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Technically, that could be a psychopath.

Psychology Today:

The psychopath can appear normal, even charming. Underneath, they lack
conscience and empathy, making them manipulative, volatile and often
(but by no means always) criminal.

This article illustrates things to a degree:

As I wrote in a recent article on Gizmodo (link is external), when I
first met tech guru John McAfee I was utterly charmed. He seemed to be
living his life with a clarity and moral courage that I found
exhilarating. The first article I wrote about him was effusive, and
when I traveled to Belize to meet up with him for a second article, I
looked forward to spending time with someone who I felt to be both
intellectually and physically adventurous. On this second trip,
however, I began to notice a troubling pattern. McAfee spent a lot of
his time bragging about the hoaxes he’d pulled off, gleefully styling
himself as a “bullshit artist.” Sometimes he lied for fun—like when he
told a reporter that his tattoo was a Maori design he’d gotten in New
Zealand, a country he’s never actually been to. Sometimes he lied
strategically, like the Facebook posting he put up about how he’d just
bought a house in Honduras. At the time, he was facing a raft of
lawsuits. «The judge in one case couldn’t understand why I would put
incorrect information about myself on the web,» he told me. «I said,
‘I thought that if somebody wanted to serve me papers, it would be
much more enjoyable for everyone involved if they tried to serve those
papers to me in Honduras.'»

After I wrote an unflattering article about him, a number of people
from McAfee’s past reached out to me and told me even more troubling
stories. I became convinced that McAfee was not merely a disingenuous
person but a true psychopath.

Schouten says that we should not be surprised to find psychopaths
among the ranks of successful entrepreneurs like McAfee. Indeed, he
emphasizes that psychopathic traits can be positively helpful.
“Psychopathy could confer a competitive advantage, at least over the
short term,” he says. “Grandiosity and over-the-top self-confidence,
as well as skill at conning and manipulating, can go a long way toward
convincing investors of one’s vision.”

Источник

На основании Вашего запроса эти примеры могут содержать грубую лексику.

На основании Вашего запроса эти примеры могут содержать разговорную лексику.

Lean remanufacturing means doing things faster by increasing efficiency in operations.

Бережливое восстановление означает более быстрое выполнение операций за счет повышения эффективности операций.

This means doing things like breaking it down to the titles of the smallest areas in the region.

Sometimes, growing up means Doing things that you don’t want to.

That means doing things like the following

They can also act on impulse — this means doing things without thinking about them first.

Они также могут действовать под влиянием импульса, т.е. сначала делать вещи, а только потом думать о том, что сделали.

You’re the one who said being in a relationship means doing things together that you can’t do alone.

Ведь ты сам говорил, отношения — это вместе делать то, что не можешь сделать один.

But we’re a couple, aren’t we, and sometimes that means doing things for the benefit of the other.

It just means doing things right, and it’s a bad sign when you have a special word for that.

Оно означает правильное положение вещей, поэтому плохо, когда для него придумывается специальное слово.

It often means doing things which are least natural for us to do.

This sometimes means doing things you don’t like to do right now, but you realize that they’ll lead to a long-term happiness.

Minor simplifications are not worth a disaster; harmonization is a misguided goal if it means doing things wrong everywhere.

Незначительные упрощения не стоят катастрофы; гармонизация- неверная цель, если это означает, что дела везде пойдут плохо.

This sliding, means doing things like entering the market on a ‘whim’ when no real setup is present or doubling up risk because they want to ‘make back’ the money they just lost.

Это «послабление» означает совершать такие огрехи, как эмоциональный вход в рынок, когда нет никаких реальных торговых установок, или удвоение своего риска, потому что вы хотите вернуть свои деньги, которые только что потеряли.

Being brave doesn’t mean not being scared, it means doing things even when you’re scared.

Being efficient means doing things right.

Innovation means doing things differently.

Другие результаты

By modern building design we mean doing things more simply, quickly, cleanly, safely, offering plenty of ideas.

