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fun way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by
Canadians.
Achilles heel
This saying comes from the Greek myth Troy. The all-powerful warrior Achilles had one weak spot, his
heel. When an arrow hit Achilles in his heel, he died from it. Today, it means a fatal weakness that a
person has, regardless of how powerful he or she is.
Across the board
When something applies to everyone equally. For example, when theres a pay raise that increase wages
for everyone by 10 per cent its happening across the board.
Actions speak louder than words
In other words, what a person actually does is more important than what they say they will do.
Adams apple
An Adams apple is the bump on a mans neck that sticks out and is something girls dont have. Its
named after the Biblical story of forbidden fruit apple, of course that got stuck in Adams throat after
Eve gave it to him in the Garden of Eden.
Add insult to injury
When a bad situation is made even worse, it adding insult to injury. An example would be when
someone loses their job and then his or her car runs out of gas when driving home, making a bad
situation even worse.
All hell breaks loose
When someone isnt calling you back, your computer isnt working and you need to file a story on
deadline, its safe to say that all just hell broke loose.
All in a days work
Doing all the tasks associated with a job, even if they are complicated and detailed, are considered being
all in a days work when youve completed them.
American dream
The American dream is the reason why so many immigrants come to North America. The United States
especially prides itself as a democratic place where people have the right to good education, freedom,
peace and a rich life if they work for it.
An elephant never forgets
This phrase describes someone who doesnt forget anything, despite how long ago something happened.
The phrase comes from researchers who discovered that elephants always follow the same path to their
burial place, even passing on directions to younger generations.
Apple of ones eye
When someone is truly precious and dear to you, he or she is the apple of your eye.
Armed to the teeth
In a movie, for example, when an actor is carrying lots of knives, guns and other weaponry on his or her
persons, its safe to say he or she is armed to the teeth.
A leopard cant change its spots
This phrase could be used to describe someone who cant change their nature. A leopard cant change
its spots could be used to describe a co-worker whos always been mean and wont change.
A little bird told me
When you know a secret, but dont want to say who told you that secret, youd use the clich a little bird
told me to protect the source.
A picture paints a thousand words
This idiom describes how much one picture can capture the details of a moment in time more than words
ever can.
ASAP
You might hear someone spell out the letters A-S-A-P, or even sound out the acronym as if it were a real
word (asap). Either way, it simply means that whatever that person is talking about, they want it as
soon as possible.
As snug as a bug in a rug
On a cold winter day, youre inside in front of the fire, curled up with a nice mug of hot chocolate and a
warm blanket youre as snug as a bug in a rug.
At deaths door
When someone is old and sick for a long time, youd describe him or her as being close to dying or at
deaths door.
At ones beck and call
To be at someones beck and call is to be entirely subservient to them; to be responsive to their slightest
request.
If youre picking up groceries and doing your girlfriends dishes whenever she asks you, youre at her
beck and call.
At the eleventh hour
Handing in assignments at the last minute means youre handing them in at the eleventh hour.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick,
fun way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by
Canadians.
Bargain hunter
Do you love a good sale? When you enter a store, do you head right to the Clearance rack? Then
youre probably a bargain hunter someone who likes to find a good deal.
Back to square one (or back to the drawing board)
Other options have failed you, and you need to take a new approach, you can say that youre back to
square one or back to the drawing board, where youll start all over again from the beginning.
Bad hair day
Youve woken up and your hair looks frightful even though youve struggled with it in the bathroom for half
an hour, its safe to say that youre having a bad hair day.
Bark up the wrong tree
If you just made fun of a police officer by shouting at him, youre barking up the wrong tree. Hell
probably come after you with sirens blaring its not a good idea.
Beat around the bush
If youve spilled spaghetti sauce on your moms favourite white blouse, you know youre in trouble. To
avoid this, you may compliment her on the way she looks or discuss how the weather is so nice, before
you finally tell her what you did. Thatd be beating around the bush.
Beauty and the beast
When you may see a pretty girl with a not-so-good-looking guy, you could describe them as beauty and
the beast match. Its not a nice thing to say out loud.
Below the belt
Has a co-worker insulted you by mentioning a personal flaw? Did he do it in front of your colleagues and
that insult was especially uncalled for and inappropriate? Its below the belt.
Bend over backward
If youre driving halfway across the city to pick up a friend late at night when you were sleeping, youre
probably bending over backward for him or her. Youre not physically bending backwards, but youre
really going out of your way for someone.
