unconventional

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dW5jb252ZW50aW9uYWw&hash=71171067b0110f9f212323716d56e1988f06bcc5&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

swishy

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=c3dpc2h5&hash=f5ea69b29a31ea9df792bcf435f7f763f33171f0&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

gleaming

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Z2xlYW1pbmc&hash=6ca7343601f5ed6aacb2e19aad0d9971bf578e4b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

haphazard

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aGFwaGF6YXJk&hash=18f3858a48c614ead1f2d7b53fb79cab34819981&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

flamboyance

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZmxhbWJveWFuY2U&hash=ee981f73c34c318c3a707cedaaa7ad7e0d5d0407&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

asymmetry

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YXN5bW1ldHJ5&hash=43348940f257cf6d444d689995597eab063a003b&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

multifaceted

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bXVsdGlmYWNldGVk&hash=bdf898765111b4d75ead841ad5275041a037c2dc&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

underachiever

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dW5kZXJhY2hpZXZlcg&hash=7472f2168efc4206fb9e20eaceed2bceee20f587&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

postwar

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cG9zdHdhcg&hash=3c6fdc5b0a280a9e221d766d6c32a86ca6adfc42&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

democratic

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=ZGVtb2NyYXRpYw&hash=f070d66052393d2e2203cbb971b163d59559504c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

A subway is an underground train system used for public transportation within cities. It is designed to carry large numbers of passengers quickly and efficiently, especially in busy urban areas. Subways usually have multiple stops along fixed routes, allowing people to travel between different parts of the city without being affected by surface traffic. These trains are typically faster than buses and can handle high volumes of passengers during rush hours. Subways are often a preferred mode of transport in cities with heavy traffic or limited road space.

What is a "subway"?

subway

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A backdrop is a large piece of fabric or scenery that hangs at the rear of a theater stage, serving as the background for the action taking place. It can be painted or designed to represent various settings, like a landscape, a room, or a sky. The backdrop helps establish the environment for the performance and can change throughout the play to indicate different locations or moods.

What is a "backdrop"?

backdrop

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YmFja2Ryb3A&hash=0bbbb7b759f2d256b35be35f034b76d7ec0ed437&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to predate

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gcHJlZGF0ZQ&hash=43a203da1cc64a234899e2fb498e28b9456b6ad9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

A monorail is a type of railway system where the train runs on a single rail, usually elevated above the ground. The track is supported by columns or beams, and the train moves along the rail, often in urban areas or theme parks. Monorails are designed to take up less space than traditional two-rail systems, and they can avoid traffic by traveling above ground. They are often used for public transportation, offering a quick and efficient way to move people through busy cities or specific locations.

What is a "monorail"?

monorail

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bW9ub3JhaWw&hash=aa7a3ca2bfd54eee3ab2310ec4601008616938a9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "through the back door" originates from the literal concept of entering or exiting a building through the rear entrance instead of the main or formal entrance. Metaphorically, the phrase signifies achieving or obtaining something by using unconventional, indirect, or secretive means rather than following the usual or expected route or process. It is used to imply a sense of bypassing established rules, norms, or procedures, often with the intention of gaining an advantage or avoiding scrutiny or attention.

What is the origin of the idiom "through the back door" and when to use it?

through the back door

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dGhyb3VnaCB0aGUgYmFjayBkb29y&hash=4a78375b04335b8171dcf6a375c1ee5339f00d84&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "glass ceiling" was employed in the late 1970s to describe invisible barriers that prevent women and minorities from advancing to high-level positions in the workplace, symbolizing gender and diversity inequality. It is commonly employed in discussions about gender equality, workplace diversity, and social justice.

