of a situation
(to) make ends meet – to manage one’s money so as to have enough to live on; to be okay financially
Out of work – unemployed; not working
Right-hand man – the most helpful assistant or employee
(to) set eyes on – to look at; to see for the first time
(to) stab someone in the back – to betray someone
(to be) stressed out – under severe strain; very anxious
(to) tell off – to scold; to tell someone on strong words what one really thinks
Thank goodness – I’m grateful; I’m relieved
(to) think big – to set high goals
What’s the matter? – what’s the problem ?
When pigs fly! (slang) - never
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