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1-
lost cause
2-
the last straw
3-
gray area
4-
to level the playing field
5-
slippery slope
6-
wake-up call
7-
a fine line
8-
itchy feet
9-
long shot
10-
raw deal
11-
sore point
12-
wishful thinking
13-
foregone conclusion
14-
last resort
15-
on second thought
16-
saving grace
17-
mixed blessing
18-
cold feet
19-
hooked
20-
outcry
21-
spiritualism
22-
hoax
23-
bedridden
24-
to clutch
25-
handcuff
26-
to dismiss
27-
to withstand
28-
acute
29-
to collapse
30-
inauspicious
31-
thoughtful
32-
eccentric
33-
uncanny
34-
deduction
35-
skeptical
Lost cause
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/lˈɔst kˈɔːz/
caso perdido

caso perdido

a thing or person that is impossible to improve or succeed

example
Ejemplo
Click on words
After numerous failed attempts, the project seemed like a lost cause.
The once-thriving business had become a lost cause due to poor management.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
the (last|final) straw
The last straw
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/ðə lˈæst fˈaɪnəl stɹˈɔː/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

the final and decisive event or action that pushes someone beyond their tolerance or patience, leading to a significant reaction or decision

What is the origin of the idiom "the last straw" and when to use it?

The idiom "the last straw" is used to describe a situation or event that becomes the final and decisive factor leading to a particular outcome, often a negative or breaking point. It originates from the proverbial expression "the straw that broke the camel's back," which refers to the idea that a camel can carry a heavy load, but adding one more straw will cause it to collapse.

gray area
Gray area
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/ɡɹˈeɪ ˈɛɹiə/
(zona gris)

(zona gris)

área gris

Idiom
Informal

a situation that is hard to define or categorize and therefore unclear

What is the origin of the idiom "gray area" and when to use it?

The idiom "gray area" is derived from the color gray, which is often associated with ambiguity and uncertainty. It has been used in the English language for many years to describe situations or issues that are not clearly defined, making it challenging to establish precise boundaries or categorize them definitively.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
To level the playing field
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/lˈɛvəl ðə plˈeɪɪŋ fˈiːld/
N/A

N/A

to create equal opportunities for all individuals or groups, regardless of their background or circumstances

Slippery slope
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/slˈɪpɚɹi slˈoʊp/
(escalera resbaladiza)

(escalera resbaladiza)

pendiente resbaladiza

a situation where a small initial action or decision leads to a chain of events that ultimately results in a more significant and often negative outcome

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Wake-up call
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/wˈeɪkˌʌp kˈɔːl/
servicio de despertador

servicio de despertador

a phone call that is made at a particular time to wake someone up, at their request, for example in a hotel

What is a "wake-up call"?

A wake-up call is a service provided by hotels or businesses to alert guests at a specified time, usually to ensure they wake up for a particular event or appointment. The service involves a staff member or automated system calling the guest’s room at the designated time, often in the morning. Wake-up calls are typically requested when checking into a hotel and can be set for a specific time. Some phone systems or mobile apps also offer similar features to help individuals wake up by setting alarms or reminders.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
A fine line
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/ɐ fˈaɪn θˈɪn lˈaɪn/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

a delicate distinction between two things, particularly two apparently similar situations or concepts

What is the origin of the idiom "a fine line" and when to use it?

The idiom "a fine line" originated from the literal concept of a line, which is a narrow and distinct mark or boundary. In a figurative sense, the phrase refers to a subtle or delicate distinction between two similar or closely related things. It is used to highlight the idea that there is a small margin or difference that separates two concepts, actions, or outcomes, often implying that the boundary can easily be crossed or misunderstood.

Itchy feet
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/ˈɪtʃi fˈiːt/
(afán de irse)

(afán de irse)

ansia de viajar

Idiom
Informal

a strong urge to travel or leave somewhere

What is the origin of the idiom "itchy feet" and when to use it?

The idiom "itchy feet" is thought to have originated from the sensation of restlessness or a strong desire to travel or explore new places. The phrase implies a feeling of discomfort or an impulse to move and go on an adventure. It's often used to describe a person who cannot stay in one place for long and is eager to embark on a journey, whether for leisure or exploration.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
long shot
Long shot
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/lˈɑːŋ ʃˈɑːt/
posibilidad remota

posibilidad remota

Idiom
Informal

an attempt made without having any high hopes of achieving success

What is the origin of the idiom "long shot" and when to use it?

