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Street Talk 3 /

Lesson 7

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1-
the blind leading the blind
2-
to dice with death
3-
to hold one's breath
4-
easy does it
5-
to get one's feet wet
6-
to get the hang of something
7-
nerve
8-
second wind
the blind leading the blind
the blind leading the blind
phrase
uk flag
/ðə blˈaɪnd lˈiːdɪŋ ðə blˈaɪnd/
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Idiom
Informal
Old use

used to describe a situation in which an incompetent or inexperienced person is advising others who have no knowledge or experience at all

example
Example
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It's like the blind leading the blind in that department.
I can't believe they put a recent graduate in charge of the project.
What is the origin of the idiom "the blind leading the blind" and when to use it?

The idiom "the blind leading the blind" has its origins in the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 15:14): "Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit." This biblical metaphor reflects the idea of someone who lacks knowledge or understanding trying to lead or guide others who are equally lacking in those qualities. This expression is used to describe a situation in which an uninformed or inexperienced person is attempting to guide or advise others who are similarly uninformed or inexperienced. It implies that none of them possess the necessary knowledge or expertise, and the outcome is likely to be disastrous or ineffective.

to dice with death
phrase
uk flag
/dˈaɪs wɪð dˈɛθ/
Idiom
Informal

to take great risks that could result in one's own death

What is the origin of the idiom "dice with death" and when to use it?

The idiom "dice with death" has its origins in gambling terminology and has been figuratively used for centuries to describe a situation where someone is taking a significant risk, often involving potential harm or danger to their life.

to [hold] {one's} breath
to hold one's breath
phrase
uk flag
/hˈoʊld wˈʌnz bɹˈɛθ/
Idiom

to wait for something anxiously or eagerly

What is the origin of the idiom "hold one's breath" and when to use it?

The idiom "hold one's breath" originated from the literal act of voluntarily or involuntarily stopping one's breathing. The expression has been used since ancient times and has its roots in the physical response to moments of tension, suspense, or anticipation. In such situations, individuals often hold their breath as a reflexive response. It is employed to describe the act of waiting anxiously or with great anticipation for a specific outcome, event, or result.

easy does it
sentence
uk flag
/ˈiːzi dˈʌz ɪt/
Idiom
Informal

used to advise someone to proceed with caution or be careful with something

What is the origin of the idiom "easy does it" and when to use it?

The idiom "easy does it" is believed to have originated as an informal way of advising caution or a gradual, gentle approach to a task. It is commonly used to encourage someone to proceed slowly and carefully, particularly in situations where haste or recklessness may lead to negative outcomes.

to [get] {one's} feet wet
to get one's feet wet
phrase
uk flag
/ɡɛt wˈʌnz fˈiːt wˈɛt/

to do something that one has not done before in order to become more experienced or familiar with it

to [get] the hang of {sth}
to get the hang of something
phrase
uk flag
/ɡɛt ðə hˈæŋ ʌv ˌɛstˌiːˈeɪtʃ/
Idiom
Informal

to learn how something works or how to use it

What is the origin of the idiom "get the hang of something" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "get the hang of something" is unclear, but it likely evolved from the idea of learning or mastering a skill or activity to the point where one can perform it with ease. The word "hang" in this context may refer to the way an action or skill is suspended or performed.This expression is commonly used to describe the process of becoming proficient or skilled at something after practice or experience. It implies that initially, the task or skill may have been challenging or unfamiliar, but with time and effort, one has acquired the necessary knowledge and ability to do it well.

nerve
noun
n
n
e
ɜ
r
r
v
v
e

the ability to face difficult or challenging situations with determination and resolve

second wind
noun
uk flag
/sˈɛkənd wˈɪnd/
Idiom
Informal

the renewal of one's energy or endurance that allows one to continue or start over a physical exertion

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

The idiom "second wind" originates from the world of sports and physical activity. It describes the phenomenon where, after a period of strenuous exertion or fatigue, an individual suddenly experiences a renewed burst of energy, allowing them to continue or start over with a newfound courage. This sensation is similar to having a "second chance" at performing well, as if a new gust of energy has taken over. The phrase has since been used to refer to a renewal of one's courage or energy.

Grammatical Information:

compound noun

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You learned 8 words from Lesson 7. To improve learning and review vocabulary, start practicing.

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