What is the origin of the idiom "glass ceiling" and when to use it?

glass ceiling

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=Z2xhc3MgY2VpbGluZw&hash=716b6deed47e1079f20c11f9e23cfade01be1361&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The exact origin of the phrase "drive someone up the wall" is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in the early to mid-20th century. It is commonly employed in conversations, anecdotes, or storytelling to describe persistent behaviors, annoying habits, or aggravating circumstances that elicit strong negative emotions. The phrase can be used in personal experiences, workplace dynamics, relationships, or any situation where someone's actions or situations become a constant source of annoyance.

What is the origin of the idiom "drive someone up the wall" and when to use it?

to [drive] {sb} up the wall

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZHJpdmUgc29tZWJvZHkgdXAgdGhlIHdhbGw&hash=b12431428a93ace4cd8354b5d82ebae7d80fc13f&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of the phrase "hit the roof" is not definitively known, but it is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century. The expression likely draws on the image of someone becoming so furious that they metaphorically "hit" or "explode through" the roof, symbolizing their extreme anger and emotional outburst. It is typically employed to describe situations where individuals become explosively furious, often in response to unexpected or provocative events. This expression is commonly used in personal relationships, such as during arguments, conflicts, or when confronted with betrayal or deception.

What is the origin of the idiom "hit the roof" and when to use it?

to [hit] the (roof|ceiling)

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaGl0IHRoZSByb29m&hash=9b32a1a4195cff70e82a3c9b9416ec12a3e7afd7&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "a window to the world" likely originated from the literal meaning of a window as an opening in a wall that allows you to see outside. It has been used metaphorically to describe various means of gaining insight, knowledge, or a broader perspective on the world. This expression is used to refer to something that provides you with a view, insight, or understanding of the world at large. It can describe a physical window with a scenic view, but it is often used in a broader sense to talk about sources of information, experiences, or opportunities that broaden one's horizons.

What is the origin of the idiom "a window to the world" and when to use it?

a window (to|into|on|onto) the world

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=YSB3aW5kb3cgdG8gdGhlIHdvcmxk&hash=4dc9ec33691653cb37b5ec5dee024ff74478cabb&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "go out the window" likely originated from the idea of something being thrown or discarded out of a window. It signifies the abandonment or disregard of a particular idea, plan, rule, or principle. In a figurative sense, it is used to suggest that something has been relinquished, forgotten, or no longer applies in a given situation, often due to changing circumstances or priorities.

What is the origin of the idiom "go out the window" and when to use it?

to [go] out the (of|) window

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ28gb3V0IHRoZSBvZiB3aW5kb3c&hash=6e8e47f87c86dbc011f643b652a519de08aabfd1&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "hold the floor" originated from parliamentary proceedings, where a speaker is granted the right to address an assembly or group without interruption. In this context, holding the floor means maintaining the right to speak continuously. Beyond formal settings, the phrase is commonly used in everyday language to indicate that someone has control of the conversation or is the primary speaker, often commanding attention and preventing others from interrupting.

What is the origin of the idiom "hold the floor" and when to use it?

to [hold] the floor

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gaG9sZCB0aGUgZmxvb3I&hash=0a76ee0e80c2886cddd651afcfb42dac8aaa8839&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "wipe the floor with someone" is believed to have originated from the practice of cleaning a floor by wiping it with a mop or cloth. The action of wiping the floor clean suggests a thorough and complete victory, leaving no trace of the opponent's presence or challenge. This idiom is often used to describe a situation where one person or team defeats another in a competition, argument, or conflict, with great ease and skill, leaving the opponent humiliated or embarrassed.

What is the origin of the idiom "wipe the floor with someone" and when to use it?

to [wipe] the floor with {sb}

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gd2lwZSB0aGUgZmxvb3Igd2l0aCBzb21lYm9keQ&hash=3c403142acc483820d0eb2c89fc5f5046db04e2c&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "take the floor" originates from dance traditions and specifically refers to the act of stepping onto the dance floor to begin dancing. It has been commonly used in dance and social contexts, particularly during events where dancing is a central activity.

