More Slang

Talk nineteen to the dozen: talk incessantly; talk too fast.

e.g. You were talking nineteen to the dozen; I just couldn't make hear or tail of what you were saying.

Gumption: common sense.

e.g. If you've some gumption, you 'll understand the difference between this and that.

Have a load on: very drunk.

e.g. He looked as if he had a load on.

Not born yesterday: not as naive or foolish as you think.

e.g. Don't give me all that nonsense. I was not born yesterday.

Hell-bent on: very determined.

e.g. The team is hell-bent on winning the game tonight.

Right you are: I agree.

e.g. "I think I'm going to accept this job." "Right you are."

All at sea: confused.

e.g. "What do you think of the proposal?" "I'm all at sea; I'm completely clueless."

Get cold feet: become anxious and fearful.

e.g. He got cold feet, and left without taking the challenge.

All hot and bothered: agitated, confused, or excited.

e.g. She was all hot and bothered when she heard the news of their divorce.

Poorly: sick or unwell.

e.g. What's the matter with you today? I say, you look poorly!

Saw you coming: realized your ignorance.

e.g. You gave him the money right away without asking any question; he saw you coming!

Pooped: exhausted.

e.g. I was pooped after working for nine hours in the yard.

Say one's piece: say what one ought to say.

e.g. I must say my piece: that was not a nice thing to say to your parents.

Fork out: pay

e.g. Well, everybody has to fork out $30 for the farewell present to the boss.

Stephen Lau

Copyright© by Stephen Lau