Between a rock and a hard place
When you have to choose between being fired or being transferred to another city or province, youre
facing a really tough decision. If both outcomes put you in a potentially lose-lose situation, it means youre
between a rock and a hard place.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Canuck
The term Canuck is first recorded about 1835 as an Americanism, originally referring specifically to a
French Canadian. Today, Canuck now refers to any Canadian. And, of course, the Vancouver NHL hockey
team.
Catch-22
A Catch-22 is a paradox that is impossible to find a solution or answer to. This saying is based on the
book of the same name by Joseph Heller, which was written in 1953. Catch-22 is about U.S. Air Force
fighters who didnt want to fly into dangerous bombing missions, yet the only way to be exempt of this
duty was to be dismissed on grounds of insanity. Hence, a fighter would have to be either crazy or
willing to dieplacing them in a Catch-22 situation.
Catch some Zs
Feeling tired? You may want to go to bed, take a nap or catch some Zs. Sleeping is definitely involved
in all.
Cheesed off
If a telemarketer calls you for the 10th time in a day, youre probably really mad about it, or cheesed
off. Its a non-profane phrase for expressing your annoyance.
Chill out
When someone is too angry, it is time for them to chill out, or calm down.
Chip in
To chip in means to help someone out. If someone doesnt have enough cash to pay for lunch, you
might chip in an extra few dollars to cover the bill.
Click
Unlike in the United States, where distance is measured in miles, Canadians go metric and use
kilometres, which they casually call clicks.
Clutch at straws
When your relationship has been bad for five long years, and you still have hope itll improve, it means
youre clutching at straws. Its when you hope for the best in a situation that is sliding through your
fingers and will end poorly.
Cold feet
If youve been planning to go skydiving for the first time, and you freeze up when youre at the edge of
the planes door, it means you just got cold feet. Its when you get scared enough that you cant go
through with something like skydiving or a wedding.
Cold shoulder
Did you have an argument with someone and they havent gotten over it? Are they not speaking to you
and ignoring you? Youre being given the cold shoulder.
Cold turkey
If youve decided to quit smoking where you used to smoke a dozen cigarettes a day, youll want to quit
by smoking less and less cigarettes over a period of time instead of trying to quit all at once in one day,
going cold turkey.
Cry wolf
This saying comes from the childhood story The Boy Who Cried Wolf. The little boy in the story kept
falsely warning his neighbours that there was a wolf trying to eat their sheep, when there really wasnt.
One day when there actually was a wolf, the little boy tried to truly warned them, but his neighbours
didnt believe him, only to be shocked finding all their sheep gone. Crying wolf means to give false
warning.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Dead as a doornail
There is no clear or logical explanation as to why a doornail is used to denote the concept of death. One
guess is that a door-fastener a beam of wood used across the inside of a door as a lock it is also
called a nail and it resembles a corpse, which could be why dead as a doornail is used to describe a
person or animal who is really dead.
Devils advocate
Originated in the Roman Catholic Church, this term was given to the official who argued against the
proposed beatification of a dead person in order to generate debate. If you are part of a conversation,
the person who mentions an opposing view without really believing in it, is playing devils advocate.
Dont be a Scrooge
Charles Dickens famous A Christmas Carol character Ebenezer Scrooge was a miserable soul who
repeatedly yelled, Bah! Humbug, when faced with Christmas joy. If someone tells you not to be
Scrooge-like, youre probably being a little grouchy yourself.
Draw a blank
Failing to remember something means youre drawing a blank. When you look for your keys and you
cannot find them, youre drawing a blank as to where they could possibly be.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Eagle-eyed
According to experts, eagles have better eyesight than all other birds. Eagles see better than even
humans. Thus if a person is referred to being eagle-eyed, it means he or she has excellent sight.
Egg on
Derived from an ancient Scandinavian word, this phrase has nothing to do with eggs. It actually means
to incite or urge people to perform an action. If your friend is usually bothering you to exercise, for
example, then it means she is egging you on to get into shape.
Eh
Canadians are known worldwide for tacking on the word eh to sentences, turning them into a bit of a
question for example, That was a good hockey game last night, eh?
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Fat cat
Wealthy, privileged people are often referred to by the slang term fat cats.
Fair game
In a fair game its okay to attack or ridicule someone if you have good reason for doing so; or at
least when you do, you can use the excuse that your actions are due to the situation being fair game.
