reviewRevisiónchevron down
El libro Street Talk 2 /

Una mirada más cercana: Lección 7

1 / 64
Salir
1-
(as) snug as a bug in a rug
2-
boo hoo
3-
bummer in the summer
4-
by hook or by crook
5-
to be cruising for a bruising
6-
different strokes for different folks
7-
double trouble
8-
(as) drunk as a skunk
9-
fair and square
10-
fender-bender
11-
fuddy-duddy
12-
geez louise
13-
to go with the flow
14-
holy moly
15-
hot to trot
16-
hotshot
17-
humdrum
18-
hustle and bustle
19-
you snooze, you lose
20-
in a while, crocodile
21-
itsy-bitsy
22-
jeepers creepers
23-
jet set
24-
Joe Schmoe
25-
local yokel
26-
loose lips sink ships
27-
lovey-dovey
28-
to have it made in the shade
29-
to make or break
30-
hanky panky
31-
heebie-jeebies
32-
hell's bells
33-
helter-skelter
34-
hocus-pocus
35-
hodgepodge
36-
hoity-toity
37-
okey-dokey
38-
mean and lean
39-
mumbo jumbo
40-
namby-pamby
41-
the nitty-gritty
42-
nitwit
43-
no muss, no fuss
44-
no pain, no gain
45-
no way, Jose
46-
out and about
47-
palsy-walsy
48-
party-hearty
49-
payday
50-
plain Jane
51-
pooper scooper
52-
roly-poly
53-
say it, do not spray it
54-
scarf and barf
55-
see you later, alligator
56-
to shop until somebody drop
57-
silly Billy
58-
super duper
59-
tee-hee
60-
up your nose with a rubber hose
61-
wear and tear
62-
wham-bam, thank you ma'am
63-
what is the plan, Sam?
64-
to wheel and deal
(as|) snug as a bug in a rug
(as) snug as a bug in a rug
Frase
uk flag
/æz snˈʌɡ æz ɐ bˈʌɡ ɪn ɐ ɹˈʌɡ/
N/A

N/A

Approving
Humorous
Idiom
Informal

used to refer to something that is very soothing and comforting

example
Ejemplo
Click on words
As the storm raged on, the campers huddled in their tents, staying as snug as bugs in rugs until it passed.
Curled up by the fireplace with a book and a cup of tea, she felt as snug as a bug in a rug.
What is the origin of the idiom "snug as a bug in a rug" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase "snug as a bug in a rug" is uncertain, but it has been used for a long time to describe a state of complete comfort and coziness. This idiom is frequently used in casual conversations, especially when discussing comfort, relaxation, and the feeling of being snug and well-protected. It can be used in various settings, such as describing a cozy home, a comfortable seating arrangement, or even the satisfaction of a well-executed plan.

boo hoo
interjección
uk flag
/bˈuː hˈuː/
(¡Pobrecito!)

(¡Pobrecito!)

¡Ay de mí!

Humorous
Informal

used to express mock or exaggerated sadness, often in a playful or sarcastic manner

bummer in the summer
Frase
uk flag
/bˈʌmɚɹ ɪnðə sˈʌmɚ/
N/A

N/A

Humorous
Informal

something disappointing or unfortunate, often related to summer activities or plans

by hook or by crook
by hook or by crook
Frase
uk flag
/baɪ hˈʊk ɔːɹ baɪ kɹˈʊk/
N/A

N/A

by any means that is necessary

to be cruising for a bruising
Frase
uk flag
/biː kɹˈuːzɪŋ fɚɹə bɹˈuːzɪŋ/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

to knowingly do what can get one into trouble

What is the origin of the idiom "be cruising for a bruising" and when to use it?

