The origin of the idiom "an arm and leg" is uncertain, but it is believed to have become popular in the mid-20th century, possibly influenced by similar expressions that imply a significant cost or sacrifice. This phrase is used to describe something that is excessively expensive or requires a significant sacrifice in terms of cost or effort.

What is the origin of the idiom "an arm and leg" and when to use it?

an arm and (a|) leg

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YW4gYXJtIGFuZCBhIGxlZw&hash=a2914506536d84988a7e6dfc9faab01b5f599e49&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YW4gYXJtIGFuZCBhIGxlZw&hash=2d7546b23463933c7a16cc45b251b0362c79c12f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

dive

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZGl2ZQ&hash=bd9cc200872914d2d0f663cb5b9e629c39e49253&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZGl2ZQ&hash=dd362eed5ea09b249dcec2b0c38b769020c80bd3&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The idiom "fat chance" is used to express extreme skepticism or a belief that something is highly unlikely to happen. The origin of this phrase is uncertain, but it likely stems from the idea that a "fat" or significant chance is actually quite slim.

What is the origin of the idiom "fat chance" and when to use it?

fat chance

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZmF0IGNoYW5jZQ&hash=7d860724228b55b616bdc7af7fc3f3cc57c95e28&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZmF0IGNoYW5jZQ&hash=a72ac7f1383fb4e3a4c7cb843163fb7774d3f0c4&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

blimp

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YmxpbXA&hash=cd704c1250ed8e590a05344b0f65e67a12e0a99a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YmxpbXA&hash=88faa43e4523ff3d3e5ad1c76b98e24dedb5c927&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The idiom "come off it" is an informal expression that is used to indicate skepticism or disbelief when someone makes statements or claims that are considered unrealistic or insincere. While the precise historical origin of the phrase is not documented, it has been in use in everyday language for many years. This expression is used to express skepticism or disbelief when someone is making statements or claims that are considered unrealistic, exaggerated, or insincere.

What is the origin of the idiom "come off it" and when to use it?

come off it

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Y29tZSBvZmYgaXQ&hash=092a7e58ee5efaa0c9c4bb24830ba260f645ca0c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Y29tZSBvZmYgaXQ&hash=79d14458d47fcba142a74b46784d949f9aaaf99a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

fries

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZnJpZXM&hash=93fc5e91273ba6d315d0f6f8eb25b27401d7d99f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZnJpZXM&hash=e836e139b847a0200b22f953187df261d829b0e1&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The exact origin of the idiom "grab a bite" is somewhat challenging to trace, as it likely emerged informally in everyday language. However, it stems from the inherent meaning of the individual words. "Grab" suggests a quick and informal action, while "a bite" refers to a small serving of food. It  is used to describe the act of having a quick, often informal meal or snack, especially when time is limited, and formality is not necessary.

What is the origin of the idiom "grab a bite" and when to use it?

to [grab] a bite (to eat|)

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ3JhYiBhIGJpdGUgdG8gZWF0&hash=58da9f0728c0ecd1f17268b9d721b867ad05482c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ3JhYiBhIGJpdGUgdG8gZWF0&hash=124d3e26e66a204559f4f7edf434a1fed65a4b1f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The exact origin of the phrase "have a cow" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. This expression is commonly used in casual conversations, humorous exchanges, and popular culture references. It can be used to highlight moments of frustration, surprise, or outrage, often in a playful or humorous manner.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a cow" and when to use it?

to [have] a cow

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGF2ZSBhIGNvdw&hash=6d7f1f6dd193484613c9e7e7905f47dc663bb7e2&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGF2ZSBhIGNvdw&hash=2a063e4e634ce1cde56d218ef4212cf98e324193&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to [be] into {sb/sth}

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYmUgaW50byBzb21lYm9keSBvciBzb21ldGhpbmc&hash=7f24c6aafb6321eeb5c82ce3e2b5294594ac0b88&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYmUgaW50byBzb21lYm9keSBvciBzb21ldGhpbmc&hash=6bb8fc2e72d788b2a91bb8857a551a76e3d67e9e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

john

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=am9obg&hash=37f8b55fb9ca5db8c036aae401869e067128ac1c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=am9obg&hash=943ec2ffe01741fbac1c9dd9868f269c4c2e3434&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The phrase "to lose it" means to lose emotional control, such as becoming very angry, upset, or overwhelmed, often resulting in shouting, crying, or erratic behavior. The structure is a metaphor where "lose" refers to losing control of one's mental or emotional stability. It is informal slang commonly used in everyday speech to describe a breakdown in composure or self-control.