Feeding frenzy
Originally, a feeding frenzy referred to the intense eating habits of sharks. Normally, this phrase refers
to a frantic activity by a group, such as when dogs attack their lunch.
Field day
After all the work youve been doing this year in school, you probably deserve a field day, or a day that
is exciting, fun and free. It also means youre really enjoying yourself, having a field day of fun.
Fingers crossed
Keeping your fingers crossed means that you are hoping for good luck or a happy outcome in a
situation.
Final straw (or last straw)
After a series of bad things happen to you, the final straw (no matter how big or small) is used to
describe the thing or event that will finally bring you down or make everything collapse badly.
Fit as a fiddle
A fiddle is a colloquial word that means violin. Probably, because this instrument is a product of skilled
craftsmanship, it is good to be fit as a fiddle that is to be very healthy.
Flea market
At a flea market or outdoor shopping bazaar, you can find plenty of cheap articles, antiques and
secondhand goods being sold by individual vendors.
Flying saucer
A flying saucer is a disc-shaped flying object some people claim to have seen thats believed to carry
aliens. In 1947, an American pilot reported seeing several of these flying objects, and journalists
introduced this term as a result.
Fools gold
Pyrite was called fools gold because it was mistaken with gold during the Klondike Gold Rush in the
Yukon, but its actually worthless. Fools gold is another way of saying fake wealth.
Fools paradise
You are in fools paradise when you feel delusionally happy but its a state that is based on false
beliefs.
Forbidden fruit
Originally, the first forbidden fruit was noted in the bible. In the Book of Genesis, the apple that God
forbade the first humans, Adam and Eve, to eat symbolizes human disobedience. Eve fed the apple to
Adam, and God cast them out of the Garden of Eden (paradise) as a result. Today the phrase is used
when referring to something that is tempting yet completely prohibited.
Foregone conclusion
A foregone conclusion refers to a result or outcome that is inevitable. For example, No matter what
Republican critics said, Obama winning the presidential election was a foregone conclusion.
Fork up
If someone hasnt given you the money he or she owes you, youll be tempted to say, Fork up the
money you owe me!
Forty winks
With the insane workload you have, and all the tasks to complete, even if you really need to get a bit of
sleep, there is only time for forty winks. That is, forty winks means to take a very short nap.
Freak out
To scare someone is to freak them out; to be scared is to be freaked out. For example: That
teenager freaked out his mother with his green spiked hair and five earrings. Someone who is very
excited or angry is freaking out all over the place.
Friendly fire
This expression has been used since the Vietnam War and it means to be under fire (or to be shot at
accidentally) from ones own forces.
FYI
For your information, FYI means just that for your information.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Game plan
When you have a game plan, you have a plan of action and a strategy to achieve something you want.
Go AWOL
AWOL stands for absent without leave; it is pronounced as a word, ay-wol, and it means to leave
without explanation or permission.
Going postal
This expression means extremely hostile or disgruntled behaviour, possibly violent. It developed out of
several real-life incidents of postal workers in North America going insane and shooting fellow co-
workers.
Go haywire
Every time someone goes haywire, he or she is going crazy or acting erratically.
Good Samaritan
Based on a biblical story in which a man from Samaria rescues a Jewish man, a good Samaritan refers
to someone who helps people in distress without wanting or expecting any payment in return.
Goody two-shoes
A goody two-shoes is someone who is self-righteous and uncommonly well behaved.
Grab a bite
If someone asks you to grab a bite, theyre not asking you to resort to cannibalism. Youre being asked
to go out to a restaurant for something to eat.
Greek to me
Something that is Greek to you is unintelligible you cant understand it. Comes from Cascas comment
in Shakespeares Julius Caesar: But, for my own part, it was Greek to me.
Green-eyed monster
Originally coined by Shakespeare in Othello, the phrase green-eyed monster is a euphemism for
jealousy.
Grinch
If someone is a grinch, he or she has no sense of fun or enjoyment. This person is cranky and unfriendly,
and tries to ruin other peoples merriment. This comes from a story by the famous childrens author Dr.
Seuss. His book, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, is very popular with children and adults alike around
the world.
Grind to a halt
Parliament ended or ground to a halt when it was prorogued in December to avoid a no-confidence
vote.
Guinea-pig
This rodent has been used in scientific research for many decades. Thus, if you are called a guinea-pig
it means youre taking part, often unwittingly, in some type of testing or experiment.