This idiomatic expression "be cruising for a bruising" likely originated in the mid-20th century, and it conveys a warning or prediction of trouble or harm. The phrase is used to suggest a sense of impending trouble, emphasizing that the person's actions or attitude are provocative or risky.

different strokes for different folks
Oración
uk flag
/dˈɪfɹənt stɹˈoʊks fɔːɹ dˈɪfɹənt fˈoʊks/
N/A

N/A

Proverb

used to emphasize that people have different tastes, preferences, and needs, and that it is important to recognize and respect these differences

What is the origin of the proverb "different strokes for different folks" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "different strokes for different folks" is commonly attributed to the 1960s, though variations of the phrase were used earlier. It highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting individual differences, whether in opinions, approaches, or interests. The proverb also serves as a reminder to avoid judgment, as what is suitable for one person may not necessarily be the same for someone else.

double trouble
Sustantivo
uk flag
/dˈʌbəl tɹˈʌbəl/
(doble dificultad)

(doble dificultad)

doble problema

*** a situation in which there is twice the number of problems that usually exist

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
(as) drunk as a skunk
Frase
uk flag
/æz ɔːɹ dɹˈʌŋk æz ɐ skˈʌŋk ɔːɹ fˈɪdlɚ/
N/A

N/A

so intoxicated with alcohol that one starts behaving like a lunatic

What is the origin of the idiom "drunk as a skunk" and when to use it?

The idiom "drunk as a skunk" is a humorous expression used to describe someone who is heavily intoxicated or inebriated due to the consumption of alcohol. The origin of the phrase is uncertain, but it likely stems from the playfulness of the rhyming words, emphasizing the extreme state of drunkenness. It's not meant to be taken literally; rather, it's a lighthearted way to convey someone's high level of alcohol intoxication.

fair and square
fair and square
Frase
uk flag
/fˈɛɹ ænd skwˈɛɹ/
N/A

N/A

Approving
Idiom

done honestly, justly, or without disobeying any rules

What is the origin of the idiom "fair and square" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "fair and square" can be traced back to the early 17th century in England. The term "fair" refers to something that is just, equitable, or honest, while "square" implies something that is straight, direct, or in accordance with the rules. Over time, this phrase has become a widely recognized and used expression to emphasize the importance of integrity and fairness in various aspects of life.

fender-bender
Sustantivo
uk flag
/fˈɛndɚbˈɛndɚ/
(accidente leve)

(accidente leve)

choque leve

a minor car accident that usually involves small damage to the vehicles

What is a "fender-bender"?

A fender-bender is a minor car accident, usually involving a small collision between vehicles at low speeds. It often results in little damage, mostly to the fenders or bumpers of the cars involved. These accidents are typically not serious and may not cause injuries, but drivers still need to exchange information for insurance purposes and may file claims for repairs. Fender-benders commonly happen in places like parking lots or traffic jams.

fuddy-duddy
Sustantivo
uk flag
/fˈʌdidˈʌdi/
(soso)

(soso)

anticuado

a conservative who is old-fashioned or dull in attitude or appearance

geez louise
interjección
uk flag
/dʒˈiːz luːwˈiːz/
(¡Ay)

(¡Ay)

¡Caramba!

Humorous
Informal
Old use

used to convey surprise, frustration, or disbelief, often in a mild or humorous way

to go with the flow
Frase
uk flag
/ɡˌoʊ wɪððə flˈoʊ/
N/A

N/A

Everyday expression
Idiom

to accept things as they happen, without trying to control or resist them

holy moly
holy moly
interjección
uk flag
/hˈoʊli mˈoʊli/
(¡Caramba!)

(¡Caramba!)

¡Madre mía!

Idiom
Informal

used to express one's surprise or bewilderment

What is the origin of the idiom "holy moly" and when to use it?

The idiom "holy moly" is used to express surprise, confusion, or amazement. It is similar in meaning to "holy cow" or "holy smokes." This phrase is often used in casual conversation to add emphasis to a reaction or convey a sense of wonder. The origin of this expression is not precisely documented, but it has evolved as a lighthearted way to express such feelings without resorting to strong language.

hot to trot
Frase
uk flag
/hˈɑːt tə tɹˈɑːt/
N/A

N/A

used to describe someone who is very interested in having sex

What is the origin of the idiom "hot to trot" and when to use it?