The idiom "long shot" originated from the world of sports, particularly horse racing. In horse racing, a "long shot" refers to a horse with low odds of winning, often considered an unlikely or speculative bet. Over time, this term extended to various contexts and is now used figuratively to describe something that has a low probability of success or is unlikely to happen.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
raw deal
Raw deal
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/ɹˈɔː dˈiːl/
(un acuerdo desfavorable)

(un acuerdo desfavorable)

un trato injusto

Disapproving
Idiom
Informal

a treatment that is not fair or equal

What is the origin of the idiom "raw deal" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the idiom "raw deal" is not definitively known, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the early 20th century. It is associated with American English and has been commonly used in informal speech and writing. The phrase gained popularity and became more widely known through its usage in various contexts, including literature, film, and everyday conversations. The phrase is commonly used in informal conversations, everyday discussions, or even in more formal contexts to express a sense of dissatisfaction or a perception of being on the receiving end of an unjust treatment.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Sore point
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/sˈoːɹ pˈɔɪnt/
(punto sensible)

(punto sensible)

tema delicado

a sensitive or vulnerable topic or issue that causes discomfort, distress, or irritation when discussed or mentioned

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Wishful thinking
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/wˈɪʃfəl θˈɪŋkɪŋ/
(deseo irrealizable)

(deseo irrealizable)

pensamiento ilusorio

Idiom

the act of imagining or hoping for something to be true, despite there being little or no evidence or likelihood of it actually happening

What is the origin of the idiom "wishful thinking" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "wishful thinking" can be traced back to the early 19th century. The combination of the words "wish" and "thinking" formed a phrase that encapsulated the human tendency to engage in hopeful or fanciful thoughts that may not align with reality. Over time, the phrase has become a commonly used expression to describe the act of holding optimistic beliefs or desires without a solid foundation in evidence or probability.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Foregone conclusion
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/foːɹɡˈɑːn kənklˈuːʒən/
(conclusión previsible)

(conclusión previsible)

conclusión inevitable

something that is so certain to happen that it can be considered inevitable

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
(last|final) resort
last resort
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/lˈæst ɔːɹ fˈaɪnəl ɹɪzˈɔːɹt/
(recurso de última instancia)

(recurso de última instancia)

último recurso

an option or solution that is only chosen when every other alternative has failed

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
on second thought
On second thought
[ Frase ]
uk flag
/ˌɑːn sˈɛkənd θˈɔːt/
pensándolo bien

pensándolo bien

Idiom

used to state that one has adopted a different opinion

What is the origin of the idiom "on second thought" and when to use it?

The idiom "on second thought" originated in the English language, but its specific origin is difficult to trace. It is a common expression used to convey the idea of reconsidering or revising one's initial thoughts or opinions. The phrase likely emerged from the natural tendency of individuals to reflect and reevaluate their perspectives after having some time to think or gather additional information. It is commonly used when someone reevaluates their initial thoughts, judgments, or decisions after further reflection or consideration.

Saving grace
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/sˈeɪvɪŋ ɡɹˈeɪs/
(factor de salvación)

(factor de salvación)

cualidad redentora

a redeeming quality or factor that prevents a situation or outcome from being completely negative or disastrous

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Mixed blessing
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/mˈɪkst blˈɛsɪŋ/
(bendición y maldición)

(bendición y maldición)

doble filo

something that has both advantages and disadvantages, making it both positive and negative

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
cold feet
Cold feet
[ Sustantivo ]
uk flag
/kˈoʊld fˈiːt/
(rechazo de última hora)

(rechazo de última hora)

miedo de última hora

Idiom

the state in which one loses all one's confidence and willingness to continue doing something

What is the origin of the idiom "make a go of something" and when to use it?