Gung-ho
Originally adopted as a motto by a U.S. soldier during World War II, this slang term now means to be
exCanadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick,
fun way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by
Canadians.
Hair-raising
Watching a horror movie in the dark can be really scary, or hair-raising.
Hang it up
You can hang up more than a phone call. You can use the expression hang it up when talking about
quitting a job, hobby or habit, i.e., Im going to hang up my writing career.
Hang loose
In other words, just relax. There is also hang loose hand gesture that is commonly associated with
Hawaii and surfers.
Hang tough
Another expression with the word hang, hang tough means to stick with something. Dont quit
hang tough on your decision to quit smoking.
Hanky-panky
Hanky-panky is anything sexual that can happen between couples. Just make sure that when engaging
in hanky-panky, youre not in public!
Harsh my mellow
This slang term may even be unfamiliar to people born in Canada, but its easy enough to figure out
when used in context, e.g., I was relaxing by the lake, but the loud barking dog harshed my mellow.
Hatchet job
When married politicians have affairs, usually mistresses do a hatchet job on their reputation; in other
words, they commit a ruthless attack on their reputation.
Head honcho
The boss, the leader, the supervisor, the big guy. Whoever is in charge is the head honcho.
Highball
An alcoholic mixed drink in which a spirit like whiskey is mixed with a mixer, like Coke.
Hit and run
A hit-and-run accident is when the driver of a car leaves the scene of the accident without waiting for
the police and ambulance to show up.
Hocus-pocus
This meaningless Latin phrase was used my magicians during their performances. Today, it is used to
denote nonsense or trickery.
Home stretch
If youre in the home stretch, its a baseball term that means youre near the finish line, or end of your
task.
Hoser
Calling someone a hoser is really just calling them a loser, a term made famous by those classic
Canadian television brothers Bob and Doug McKenzie (check out the movie Strange Brew). In the old
days, the term referred to the team that lost the hockey game and would have to hose down the rink.
Hotheaded
A hotheaded person makes hasty decisions based on anger and overreaction. You might hear a hockey
player who picks too many fights being called a hothead.
tremely enthusiastic.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. From A to Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Ignorance is bliss
Written by English poet Thomas Gray, this proverb means that sometimes it is better to not know
certain things, as ignorance is bliss.
Im all ears
Theres something to be said for good listening skills. You could say that youre all ears.
Im stuffed
When youve had a lot to eat and are too full to eat any more, you might say Im stuffed. What is the
Christmas connection? Turkeys that are a traditional part of many Canadian Christmas dinners are often
filled with a mixture of bread and other flavourings, which is known as stuffing.
In the hole
If you owe money, you are in the hole. Or lets say a charity held a concert, but ticket sales were so
low and expenses were high and they went in the hole $1,000. Well, do some advertising and better luck
next time!
In a nutshell
When you say something in a nutshell, it means that you are saying it in a conclusive and concise way.
In a pickle
Whenever you find yourself in a pickle, it means that you are in trouble or in a difficult situation.
In cold blood
The murderer killed her in cold blood, meaning he did it without any emotional remorse and/or in a
brutal, harsh way.
In limbo
After applying for permanent residence, you might be in limbo for a few years as you wait for a
response.
In the doghouse
The last thing you want when starting a new job is to be in the doghouse in other words, to be in
disgrace and in trouble after making a mistake.
In the limelight
Being in the limelight can make you feel good. When you are the center of attention, you have to be
careful with your actions as people will be paying you lots of attention.
Iron fist
The president rules the nation with an iron fist, which means hes very stern and hard on his people.
Irregardless
You may hear people say this word in casual conversation, irregardless of the fact that its not actually
considered to be a real word. The ir and less also make it a double negative. Simply use regardless
instead.
Its not over until the fat lady sings
The opera is not over until the fat lady sings or so the saying goes. In daily use, this phrase connotes
that when someone is losing a competition, they still may have a chance of winning.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
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KD
A Canadian standard for kids and university students, KD, otherwise known as Kraft Dinner or mac
and cheese, is an instant macaroni and cheese product that sells for about $1 a box.
Keep at bay
If there are people who want to hurt you, it is recommendable that you keep them at bay or at a safe
distance away from you.
Keep mum
If someone tells you a secret, you have to keep mum or stay quiet about it. Otherwise, if you share the
secret with someone else, you will get into trouble.
