English Phrases and Their Meanings

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Questions and Answers

What does the phrase 'keep a story going' imply about storytelling?

It implies maintaining the audience's interest throughout the narrative.

How might someone feel after they said 'How embarrassing!'?

They might feel ashamed or self-conscious due to a public mistake.

What situation might cause someone to shout 'at the top of my voice'?

They would shout to ensure they are heard over loud noise.

In what context might one say they were 'looked at in a rather strange way'?

It can occur when someone's behavior is perceived as unusual or awkward. Signup and view all the answers

What might the term 'swollen up' describe regarding an injury?

It describes an area, like an ankle, that has increased in size due to trauma. Signup and view all the answers

What does being 'covered in blotches' usually indicate?

It usually indicates a skin condition or allergic reaction affecting appearance. Signup and view all the answers

What could 'an allergic reaction' imply about one's health?

It implies a negative response of the immune system to certain substances. Signup and view all the answers

What circumstances might lead someone to say they 'got stuck in a lift'?

This situation typically occurs when the elevator malfunctions. Signup and view all the answers

What might cause someone to 'miss a flight'?

Traffic congestion or unexpected delays can lead to missed flights. Signup and view all the answers

What phrase describes a total disarray typically encountered in a kitchen post-dinner party?

A complete mess Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean when someone's popularity 'soared'?

It means their popularity significantly increased. Signup and view all the answers

In a competition, what term refers to an event ending with no winner?

Draw Signup and view all the answers

In what context might you engage in 'small talk'?

Before a meeting or event to break the ice. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of an intermediary in negotiations?

To help with the negotiations Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'work against the clock' imply?

It implies working under tight deadlines. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'not everyone's cup of tea' suggest?

It suggests that something may not appeal to everyone. Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase emphasizes overcoming obstacles for personal progress?

Will stop barriers Signup and view all the answers

What type of evidence did the detective uncover at the crime scene?

Thumbprints Signup and view all the answers

Why might something be 'close to one's heart'?

It indicates a deep emotional significance or personal value. Signup and view all the answers

What situation does the phrase 'in hot water' describe?

It describes being in trouble or facing difficulties. Signup and view all the answers

Which security measure utilizes unique patterns in the eyes for access control?

Retina scans Signup and view all the answers

What phrase denotes the simplest route to a destination?

The most straightforward way Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to 'put one's foot in it'?

It means to make a careless mistake or embarrassment. Signup and view all the answers

How has online shopping affected the method of delivery?

Changed the method of delivery Signup and view all the answers

What does 'running out of time' indicate in a project context?

It indicates there is insufficient time left to complete the task. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of pioneers and key players in driving innovation in the virtual reality technology industry?

They lead advancements and contribute to transformative changes. Signup and view all the answers

In what way has e-shopping become increasingly popular in recent years?

It offers convenience and a wide variety of options for consumers. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'revolutionary impact' imply about new technology and society?

It suggests that new technology fundamentally alters societal norms and functions. Signup and view all the answers

How do successes and innovations set a company apart from its competitors in the tech industry?

They establish a distinctive brand reputation and enhance market competitiveness. Signup and view all the answers

What new evidence might an investigation reveal in a case concerning environmental crises?

It could uncover hidden data or previous mismanagement of resources. Signup and view all the answers

What characteristics make someone a best-known internet pioneer?

Contributions to foundational technologies and widespread influence in digital culture. Signup and view all the answers

Why is logging on to the internet essential for modern communication?

It allows users to access emails and connect with others globally. Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of journalists in investigating political stories?

They inform the public by uncovering facts and holding power accountable. Signup and view all the answers

What is a docudrama and how does it differ from a pure documentary?

A docudrama is a blend of documentary and drama, often dramatizing real events while incorporating interviews or factual details. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of a genre that often includes magic and mythical creatures, and explain its appeal.

