Random Thoughts 34

Colloquial Expressions[1]

Run around like a chicken with its head chopped off.

We use this to describe a situation in which things are hectic[2] and you are forced to hurry about with barely time to think about what you are doing.

Tie the knot

To tie the knot means to get married. Example: Jim and Sue finally tied the knot after being engaged for more than a year.

Keep a stiff upper lip

This has traditionally been used to describe an attitude of British people in remaining resolute[3] and unemotional when face with adversity[4].

Tuckered out

This means to be exhausted, very tired. Example: I’m all tuckered out from doing spring cleaning.

Spring fever[5]

This describes a feeling of restlessness and excitement felt at the beginning of spring.

Put [one’s] foot in [one’s] mouth

This means to say something foolish, embarrassing, or tactless[6]. Example: Charlie put his foot in his mouth when he called his wife by his old girlfriend’s name.

Flog [beat] a dead horse[7]

This means a particular effort is a waste of time as there will be no outcome. Example: Asking the boss for a raise is like beating a dead horse.

Get under [one’s] skin[8]

This is used to describe something that is very annoying and irritating. Example: Her constant complaining about my poor driving really gets under my skin.

[1] Expressions used in ordinary conversation that are not formal or literary

[2] 慌ただしい

[3] 断固

[4] 逆境

[5] 春先のもの憂さ[落ち着かない気分]

[6] へまな、不精巧

[7] 無駄な事をする

[8] 何かにイライラさせられる