Kick back
Want to kick back this summer? We all need a little rest from time to time. Relax!
Kiss of death
In the Bible, Judas gives a kiss to Jesus that is the cause of his arrest and execution. Thus, a kiss of
death is something that will cause a persons downfall.
Laissez-faire
This political and economic term is an economic doctrine that moves against government intervention
and regulation and supports the free enterprise of businesses and corporations.
Last-ditch effort
Despite last-ditch efforts to avoid a citywide strike, city workers didnt accept the offers from the
government.
Leave in a lurch
To leave in a lurch means to leave in desperate times and let someone down, such as the bride who
was left in a lurch when her groom failed to show up at the altar.
Long shot
Obtaining a senior position with only five years of experience is a long shot, meaning the probability of
it happening is quite small.
Loonie/Toonie
Unlike many other countries, Canada has its own nicknames for its money. The Loonie is a $1 coin
(which usually features the image of a loon), while a Toonie is the term used for the $2 coin (because
it rhymes with Loonie).
Loose cannon
A loose cannon is a person who is out of control. For example, There was a loose cannon in the party
and security had to kick him out he was attacking people!
Love is blind
When you dont see your loved ones faults, you could say love is blind. In Shakespeares The Merchant
of Venice, Jessica, disguised as a boy, says: But love is blind and lovers cannot see the pretty follies that
themselves commit. For if they could, Cupid himself would blush to see me thus transformed to a boy.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Mad as a hatter
This simile became famous after the publication of the classic childrens book Alice in Wonderland. It
comes from the fact that people who made hats in the past acted very strangely since they were in
contact with mercury, a poisonous material that affected their sanity. So, if someone tells you that you
are mad as a hatter, then it means they think you are acting crazy.
Mickey
Nothing to do with Disney, a mickey is a 13-ounce bottle of liquor like rum, vodka or whiskey.
Moment of truth
A moment of truth is a crucial and decisive moment when the final result or truth comes out. This
phrase originates from the moment in a bullfight when the bull is killed.
Mounties
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) members are informally called Mounties.
Money talks
When a wealthy person receives better treatment than a poor person, people say that money talks.
Mouse potato
Slang for a person who spends a great deal of time using a computer, playing off the older term couch
potato, for people who spend hours sitting on the couch watching TV.
Mud-slinging
During an election campaign, one candidate making damaging statements about another candidate is
mud-slinging. It might not be real mud, but it can do real damage.
Mumbo-jumbo
Taken from the Mandinka language in West Africa, this phrase refers to incomprehensible language and
behaviour based on superstition. Originally, it was the name of an idol worshipped by some tribes.
Today, in common vernacular it means language that makes no sense at all.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
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This term comes from horse racing where the necks of two horses are really close and the outcome of
the competition is hard to see. For example, The two performances were brilliant. The competitors
were really neck and neck.
The phrase neck of the woods is slang for a specific neighborhood or area where people live and are
common with.
Needle in a haystack
To find a thin needle in a haystack is almost an impossible task. Thus, anything that seems impossible
to find is lost like a needle in a haystack.
Nickname
A shortened, familiar or affectionate name for a person is a nickname. Christinas nickname is Tina;
Matthews is Matt. Sometimes family or friends use a descriptive nickname like Shorty for a short
person. Many newcomers choose nicknames after immigrating if their given names are difficult for
others to say.
In gardening, if you want to control the growth of a plant, you can check it by nipping off its buds. If you
nip something in the bud, then you are trying to stop it at an early stage, such as a problem, while it is
still small and controllable.
No-mans land
This was a military term used to denote an unoccupied strip of land between two forces that are battling
each other. Now, it denotes an ambiguous, deadly or remote area where you dont want to find
yourself.
It is believed that when you dont get any information at all, then at least nothing bad has happened.
No news is good news is similar to Plutarchs phrase, Bad news travels fast.
No strings attached
Having no strings attached means that you dont have to make compromises or are tied to any
obligations in a situation.
A grindstone a revolving stone disc thats used for sharpening tools was used on the nose as a form
of punishment in ancient times. Now, keeping your nose to the grindstone means that you work very
hard, which sometimes can feel a little bit like self-punishment!
This sarcastic expression is used when you want someone to realize that there is a hidden reference in
something you just said. I really want to go to that event, but no one wants to come with me nudge,
nudge, wink, wink. Its when youre overtly hinting at something you want made understood.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
An old wives tale is a superstitious medical belief not based on scientific fact that is passed on by
word of mouth, such as that chocolate causes acne or that eating carrots can improve your vision.