Fantasy fiction is an example where magic and mythical creatures are prevalent, appealing to readers' imagination and desire for escapism. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the characteristics of a psychological thriller.

A psychological thriller typically involves suspense, tension, and a deep exploration of the characters' mental states. Signup and view all the answers

What elements might one expect in a romantic comedy?

A romantic comedy usually features humorous situations revolving around love and relationships, often with a happy ending. Signup and view all the answers

In what way can a film be categorized as a biopic?

A biopic is categorized as a film that dramatizes the life of a real person, depicting significant events from their life story. Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone choose to watch a period drama?

Someone might choose a period drama for its rich historical context, costumes, and storytelling that reflect a specific time and culture. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of adventure films and why are they appealing?

Adventure films often highlight thrilling journeys or quests, appealing to viewers' sense of exploration and excitement. Signup and view all the answers

Define 'imaginary' and provide an example of its usage in context.

'Imaginary' refers to something that exists only in the mind; for example, children create vivid imaginary worlds during play. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Phrases and Their Meanings

Keep a story going: Phrase used to maintain the audience's interest in storytelling.
What did you do?: Common inquiry about someone's actions that caused a particular emotion or situation.
How embarrassing!: Expression of discomfort or shame, often used in situations of social faux pas.
At the top of my voice: Phrase indicating speaking loudly to be heard over background noise.
Look at me in a rather strange way: Pointing to someone's unusual or uncomfortable gaze.

Vocabulary

Swollen up: Describes a part of the body that has become larger than normal, often due to injury.
Covered in blotches: Refers to skin showing irregular spots, often from an allergic reaction.
An allergic reaction: Body's negative response to certain substances, like food or environmental factors.
Got stuck in a lift: Indicates being trapped in an elevator for a period of time until help arrives.
Missed a flight: Indicates failing to board a scheduled airplane, often due to unforeseen circumstances.

Conditions and Situations

A complete mess: Describing a chaotic or untidy situation, particularly after an event.
Match: Refers to a sports game or a compatible pair in various contexts.
An intermediary: A person or entity facilitating negotiation or interaction between two parties.
Her determination will stop barriers: Emphasizes perseverance in overcoming obstacles.

Technology and Delivery Methods

Thumbprints: Fingerprint patterns used for identification, particularly in criminal investigations.
Retina scans: Biometric access control method involving scanning the unique patterns in the retina.
The most straightforward way: Describes the simplest and most direct approach to reach a destination.
On demand: Refers to services or products available whenever the customer requires them.

General Expressions

Method of delivery: Refers to how goods or services are provided to consumers, especially in the context of e-commerce.
Physicists: Scientists who study the fundamental laws of nature, focusing on matter and energy.
Popularity: Refers to the level of public interest and recognition, especially after events like album releases.
Small talk: Casual conversation, often used to fill time before more serious discussions.

Challenges and Requests

Work against the clock: Indicating urgency and pressure to complete tasks within a limited timeframe.
Running out of time: Conveys a sense of urgency, suggesting there is not enough time left.
Keep an eye on him: Requesting to monitor someone’s actions or behaviors.

Innovation and Knowledge

Opens up new realms of knowledge: The idea that new technologies can lead to discovering previously unexplored areas of understanding.
Pioneers and key players: Individuals or companies that lead innovation and advancements in their fields.

Entertainment Genres

Biopic: A film that dramatizes the life story of a real person.
Docudrama: A genre combining documentary and dramatic elements.
Romantic comedy: A film genre focusing on humor and love stories.
Fantasy fiction: Genre that involves magical elements and imaginary worlds.
Psychological thriller: A suspenseful film focused on psychological emotions and motivations.

Miscellaneous

Imaginary: Describing something that exists only in one's mind.
Disaster: A catastrophic event causing significant disruption or damage.

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Description

This quiz focuses on common English phrases and their usage, specifically designed for language learners. Participants will explore phrases, their meanings in Chinese, and how to effectively use them in conversation.