The idiom "hot to trot" originated in the early 20th century and is associated with horse racing terminology. In horse racing, a horse that is "hot to trot" is eager, spirited, and ready to start running. Over time, the phrase was adapted and humorously applied to describe individuals who exhibit a similar level of eagerness and readiness in a sexual context. It is used to describe someone who is extremely eager or enthusiastic about engaging in sexual activities.

hotshot
Sustantivo
h
h
o
ɑ
t
sh
ʃ
o
ɑ
t
t
personaje

personaje

someone who is extraordinarily successful and talented at what they do

humdrum
Adjetivo
h
h
u
ə
m
m
d
d
r
r
u
ə
m
m
rutinario

rutinario

Disapproving
Informal

lacking excitement or variety

hustle and bustle
Frase
uk flag
/hˈʌsəl ænd bˈʌsəl/
N/A

N/A

Collocation

a busy, noisy, and active environment or situation

you snooze, you lose
Oración
uk flag
/juː snˈuːz juː lˈuːz/
N/A

N/A

Proverb

used to emphasize the importance of staying cautious and alert, so as not to miss any opportunities

What is the origin of the proverb "you snooze, you lose" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the proverb "you snooze, you lose" is unclear, it likely emerged from informal speech in the 20th century, reflecting a growing emphasis on quick decision-making and responsiveness. This saying encourages people to stay engaged and aware, suggesting that those who hesitate or delay may find that opportunities have passed them by. It highlights the importance of being timely and prepared in order to seize what comes one's way.

in a while, crocodile
Frase
uk flag
/ɪn ɐ wˈaɪl kɹˈɑːkədˌaɪl/
N/A

N/A

Everyday expression
Humorous
Informal

used to respond to a farewell, typically in a fun or lighthearted way

itsy-bitsy
Adjetivo
uk flag
/ˌɪtsiˈbɪtsi/
(pequeñito)

(pequeñito)

itsy-bitsy

extremely small, often in a cute or endearing way

jeepers creepers
interjección
uk flag
/dʒˈiːpɚz kɹˈiːpɚz/
(¡Vaya!)

(¡Vaya!)

¡Caramba!

Humorous
Informal
Old use

used to express astonishment or sometimes mild frustration, often in a playful or exaggerated way

jet set
Sustantivo
uk flag
/dʒˈɛt sˈɛt/
(la élite viajera)

(la élite viajera)

la jet set

a group of wealthy, stylish individuals who travel frequently and luxuriously, often to exclusive destinations for leisure and social activities

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
Joe Schmoe
Sustantivo
uk flag
/dʒˈoʊ ʃmˈoʊ/
(Cualquiera)

(Cualquiera)

Juan de a pie

Humorous
Informal
Old use

a term used to refer to an average or ordinary person, often in a dismissive or humorous way

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
local yokel
Sustantivo
uk flag
/lˈoʊkəl jˈoʊkəl/
(campesino)

(campesino)

pueblerino

Disapproving
Humorous
Informal

a person from a rural or small town, often used in a slightly mocking or humorous way

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
loose lips sink ships
Oración
uk flag
/lˈuːs lˈɪps sˈɪŋk ʃˈɪps/
N/A

N/A

Proverb

used to warn against the dangers of careless talk or gossip, particularly in situations where secrecy or confidentiality is important, as it can have serious consequences

What is the origin of the proverb "loose lips sink ships" and when to use it?

The proverb "loose lips sink ships" originates from World War II and was popularized by the United States government as part of a campaign to encourage military personnel and civilians to keep sensitive information confidential. The saying uses the metaphor of a ship sinking due to leaks, implying that revealing secrets or talking recklessly can lead to significant problems. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of what is said, especially when dealing with sensitive or confidential matters, as even small slips of the tongue can have large repercussions.

lovey-dovey
Adjetivo
uk flag
/lˈʌvidˈʌvi/
(excesivamente romántico)

(excesivamente romántico)

muy cariñoso

***very affectionate or romantic, especially excessively so

to [have] it made in the shade
to have it made in the shade
Frase
uk flag
/hæv ɪt mˌeɪd ɪnðə ʃˈeɪd/
N/A

N/A

Idiom

to be in a very good position and be living a luxurious life

What is the origin of the idiom "have it made in the shade" and when to use it?