Olive branch
The olive branch is a very ancient symbol of peace. Thus, if you got mad at someone, you should offer an
olive branch to show you are ready to solve the problem and find peace.
On-again, off-again
A couple who keeps breaking up and then getting back together is called on-again, off-again. Better be
cautious if that business deal you really want is on-again, off-again.
On a shoestring
When you are unemployed, you try to do everything on a shoestring, in other words, on very little
money.
To do something on a wing and a prayer means you are hopeful you will succeed at something, even
though you have a very slim chance that you will.
On cloud nine
When she got her citizenship, she was on cloud nine. That is, she was really happy and excited about
it.
On ones high horse
This means to be arrogant, as in Every time we talk about art, he gets on his high horse and says that
you can only find real art in Europe.
This summer, I traveled around the world and it was amazing. It was really a once-in-a-blue-moon
experience.
My best friend always tells me everything. She knows my lips are sealed. That is, you will keep a
secret and will never tell.
When your name is in the mud, it means that your reputation has been compromised and you are a
disgrace.
Ones number is up
If someones number is up, it means that they are going to die or they are about to face the
consequences of their actions. For example, When she got violently ill, she thought her number was up
and she was going to die.
Whenever you do something that really reveals your true self, you are showing your true colours.
On the ball
When a football player has the ball and is ready to score for certain, it is said that hes on the ball.
Thus, when you are on the ball, you are alert and have things under control.
On the nail
Paying on the nail means that you are giving over the cash immediately.
If someone tells you youre on the naughty list, the person is alluding to the Christmas legend that
Santa Claus makes a list of all children to see whos naughty or nice. Those listed under nice deserve
presents; those on the naughty side do not.
Open sesame
In the classic tale Arabian Nights, the character Ali Baba used this magical command to enter to a cave.
Now, it is used to denote a successful way of achieving or opening something. Sesame, by the way, was
the name of a magic spirit in the story.
If you dont sleep at all the night before, then you will be out for the count the next day. It means that
youre out of it.
Being thrown out of the frying pan and into the fire means that even though you have found your way
out of one problem, youve now found yourself in even bigger trouble.
To be out of the running means that you are no longer in the race that is, you are no longer able to
compete or take part in something.
Out on a limb
When you are out on a limb, you are either in a very vulnerable position or taking a chance on
something.
To be over the top means that you are doing something that is excessive or arrogant.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Penny pincher
Some people may call you cheap or a penny pincher, but theres nothing wrong with being frugal with
your spending, especially in times of recession. Every penny counts.
After working long hours, youre ready to go out, have fun, and paint the town red. This means that
you are going to really enjoy a night of entertainment and debauchery consequences be damned!
Pandoras box
In Greek legend, Zeus created Pandora to bring calamity to men. Thus, when you open up Pandoras
box, it means that youve opened up a whole world of problems and issues in a situation. Youll want to
avoid doing this!
When you are done with a relationship, it means its time to part ways with the other person. For
example, After a huge fight, Jason and Marisol reached a parting of the ways.
Parting shot
A parting shot is the last thing you say after an argument or the final action you take in a situation. For
example, Before leaving, she said, as a parting shot, Dont ever talk to me again.
When you pass the torch, you are giving up a responsibility to someone else. For instance, if someone
in a senior position is retiring, then he is passing the torch to someone else who will take over his tasks
and responsibilities.
Pearly gates
Peeping Tom
A peeping Tom is a person who gets pleasure from secretly watching people. It was coined after Lady
Godiva, the wife of one of the most powerful men in England, rode naked through London so that he
would decrease taxes for the people. The people of the town stayed indoors to not offend her, but a
fellow called Tom couldnt help but peep out at her.
Pig out
What do you like to pig out on? Ice cream, fried chicken, pizza? Whatever it is, youre eating too much
if youre eating like a pig.
Play by ear
This saying literally refers to playing music without using written notation. But if someone says, Im
going to play it by ear when talking about plans, it means the person will deal with things as they
happen in an impromptu manner.
Playing hookie
Hookie isnt some obscure Canadian sport you havent yet heard of; playing hookie means to skip a
class or not go into work.
Play possum
An opossum is an animal that plays dead when caught or threatened by a predator. Thus, to play
possum means that you are pretending to be dead or asleep to avoid a person or situation.