What does "to lose it" mean in emotional slang?

to [lose] it

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gbG9zZSBpdA&hash=2aec33c66dd9ee1e4ea71c3d3c9f913316dc37ca&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gbG9zZSBpdA&hash=84c4a29de394e149e7983080b6d449f03451ecad&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to polish off

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gcG9saXNoIG9mZg&hash=a89a931da3a96f41d22deef16ca578692cd4755a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gcG9saXNoIG9mZg&hash=7f5e66459458483e03ab1698cf9cb4877bf4a4a1&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The origin of the idiom"off the bat" is rooted in baseball terminology. In baseball, when a batter hits the ball, it makes immediate contact with the bat and quickly flies off. This association of swift action and immediate response likely influenced the idiomatic usage of this expression to describe an action that is done without instantly and without any hesitation.

What is the origin of the idiom "off the bat" and when to use it?

(right|) off the bat

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cmlnaHQgb2ZmIHRoZSBiYXQ&hash=c2ef819616ad77ffdad3be8b4042181cf3cf16fb&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cmlnaHQgb2ZmIHRoZSBiYXQ&hash=027ecbfa171be45ec654229385c93b4d53137fe1&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

ritzy

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cml0enk&hash=67f42c6fd49bf300440869f6c673892d0d85cbda&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cml0enk&hash=af2e50185ebffbc5fd655febc09f7f13a23da195&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The origin of the idiom "have a screw loose" is not definitively known, but it is believed to have originated from the mechanical world, where a loose or missing screw could cause a machine or device to malfunction. It can be used to highlight eccentricities, irrational thinking, or unusual actions, often in a light-hearted or humorous manner, though it should be used with caution to avoid causing offense.

What is the origin of the idiom "have a screw loose" and when to use it?

to [have] a screw (loose|missing)

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGF2ZSBhIHNjcmV3IGxvb3Nl&hash=8d9ad929f680efada2a2cdfa9d1d748dd359a345&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGF2ZSBhIHNjcmV3IGxvb3Nl&hash=c26a93695a3a28e86c24f32a6b31b3ddb1c6815d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

Slop refers to food that is watery, unappetizing, or of poor quality, often served in institutional settings like prisons, hospitals, or military barracks. It is typically characterized by its lack of flavor, texture, or nutritional value and may be served in large quantities without much attention to presentation or taste.

What is a "slop"?

slop

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c2xvcA&hash=8634f12b4edf2fd06736b960d3961fcf4ee4ec8f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c2xvcA&hash=beafc9d74390420b7eba143a823a35d6d83db199&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to stink

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3Rpbms&hash=7c3119c362cae0b7cf9635829b1373bd93463c1b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3Rpbms&hash=17dc0f7be68b7fd65a5ad832599c0eab91bdaca9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The idiom "stop in one's tracks" likely originated from the literal act of suddenly halting one's movement or progress. It is used figuratively to describe a situation where someone is so surprised, shocked, or confronted with a significant event or information that it causes them to stop or freeze in place, as if their physical and mental momentum has been abruptly halted.

What is the origin of the idiom "stop in one's tracks" and when to use it?

to [stop] (dead|right|) in {one's} tracks

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3RvcCBkZWFkIGluIG9uZSdzIHRyYWNrcw&hash=d13561b3cdf4f44bb73669323f96b8efd13b843a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3RvcCBkZWFkIGluIG9uZSdzIHRyYWNrcw&hash=ab64dd98579b756d81d7ceefcade9e0d3aa46317&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to tip off

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gdGlwIG9mZg&hash=1749a8ec4e26462f9c0ce9afcbc260c4a443996d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gdGlwIG9mZg&hash=5c818ae1241f759fd6d8dc7540e2814bbb86794d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to wash down

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gd2FzaCBkb3du&hash=6c530fe0d160155b0f90badbfc7f5c4e9d5482ca&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gd2FzaCBkb3du&hash=bae88ededa2095c81b95622de817b9b3b1986a7d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

A joint is an informal term used to refer to a casual dining establishment, often with a laid-back atmosphere and simple décor. These places are typically known for serving delicious, hearty meals that satisfy cravings without being expensive. Joints often specialize in comfort foods like burgers, sandwiches, fries, and other classic dishes, offering generous portions at affordable prices. While the vibe may be relaxed, joints prioritize quality ingredients and flavorful cooking, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for people.