What is the origin of the idiom "take the floor" and when to use it?

to [take] the floor

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gdGFrZSB0aGUgZmxvb3I&hash=27815865ce4c5b45d4855fe035809d8835aba18a&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of this phrase is thought to come from the world of theater. In the early days of theater, the buildings were often poorly constructed and had weak foundations. When the audience became very excited and started to stomp their feet, clap their hands, or otherwise show their appreciation for the performance, it would sometimes cause the building to shake and the ceiling to collapse, hence "bringing the house down". It is used to describe a situation where a performer or entertainer is extremely successful and receives a lot of applause or cheers from the audience.

What is the origin of the idiom "bring the house down" and when to use it?

to [bring] the house down

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gYnJpbmcgdGhlIGhvdXNlIGRvd24&hash=26f59d7cb0c3d7be82e2e427c026ad876a6939ef&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

on the house

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=b24gdGhlIGhvdXNl&hash=e839eba0eac4793829a7e9bc6f3f9fe4934d4fd8&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "Put one's house in order" is originated from the Bible, specifically in the book of Isaiah. The phrase is used to mean the need to organize or improve one's affairs, often in a personal or private context. It can be used in various situations, such as when an individual needs to make important decisions, establish priorities, or take care of unfinished business.

What is the origin of the idiom "put one's house in order" and when to use it?

[put|get|set] {one's} house in order

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=cHV0IG9uZSdzIGhvdXNlIGluIG9yZGVy&hash=01d8e31f0a2e2b1df0a8d222fd3b930c05f807b2&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The origin of the idiom "like a house on fire" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States, possibly in the early 20th century. The phrase is mainly used to describe a relationship, interaction, or activity that is happening quickly, enthusiastically, or with great intensity. In other words, it suggests a sense of rapid and positive progress, often used to emphasize the speed and enthusiasm with which something is happening or developing.

What is the origin of the idiom "like a house on fire" and when to use it?

like a house on fire

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=bGlrZSBhIGhvdXNlIG9uIGZpcmU&hash=6cff4fb4717326f5c5354af729d3a5d138e56e08&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to [lay|provide] the [foundation] for {sth}

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gbGF5IHRoZSBmb3VuZGF0aW9uIGZvciBzb21ldGhpbmc&hash=cfbd7fe4d240b897449ad849ad723fd16789b1bf&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

to go around

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ28gYXJvdW5k&hash=c2e6158d70f4f7193ba78b3ff2e726dcb53f4557&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "go through the floor" is an idiomatic expression that is used to signify a sharp and sudden decrease or decline in something, typically used in the context of prices, values, or performance. Its origin is rooted in the idea of something figuratively falling through the floor or plummeting, much like an object falling to a lower level, representing a substantial drop or decline in a particular aspect.

What is the origin of the idiom "go through the floor" and when to use it?

to [go] through the floor

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=dG8gZ28gdGhyb3VnaCB0aGUgZmxvb3I&hash=522008f896765e71d466f340385f20fccb6a33a4&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

The idiom "in on the ground floor" originated in the world of real estate and construction. It originally referred to being involved in a project or venture from its initial stages, particularly when a building was being constructed, and had a literal connotation of starting from the first floor of a building, which is the ground floor. Over time, it evolved into a figurative expression, denoting the opportunity to participate in or witness the early development of a venture, idea, or trend, with the implication that those involved from the outset have a potential advantage.

What is the origin of the idiom "in on the ground floor" and when to use it?

in on the ground floor

https://tts.langeek.co/read?text=aW4gb24gdGhlIGdyb3VuZCBmbG9vcg&hash=ee388fa92e89c82df086888b0b338b64e56893c9&lang=en&cache-only=0&driver=googletts&accent=US

Here you will find the vocabulary from Unit 7 - 7D in the Insight Advanced coursebook, such as "flamboyance", "hold the floor", "gleaming", etc.

Insight Advanced "Unité 7 - 7D" Vocabulaire