The origin of the phrase "have it made in the shade" is uncertain, but it likely emerged in the United States during the mid-20th century. This idiom is used to describe someone who is in a highly favorable or advantageous position, often characterized by prosperity, success, and a lack of worries or difficulties.

to [make] or [break]
to make or break
Frase
uk flag
/mˌeɪk ɔːɹ bɹˈeɪk/
llevar al éxito o al fracaso

llevar al éxito o al fracaso

Idiom

to bring about either success or failure for someone or something

What is the origin of the idiom "make or break" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "make or break" is believed to have originated in the world of sports in the 19th century. It is likely that the phrase originally referred to a key moment in a sporting event, where the outcome would determine whether a team or player would win or lose. Over time, the phrase began to be used more widely to describe any situation where the outcome was crucial and would have a significant impact on the future. It is used to describe a situation where something will either lead to success or failure, with nothing in between.

hanky panky
Sustantivo
uk flag
/hˈæŋki pˈæŋki/
(timo)

(timo)

engaño

verbal misrepresentation intended to take advantage of you in some way

heebie-jeebies
Sustantivo
uk flag
/hˈiːbidʒˈiːbɪz/
(inquietud extrema)

(inquietud extrema)

nerviosismo extremo

extreme nervousness

hell's bells
hell's bells
Sustantivo
uk flag
/hˈɛlz bˈɛlz/
(¡Vaya lío!)

(¡Vaya lío!)

¡Demonios!

Idiom
Informal

used to show one's frustration, surprise, or anger

What is the origin of the idiom "hell's bells" and when to use it?

The idiom "hell's bells" is an informal exclamation that is used to express surprise, annoyance, or frustration. It is typically used in casual language and is often used to emphasize a reaction or to convey a sense of exasperation. The precise origin of this expression is not well-documented, but it has been in use for many years.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
helter-skelter
Adverbio
uk flag
/ˌhɛɫtɝˈskɛɫtɝ/
(alocadamente)

(alocadamente)

desordenadamente

haphazardly

hocus-pocus
hocus-pocus
interjección
uk flag
/hˈoʊkəspˈoʊkəs/
(¡alakazam!)

(¡alakazam!)

¡abracadabra!

used as part of the magician's patter to create excitement and anticipation for the magical effect about to occur

What is the origin of 'hocus-pocus'?

The exact origin of "hocus-pocus" is uncertain, but it's believed to have originated as a nonsensical term associated with magic spells and incantations. One theory suggests that it may have derived from the Latin phrase "hoc est corpus" (meaning "this is the body"), which was historically used during the Christian ritual of transubstantiation.

hodgepodge
Sustantivo
h
h
o
ɑ
dg
ʤ
e
p
p
o
ɑ
dg
ʤ
e
(mamarrachada)

(mamarrachada)

mezcla

a theory or argument made up of miscellaneous or incongruous ideas

hoity-toity
Adjetivo
uk flag
/hˈɔɪɾitˈɔɪɾi/
(afectado)

(afectado)

pretencioso

affectedly genteel

okey-dokey
okey-dokey
interjección
uk flag
/ˈoʊkiˈdoʊki/
( vale)

( vale)

Vale

used to show agreement, approval, etc.

mean and lean
Frase
uk flag
/mˈiːn ænd lˈiːn/
N/A

N/A

Approving
Collocation
Idiom

(of a person) tough, efficient, and in peak physical or functional condition

mumbo jumbo
Sustantivo
uk flag
/mˈʌmboʊ dʒˈʌmboʊ/
(charlas sin sentido)

(charlas sin sentido)

palabrería incomprensible

Idiom
Informal

complicated activities, rituals, or words that lack any real purpose

What is the origin of the idiom "mumbo jumbo" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "mumbo jumbo" is believed to be the result of the combining of two unrelated terms: "mumbo" and "jumbo." It has its roots in West African religious practices, particularly those of the Mandinka tribe. "Mumbo jumbo" refers to the ceremonial language or chants used by tribal priests in their rituals, which were often unintelligible to outsiders. Over time, the term evolved to describe any language or speech that appears complex, obscure, or nonsensical. Today, "mumbo jumbo" is used figuratively to refer to incomprehensible or confusing language, ideas, or actions.

