Unità 7 - 7D

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.