The idiom "cold feet" is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century. One theory suggests that it originated from the physical sensation of having cold feet, which can cause discomfort and unease. This physical discomfort was metaphorically extended to describe a psychological state of hesitation or reluctance. Another theory relates the phrase to theatrical slang, where actors nervous before a performance would have cold feet due to reduced blood flow caused by anxiety. It is often used in discussions about commitments, decisions, or actions that require courage or resolve.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Hooked
[ Adjetivo ]
h
h
oo
ʊ
k
k
e
d
t
(adicto)

(adicto)

enganchado

addicted or extremely enthusiastic about something

Outcry
[ Sustantivo ]
o
a
u
ʊ
t
t
c
k
r
r
y
protesta

protesta

a loud, sustained noise or shout of disapproval, protest, or outrage

Spiritualism
[ Sustantivo ]
s
s
p
p
i
ɪ
r
r
i
ɪ
t
ʧ
ua
l
l
i
ɪ
s
z
m
m
espiritismo

espiritismo

the belief that the human spirit or soul can survive after death and communicate with the living

Hoax
[ Sustantivo ]
h
h
oa
x
ks
(farsa)

(farsa)

engaño

a deceptive act or scheme intended to trick people

bedridden
Bedridden
[ Adjetivo ]
b
b
e
ɛ
d
d
r
r
i
ɪ
dd
d
e
ə
n
n
postrado en cama

postrado en cama

having to stay in bed, usually for a long time, due to illness or injury

to clutch
To clutch
[ Verbo ]
c
k
l
l
u
ʌ
t
ch
ʧ
(asir)

(asir)

agarrar

to seize or grab suddenly and firmly

Información Gramatical:

Transitivo
handcuff
Handcuff
[ Sustantivo ]
h
h
a
æ
n
n
d
d
c
k
u
ʌ
ff
f
esposas

esposas

a pair of rings made of metal with a chain attached to them, used for putting on the wrists of prisoners

to dismiss
To dismiss
[ Verbo ]
d
d
i
ɪ
s
s
m
m
i
ɪ
ss
s
ignorar

ignorar

to disregard something as unimportant or unworthy of consideration

Información Gramatical:

Transitivo
to withstand
To withstand
[ Verbo ]
w
w
i
ɪ
th
θ
s
s
t
t
a
æ
n
n
d
d
(soportar)

(soportar)

resistir

to resist or endure the force, pressure, or challenges imposed upon oneself

Información Gramatical:

Transitivo
Acute
[ Adjetivo ]
a
ə
c
k
u
ju:
t
t
e
agudo

agudo

(of an illness) suddenly becoming severe but for a short time

chronic
to collapse
To collapse
[ Verbo ]
c
k
o
ə
ll
l
a
æ
p
p
s
s
e
sufrir un colapso

sufrir un colapso

(of a person) to fall and become unconscious

Información Gramatical:

Intransitivo
inauspicious
Inauspicious
[ Adjetivo ]
i
ɪ
n
n
a
a
u
ʊ
s
s
p
p
i
ɪ
c
ʃ
iou
ɪ
s
s
desfavorable

desfavorable

putting someone or something at a disadvantage

thoughtful
Thoughtful
[ Adjetivo ]
th
θ
ou
ɔ:
gh
t
t
f
f
u
ə
l
l
(atento)

(atento)

considerado

caring and attentive to the needs, feelings, or well-being of others

eccentric
Eccentric
[ Adjetivo ]
e
ɪ
c
k
c
s
e
ɛ
n
n
t
t
r
r
i
ɪ
c
k
(excéntrico)

(excéntrico)

extravagante

slightly strange in behavior, appearance, or ideas

uncanny
Uncanny
[ Adjetivo ]
u
ə
n
n
c
k
a
æ
nn
n
y
i
(sobrenatural)

(sobrenatural)

inquietante

beyond what is ordinary and indicating the inference of supernatural powers

Deduction
[ Sustantivo ]
d
d
e
ɪ
d
d
u
ʌ
c
k
t
ʃ
io
ə
n
n
(inferencia)

(inferencia)

deducción

the process of using general rules or ideas to make a specific conclusion

skeptical
Skeptical
[ Adjetivo ]
s
s
k
k
e
ɛ
p
p
t
t
i
ə
c
k
a
ə
l
l
escéptico

escéptico

having doubts about something's truth, validity, or reliability

¡Felicidades! !

Aprendiste 35 palabras de Headway Advanced - Unit 4. Para mejorar el aprendizaje y revisar el vocabulario, ¡comienza a practicar!

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