In an orchestra, the second fiddle plays music that is less prominent than the first fiddles harmony.
Thus, playing second fiddle means to take on a subordinate role.
Politically correct
This term aims to challenge vocabulary that implies a prejudice, especially in matters concerning race,
gender and sexual orientation. Terms like Native American, little person, and physically challenged are
politically correct; that is, respectful and acceptable to the person or group being described by the term.
Poker face
A person with a poker face doesnt show any emotion and keeps others wondering. An expert poker
player will keep an expressionless face to confuse opponents.
Someone so publicly connected to a cause that he or she becomes a symbol for the cause. Usually the
person is famous first, then they become a spokesperson for the cause. Posters, billboards or other ads
may carry their picture in connection with the cause.
A person who criticizes another for a fault they have themselves only worse is a pot calling the
kettle black. The pot is blacker than the kettle.
Prima donna
In Italian, a prima donna is the principal female singer in an opera. Since they were prone to creating
dramas, a woman who has a temperamental nature is considered a prima donna.
The pros and cons are the reasons for and against something. For instance, before making a decision,
it is recommendable to analyze the pros and cons of the situation carefully.
When someone pulls your leg, then he or she is teasing you or playing a joke on you. Pull ones weight
To fight global warming, we all need to pull our own weight, in other words, we all need to do our
part.
Put a sock in it
If someone tells you to put a sock in it, then he o she is using this euphemism to say shut up! in a
slightly nicer way. Put on ones thinking cap When you put on your thinking cap, then you are
seriously reflecting on a problem or issue.
Putting away some nuts away to eat during the cold, winter months, as squirrels are apt to do, is a
metaphor for saving some money for hard financial times.
This summer, many people put traveling on the back burner because of the recession and the swine
flu.
Pylons
The term is commonly referred to as an electricity/transmission tower, but in Canada, the word pylon
is also used to describe those little orange cones, which are often used to reroute traffic in construction
zones or as goalposts in a soccer game.
Quit it!
This expression is often used when trying to stop someones annoying action. A mother telling her
children to stop fighting may say, Will you just quit it? or Stop it! or Cut it out!
R and R
This autumn, you may be in need of a little R and R or rest and relaxation.
Red tape
This term refers to governmental bureaucracy and official processes that are time-consuming and
complex. For instance, When you move to another country, you may face a lot of red tape when
applying for citizenship.
Right-hand man
A right-hand man (or right-hand woman) is someone who you find personally helpful and reliable.
Ring a bell
Do you know John Smith? The name rings a bell, but Im not sure. When something rings a bell, it
reminds you of something, but not well enough that you know exactly what it is youre trying to
remember.
Robin Hood
Robin Hood was an English outlaw famous for stealing from the rich and giving that wealth the poor.
Thus, a Robin Hood is someone who defends the poor and gives to them.
ROI
The ROI, or return on investment or sometimes just return, is the ratio of money gained or lost on
an investment or project relative to the amount of money initially put into it. If you have a great idea
you want to implement in your organization, you may need to prove whether it will have a good ROI.
Rug rats
This term doesnt refer to a rodent attracted to your carpet. Its an affectionate term for small children.
Rule of thumb
A rule of thumb is a general guideline that is not strictly accurate and is usually based on experience. A
rule of thumb in writing, for instance, is to always proofread what you write.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
Sadder but wiser
This clich expresses knowledge that was acquired after something sad or bad has happened to you.
Such as in, Sadder but wiser, she will never trust someones words without a written agreement.
Sands of time
This phrase comes from the ancient measurement of time with the use of an hourglasses, and it refers
to the passing of time.
Schlepping
To schlep is to move slowly or carry something clumsily; for example, I schlepped my hairdryer over
from India to Canada only to discover there are different-sized electrical outlets here.
Scot-free
To be scot-free is to be free from obligation or penalty in a situation. For example, He got away scot-
free, while all of us had to clean up after the party all night long.
Seal of approval
The council gave the communitys action plan its seal of approval. In other words, it means endorsing
something.
So what?
So what? is a rude reply to information offered, which means Who cares? or What is left to talk
about? It usually means the discussion is over or one party wants it to be over.
Scrooge
A scrooge is someone who is mean and miserly. This word comes from the name of a character in one of
the most well-known stories in English. Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol tells the story of Ebenezer
Scrooge, a mean and greedy man who was more concerned about money than about people. This story
has continuously been in print since it was first published in 1843. It has been made into movies plays,
and operas, and has been retold in countless ways.
