Are you confused when you hear Americans say things like “I’ll catch you on the flip side” or “That’s a piece of cake”? You’re not alone. American English is full of phrases and idioms that can confuse non-native speakers. To help you understand better and avoid confusion, we have listed and explained 15 American phrases that often baffle foreigners.
“Break a Leg”
One of the most commonly heard phrases in American English, “break a leg,” is often used to wish someone good luck. But why would anyone say that? The origin of this phrase is unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in the theater world, where saying “good luck” was considered bad luck. So instead, performers and crew members started wishing each other to “break a leg” to bring about good luck.
“Bite off More Than You Can Chew”
This phrase means to take on more than one can handle or manage. It’s often used as a warning not to overextend oneself. The origins of this phrase are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated from the literal act of taking on too much food at once and struggling to chew it all.
“Keep Your Eyes Peeled”
To be vigilant and attentive is the essence of this expression, often used to advise someone to be prepared or cautious. This phrase may puzzle foreigners, as the word peel often suggests pulling back or taking off an outer layer, like peeling the skin on a fruit.
“Raining Cats and Dogs”
This phrase is often used to describe a heavy or intense rainstorm. It may surprise foreigners, especially if no cats or dogs appear to be falling from the sky.
“Easy Peasy”
This phrase may sound like gibberish to non-native speakers, but it means something is effortless. It’s often used in a lighthearted or playful manner.
“Hit the Nail on the Head”
To “hit the nail on the head” means getting something correct or accurate. This phrase has its roots in carpentry, where hitting a nail directly and firmly on its head ensures it goes straight into the wood.
“Let Sleeping Dogs Lie”
Used to warn against stirring up old problems or issues, this phrase may confuse non-native speakers who take it literally. It means to avoid bringing up past grievances or conflicts.
“Take It With a Grain of Salt”
This phrase means not to take something too seriously or literally. It’s often used when someone shares information that may be exaggerated or unreliable. Foreigners may find this expression odd since it makes no sense to pick up a single grain of salt over a discussed matter.
“Don’t Cry Over Spilled Milk”
This phrase tells someone not to dwell on past mistakes or misfortunes. It may confuse non-native speakers, suggesting crying over something easily cleaned up.
“An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away”
This popular health saying suggests that eating nutritious food can help prevent illness. It may confuse foreigners, as it’s meant to be taken figuratively rather than literally.
“Don’t Judge a Book by Its Cover”
Although this phrase is a great tip when choosing a book to read, it is often used when advising a person not to make hasty judgments based on appearances. This could be perplexing for individuals from other countries, especially when books are not part of the equation.
“The Early Bird Gets the Worm”
This proverb means that those who act early have a better chance of success. Foreigners might find it puzzling when this phrase is used in a context that does not relate to any avian species.
“A Penny Saved Is a Penny Earned”
This famous financial saying advises saving money rather than spending it frivolously. It may confuse non-native speakers who may wonder why a penny would be worth saving, as the use of “penny” is not common in most countries.
“Spill the Beans”
This phrase means to reveal secret or confidential information. It could be confusing to non-native speakers who might wonder why anyone would want to spill beans on purpose and how it could possibly relate to divulging one’s secrets.
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