Understanding Idioms in English

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz

Study Flashcards

Spaced Repetition

Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Download our mobile app to listen on the go

Get App

Questions and Answers

What does the idiom ‘to bury your head in the sand’ imply?

To ignore a problem hoping it will go away (correct)
To seek help for a problem
To face problems directly
To find a solution to a problem

Ostriches are commonly known to bury their heads in the sand when threatened.

False (B)

Who was Pliny the Elder?

A Roman naturalist

Ostriches are the __________ creatures on two legs.

<p>fastest</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following facts about ostriches:

<p>Speed = Fastest creatures on two legs Defense Mechanism = Run or fight instead of hiding Myth Origin = Pliny the Elder's writings Actual Behavior = No head burying</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards are hidden until you start studying

Study Notes

Idiom Meaning

"To bury your head in the sand" indicates avoiding or ignoring a problem, with the hope it will resolve itself.

Origin of the Saying

The idiom is based on ostrich behavior, suggesting they hide their heads in the sand to escape danger.
The concept is rooted in a misunderstanding of actual ostrich behavior.

Historical Reference

Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist, wrote about ostriches around 2000 years ago.
He suggested that ostriches believed that by hiding their head and neck in bushes, their entire body was concealed.

Ostrich Behavior

Ostriches do not traditionally bury their heads in the sand.
They are known for their speed as the fastest bipedal creatures.
Their legs possess strength capable of delivering a lethal kick to predators, including lions, suggesting they prefer to run or confront threats rather than hide.