Seventh heaven
The immigrant who hit the jackpot and won the lottery was in seventh heaven. It means to be
extremely happy and euphoric.
Shell-shocked
Literally, this is a medical condition suffered by people who have been under fire in a war situation. It
can also be used to describe a person who has been affected negatively by a shocking or distressing
situation.
Slush fund
A slush fund is a money account that is secret and used for corrupt purposes, such as bribery.
Smart Alec
This term originated from Alec Hoag, a thief who operated in 1840s New York and never got caught.
Thus, a smart Alec is a conceited person who likes to show off their conniving ways.
Smell a rat
When you feel that something is not good, then you can say that you smell a rat. For instance, She
told me that she will read my application, but I smell a rat I dont think she will, as I sense shes lying.
Sneakers
No, not someone who sneaks up on you, but a term used to describe running shoes.
Son of a gun
This phrase is used to express disbelief or disappointment. It is a euphemism for son of a bitch.
Soul patch
A newish term for a small growth of beard under a mans lower lip. Sort of the opposite of a Fu Manchu
moustache.
Squeaky clean
A squeaky-clean person is someone who doesnt have any defects, or who has no criminal records, or
it can even mean someone who is always well-groomed.
String along
To follow someone or something, but not intending to follow through with it means you are stringing
along. For example, She decided to string along with them and go to the fundraising event, even
though she wasnt going to do any work when she got there.
Third degree
A third degree is an intense act of torture or interrogation used to obtain information or a confession.
For example, He confessed after the police gave him the third degree. Today, it means a slightly less
violent way of getting information out of someone, simply by questioning them intensely.
The game is up
This expression uses the word up as over. It means that something has come to an end. For
example, I realized the game was up when he started packing to leave.
The jig is up
When a deceitful scheme is exposed, then the jig is up. In other words, the secret is out.
The three Rs
The three Rs are: reading, writing, and arithmetic (or rithmetic, as it were). It describes the basic skills
of the elementary school program in North America, but ironically, it is obvious that two of the words do
not begin with an R. This phrase can also stand for reduce, reuse, and recycle as well.
Third world
This phrase is used to refer to the worlds poor and underdeveloped countries. However, now is more
suitable to call them developing or underdeveloped countries, which is more politically correct.
Thorn in ones side
A thorn in ones side is something that keeps troubling or annoying someone. For example, The
hungry dog that keeps barking at her every day for more food is a thorn in Annas side.
Tongue-lashing
You could say the prime minister recently received a tongue-lashing from the Opposition for not doing
enough for Canadians regarding the economic downturn.
Top brass
The top brass are the most important people in an organization, such as chief executive officers and
presidents.
Touch wood
Based on a superstition that knocking on or touching wood would keep the evil spirits away, this phrase
is used to avert bad luck or misfortune. Often, youll see a Canadian say touch wood, then actually find
a nearby wood object to knock on, such as a door.
Trojan horse
According to Virgils Aeneid, during the war between Greece and Troy, the Greek gained entrance to
Troy by hiding inside a big wooden horse. This phrase is now used to denote a subversive group or a
danger that attacks from within.
Trump card
When playing games, a card in the trump suit is reserved for winning. Thus, a trump card is something
that gives one person a winning advantage over his or her opponent.
Tuque
A woollen knitted hat that is common for most Canadians to wear in winter, thanks to the cold climate.
Two-faced
Beware of two-faced people. They can say they care for you, yet at the same time they could be saying
bad things behind your back.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.
A walk in the park refers to a task or activity that is easy and straightforward.
Something or someone who warms the cockles of your heart makes you happy.
If you dont waste things, you will always have enough of what you need at a later time.
Water Under the Bridge
Water under the bridge means putting an event or matter in the past. It is no longer important or
troublesome.
Wet blanket
Just like a wet blanket can extinguish a fire a person who is a wet blanket can have a depressing effect
on others and lower enthusiasm.
White lie
Traditionally, white is associated with purity. Thus, a white lie is a false statement used to avoid
hurting someones feelings.
Canadian Immigrants CanSpeak section helps you learn English phrases, slang and clichs in a quick, fun
way. To get started, simply click on one of the letters to pull up a words and their definitions. From A to
Z, youll find many of the most common and popular turns of phrase used by Canadians.