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
namby-pamby
Adjetivo
uk flag
/ˈnæmbiˈpæmbi/
(blando)

(blando)

débil

weak in willpower, courage or vitality

the nitty-gritty
Frase
uk flag
/nˈɪɾiɡɹˈɪɾi/
N/A

N/A

the most important aspects or principles of something such as an experience or idea

What is the origin of the idiom "the nitty-gritty" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "the nitty-gritty" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in African American slang in the mid-20th century. It is derived from the term "nits and grits," which refers to the undesirable and tedious aspects of a task or situation. Over time, this expression evolved to represent the essential, detailed, and often less glamorous or appealing parts of a matter. It emphasizes getting down to the core or essence of something, leaving behind the superficial or peripheral aspects.

nitwit
Sustantivo
n
n
i
ɪ
t
t
w
w
i
ɪ
t
t
(torpe)

(torpe)

necio

a foolish or clueless person

no muss, no fuss
no muss, no fuss
Oración
uk flag
/nˈoʊ mˈʌs nˈoʊ fˈʌs/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

said to mean that something can be easily done or achieved

What is the origin of the idiom "no muss, no fuss" and when to use it?

The idiom "no muss, no fuss" originated in colloquial American English in the early 20th century. While the precise historical origin is not definitively documented, it is a phrase that has evolved naturally in language to describe straightforward and uncomplicated situations or processes. The use of "muss" and "fuss" in this idiom emphasizes the idea that a task or situation is free from mess or trouble.

no pain, no gain
Frase
uk flag
/nˈoʊ pˈeɪn nˈoʊ ɡˈeɪn/
( no hay ganancia)

( no hay ganancia)

sin dolor

Proverb

used for saying that without working hard and experiencing difficulties, one cannot achieve anything

no way, Jose
interjección
uk flag
/nˈoʊ wˈeɪ hoʊsˈeɪ/
( José!)

( José!)

¡De ninguna manera

used to indicate that something is absolutely not going to happen or is completely unacceptable, often in a playful or exaggerated manner

out and about
Adverbio
uk flag
/ˈaʊt ænd ɐbˈaʊt/
(por ahí)

(por ahí)

fuera y sobre la marcha

out of the house or office, and actively engaged in various activities, especially outdoors

palsy-walsy
Adjetivo
uk flag
/pˈɔːlziwˈɑːlsi/
(falsamente amigable)

(falsamente amigable)

excesivamente familiar

Humorous
Informal

used to describe a relationship or behavior that is overly familiar or insincerely friendly, often to the point of being exaggerated or forced

party-hearty
Adjetivo
uk flag
/pˈɑːɹɾihˈɑːɹɾi/
(juerguista)

(juerguista)

fiestera

Humorous
Informal

used to describe someone who is energetic, enthusiastic, and excessive in their approach to partying or celebrating

payday
Sustantivo
p
p
a
e
y
ɪ
d
d
a
e
y
ɪ
(pago)

(pago)

día de pago

the day on which you receive pay for your work

plain Jane
Frase
uk flag
/plˈeɪn dʒˈeɪn/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Offensive

a woman who is perceived as ordinary or unremarkable in appearance or style

pooper scooper
Sustantivo
uk flag
/pˈuːpɚ skˈuːpɚ/
(paleta para mascotas)

(paleta para mascotas)

recogedor de excremento

a tool or device used for picking up animal waste, particularly from dogs, in outdoor areas

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
roly-poly
roly-poly
Adjetivo
uk flag
/ɹˈoʊlipˈɑːli/
regordete

regordete

being short and fat

say it, do not spray it
say it, do not spray it
Oración
uk flag
/sˈeɪ ɪt duːnˌɑːt spɹˈeɪ ɪt/
N/A

N/A

Humorous
Idiom
Informal

used to tell someone to not spit when they are talking

What is the origin of the idiom "say it, do not spray it" and when to use it?

