常见的英语短语有哪些(英语短语整理)
What are Common English Phrases?
English is a fascinating language with a variety of different phrases and expressions. These phrases are commonly used to convey a specific meaning or emotion and are often used in everyday conversation. Here are some of the most common phrases in English:
1. "Break a leg"
This is a common phrase used to wish someone good luck. It's often used before a performance, like a play or a musical. It's thought to have originated from the belief that if you wished someone good luck, it would bring bad luck. So instead of saying "good luck," people started saying "break a leg" as a way to reverse the bad luck and actually bring good luck.
2. "Costs an arm and a leg"
This phrase is used to describe something that is very expensive. It's thought to have originated from the practice of charging people for portraits based on the number of body parts that were included in the painting. The more body parts, the more expensive the portrait would be. So if you had your portrait done and it included your arms and legs, it would cost you a lot of money!
3. "A piece of cake"
This phrase is used to describe something that is very easy to do. It's thought to have originated from the idea of cake being a simple and enjoyable thing to eat. So, if something is as easy as eating a piece of cake, it must be very easy indeed!
4. "Bite the bullet"
This phrase is used to describe a situation where you have to face something difficult or unpleasant, usually with bravery. It's thought to have originated from the time when soldiers had to bite on a bullet during medical procedures to help them endure the pain. Today, we use it to describe situations where we need to be brave and face things head-on.
5. "On the ball"
This phrase is used to describe someone who is very alert and aware, especially when it comes to their job or responsibilities. It's thought to have originated from sports, specifically soccer. The ball is the most important thing on the field, so if you're "on the ball," you're paying very close attention to what's going on around you.
6. "Spill the beans"
This phrase is used to describe someone who has revealed a secret or important information that was supposed to be kept confidential. It's thought to have originated from ancient Greece, where beans were used to cast votes. If someone accidentally spilled the beans, the vote could be compromised and the secret would be out!
Conclusion
English is full of fascinating phrases like these. Learning these phrases can help you better understand and communicate with native English speakers, as they are an important part of the language. So, the next time someone tells you to "break a leg," you'll know exactly what they mean!
