An idiom is a combination of words that have a symbolic meaning. Understanding and using idioms is tricky because an idiom’s meaning is different from that of the words that comprise it. We know it’s hard, but we’re here to help!
所謂俚語就是把幾個詞組到一起擁有一個象征性的意義。理解和應用俚語是比較微妙的,因為俚語的意義遠非簡單的幾個詞意義的中和。我們知道這很難,但是我們愿意給大家提供幫助。
Alright, lets begin with “dog-eat-dog”.
This expression refers to a place or situation that is highly competitive. In a dog-eat-dog world, people will do whatever it takes to be successful, even if that means harming others.
這個俚語表示某個地方或形勢非常有競爭性。在一個人吃人的世界,人們為了成功會不惜一切代價,即使是傷害別人也在所不辭。
Here’s an example: “The music industry is dog-eat-dog; one day you’re on top and the next, everyone forgot you!”
舉個例子:“音樂界向來是人吃人的世界;今天你還站在最高點,而明天可能所有人就都忘記了你!”
What about “cat got your tongue?”
This question is used when someone is at a loss of words or being unusually quiet. If someone asks you if the cat has got your tongue, it means you seem to be speechless and can’t think of something to say.
如果某人問你if the cat has got your tongue, 那么它表示你(因驚訝、尷尬而)一時失語,不知說什么好。
Why won’t you answer my question? Has the cat got your tongue?
你為何不回答我的問題? 你成了啞巴了嗎 ?
What’s the matter Lucy, cat got your tongue?
路西你怎么了,舌頭被貓抓住了嗎?(怎么沒話了)