The idiom "say it, do not spray it" is a humorous and informal idiom, and it does not have a widely documented origin. It is primarily used to gently remind someone to speak clearly and without inadvertently releasing saliva during conversation, often in a playful or teasing manner. This idiom emphasizes the importance of enunciating words properly to avoid any discomfort or distractions caused by excessive spitting while speaking.

scarf and barf
Frase
uk flag
/skˈɑːɹf ænd bˈɑːɹf/
N/A

N/A

Humorous
Informal

the action of eating something rapidly or in large quantities, leading to feeling so full or sick that vomiting occurs afterward

see you later, alligator
Oración
uk flag
/sˈiː juː lˈeɪɾɚ ˈælᵻɡˌeɪɾɚ/
N/A

N/A

Humorous
Informal

used to informally say goodbye, often in a playful or lighthearted manner

to shop until somebody drop
Frase
uk flag
/ʃˈɑːp ʌntˈɪl ˌɛsbˈiː dɹˈɑːp/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

to shop for an extended period of time, often to the point of exhaustion

silly Billy
Sustantivo
uk flag
/sˈɪli bˈɪli/
(bobalicón)

(bobalicón)

tonto querido

Humorous
Informal

used to playfully call someone who is acting foolish or silly, often in an affectionate or teasing manner

Información Gramatical:

Sustantivo Compuesto
super duper
Adjetivo
uk flag
/sˈuːpɚ dˈuːpɚ/
(increíblemente asombroso)

(increíblemente asombroso)

súper genial

Approving
Informal

used to describe something that is exceptionally good, impressive, or intense

tee-hee
interjección
uk flag
/tˈiːhˈiː/
(¡Ji ji!)

(¡Ji ji!)

¡Jejeje!

Humorous
Informal

used to represent a light, giggly, or mischievous laugh, often in a playful or teasing manner

up your nose with a rubber hose
Frase
uk flag
/ˌʌp jʊɹ nˈoʊz wɪð ɐ ɹˈʌbɚ hˈoʊz/
N/A

N/A

Humorous
Informal

used to playfully or mockingly dismiss someone, often as a lighthearted insult or comeback

wear and tear
Frase
uk flag
/wˈɛɹ ɐnd tˈɛɹ/
N/A

N/A

the gradual damage or deterioration that occurs to an object or property as a result of normal use or aging

wham-bam, thank you ma'am
Oración
uk flag
/wˈæmbˈæm θˈæŋk juː mˈææm/
N/A

N/A

Disapproving
Informal
Offensive

used to describe a quick, casual sexual encounter, where there is little to no emotional involvement, often followed by a swift departure or goodbye

what is the plan, Sam?
Oración
uk flag
/wˌʌt ɪz ðə plˈæn sˈæm/
N/A

N/A

Humorous
Informal
Old use

used to ask someone for their intended course of action or next steps, often in a casual or lighthearted manner

to [wheel] and [deal]
to wheel and deal
Frase
uk flag
/wˈiːl ænd dˈiːl/
N/A

N/A

Idiom
Informal

to use various dishonest or complicated methods in order to gain things, particularly in politics or business

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

The origin of the idiom "wheel and deal" can be traced back to the early 20th century in American English. It likely originated from the world of gambling, where players would spin the wheel and engage in various deals and negotiations during games of chance. This expression is informal and is often used in a business or negotiation context. It refers to the act of engaging in a series of negotiations, deals, or transactions, often with a focus on achieving one's goals or interests. It can also imply that the person is adept at navigating complex or tricky situations.

¡Felicidades! !

Aprendiste 64 palabras de A Closer Look: Lesson 7. Para mejorar el aprendizaje y revisar el vocabulario, ¡comienza a practicar!

review-disable

Revisión

flashcard-disable

Tarjetas de memoria

spelling-disable

Ortografía

quiz-disable

Cuestionario

practice