What is a "joint"?

joint

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=am9pbnQ&hash=a81284167e96dfe6d588faf22a7b9a7ea1a124d9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=am9pbnQ&hash=817bbcedc5e84216c060433f3e9882a17375f397&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to chow down

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gY2hvdyBkb3du&hash=53ff5e75ba78d37baffe829a885c722afd5eb54f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gY2hvdyBkb3du&hash=903f9dbce6e4db6ca9b3fb7658fa2b70612a5afd&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to hold

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaG9sZA&hash=18f3fcbf726d821240d6ef73b59171b6b0200d8b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaG9sZA&hash=b9387c726cf1232d846a5c7f74dd17f2dfac700e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

living soul

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGl2aW5nIHNvdWw&hash=7c84faec2cfa4ffed24fdcf9daba5c81f8f5ac98&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGl2aW5nIHNvdWw&hash=94cc9186c49736ed2d356b393697ec6153d088fa&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

poker

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cG9rZXI&hash=745d59eb7206208ceaf6991dc1769442be6af00e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cG9rZXI&hash=e442bbeb70d43b040986aa026a93c94dce3203d6&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

sneaking

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c25lYWtpbmc&hash=146417af22744e6c2a1643a4be6cc4893bcb2f13&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c25lYWtpbmc&hash=b503d1bb7d58dfdb972df5c14237ad538551fd6c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to [set] foot in

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc2V0IGZvb3QgaW4&hash=774abb7b316caacbdaa6e4106e20b166b813aed0&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc2V0IGZvb3QgaW4&hash=7beb49fbb75b9c5b25b570a7608cabca99157d37&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to [stiff] a waiter

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3RpZmYgYSB3YWl0ZXI&hash=6122605ad4c2979808e20739d3a0e953b235cf95&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gc3RpZmYgYSB3YWl0ZXI&hash=f9ed32d15d9d1323abaf4353a9030f7d29a6f518&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

one in a million

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b25lIGluIGEgbWlsbGlvbg&hash=3e1fa0718fa4cd759b336c4dbd52d545c02e3c1a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b25lIGluIGEgbWlsbGlvbg&hash=d964ed5981954053b77f021119cb3702ea6f2b29&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

give me five

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Z2l2ZSBtZSBmaXZl&hash=67d0144a2bb33d05fc275c3707cf86039576d3d7&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Z2l2ZSBtZSBmaXZl&hash=23aefe03f4140b42a712bf2cda0fbc621a1643e3&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

The origin of the phrase "in seventh heaven" can be traced back to ancient religious beliefs and numerology. In many religious traditions, the number seven is considered sacred and represents perfection or completeness. In this context, being in the seventh heaven would mean being in the highest or most perfect state of happiness. This idiom is typically used in various situations where someone wants to express a state of extreme happiness or delight.

What is the origin of the idiom "in seventh heaven" and when to use it?

in seventh heaven

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aW4gc2V2ZW50aCBoZWF2ZW4&hash=2a4f45bbee04c4950bb2cc577f8407acf0035490&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aW4gc2V2ZW50aCBoZWF2ZW4&hash=470ee472032c7661751e1b99c15e045ba249339e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

nine to five

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bmluZSB0byBmaXZl&hash=2f7dd781d78ae2170746008e421133658c279dab&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bmluZSB0byBmaXZl&hash=db2bc1c0073ba64faf17ac7ec04680da743bb64d&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to [hang] ten

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGFuZyB0ZW4&hash=6140e92231a65d6ff76c4b0673cf1f585b6e2e49&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGFuZyB0ZW4&hash=7c34bbc63cf7950d9386404c020df92dee0484f9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

to eighty-six

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZWlnaHR5LXNpeA&hash=d12a05b9cb9e93887d2eb9c9c74b9b2a60578b6e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZWlnaHR5LXNpeA&hash=2244d0fff21e431ec9f58a4ab8cef3a122e36a25&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

eighty-eight

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZWlnaHR5LWVpZ2h0&hash=425e99068c4eccb7168d55034040439016c22547&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZWlnaHR5LWVpZ2h0&hash=22bc0a9ad2c6756ce2bdd7110af63c437dd75a5b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

if I have told you once, I have told you a thousand times

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aWYgSSBoYXZlIHRvbGQgeW91IG9uY2UsIEkgaGF2ZSB0b2xkIHlvdSBhIHRob3VzYW5kIHRpbWVz&hash=b386d0da9609400442b55ad31f260488eb520d6e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aWYgSSBoYXZlIHRvbGQgeW91IG9uY2UsIEkgaGF2ZSB0b2xkIHlvdSBhIHRob3VzYW5kIHRpbWVz&hash=ae7905d14361f9c153d9d4946d9d2ebec2f7766e&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=GB

Lección 10

Palabras en inglés usadas en el habla callejera 1 - Lección 10

Lesson 10

English words used in Street Talk 1  - Lesson 10