Под современным основана в 1945 году, подразумеваем делать вещи более просто, быстро, чисто, безопасно, предлагая множество идей.

That would mean doing things with brute force and trickery.

Значит, их надо добывать грубой силой и хитростью.

We need to be respected because the way we communicate might mean doing things and acting in ways that might not seem to be related to communication.

Нам надо, чтобы к нам проявляли уважение, потому что наш способ коммуникации может включать в себя такие действия и такое поведение, которое на первый взгляд не имеет ничего общего с общением.

Reducing our «ecological footprint» would mean doing things like using less water to wash dishes, showering only once a week and not flushing the toilet.

Уменьшение нашего «экологического следа» будет означать, что мы станем использовать меньше воды для мытья посуды, принимать душ только раз в неделю и не смывать за собой в туалете.

Vertical or intensive progress means doing new things — going from 0 to 1.

Вертикальный, или интенсивный, прогресс означает создание новых сущностей — то есть переход от нуля к единице.

Ничего не найдено для этого значения.

Результатов: 5187. Точных совпадений: 15. Затраченное время: 648 мс

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Корректор

Справка и о нас

Индекс слова: 1-300, 301-600, 601-900

Индекс выражения: 1-400, 401-800, 801-1200

Индекс фразы: 1-400, 401-800, 801-1200

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Я хочу быть хорошей женой, заботиться о тебе и надеюсь.

You

should not count on somebody else to do things for you,

you

have to make sure that

you

bring in your contribution as well.

Не надо рассчитывать, что кто-то что-то сделает за тебя, нужно самому стараться внести свой вклад в свою культуру и традиции.

Hdi also had another, more common word

for

love, dva,

В Хеди также есть другое слово, обозначающее любовь,- dva,- любовь,

Look, Mindy, I was wrong when I said

you

wait around

for

guys to do things for you, but I think

you

are waiting

for

one guy, and I think I met him last night.

Послушай, Минди, я ошибся, когда сказал, что

ты

сидишь и ждешь парней, которые все сделают за тебя, но я думаю

ты

ждешь одного парня, и мне кажется я познакомился с ним вчера.

Автоматика повышает уровень и благоустроенность Вашей жизни делая множество обычных действий за Вас.

You

should not count on somebody else to

things for

you,

you have to make sure that

you

bring in your contribution as well.

Into your tradition and culture.

Не надо рассчитывать, что кто-то что-то сделает за тебя, нужно самому стараться внести свой вклад в свою культуру и традиции.

This isn’t one of those Columbo-like

things

where you keep me doing things

for you,

hoping I will slip up?

Это ведь не в духе детектива Коломбо, когда вы заставляете меня делать разные вещи и ждете, когда я совершу ошибку?

You

can’t coerce people into doing things

for

you-you can’t make them vote for

you.

Так и не говорите, что то, что вы делаете,

вы делаете

для народа: это неправда.

Results: 8541,
Time: 0.2387

English
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Russian

Russian
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English

Источник

Sometimes, it’s good to use words that have a meaning close to what we’re trying to convey, but it’s difficult to come up with the right term. In this article, we’re looking at words we can use to call someone who loves to try new things. There are plenty out there, so let’s jump in.

What Do You Call Someone Who Loves To Try New Things?

Someone who loves to try new things is most commonly referred to as adventurous. There are plenty of words out there that can apply, like “uninhibited,” “venturesome,” “neophile,” or “audacious.” “Adventurous” is the closest related word meaning loving to try new things, though.

The meaning of “adventurous,” according to The Cambridge Dictionary, is “willing to try new or difficult things.” This applies most obviously to somebody who loves to try new things.

The words we’ll cover in this article are:

Adventurous
Uninhibited
Venturesome
Neophile
Audacious

Adventurous

We’ll start by looking at the best word used to describe someone who loves to try new things.

We’ve all heard about adventures before. They’re things that people go on to explore new places or new ideas that allow them to open up their worldview a little beyond their original scope.

Calling someone “adventurous” means that they’re always happy and willing to try new things. Often, the things that they’re willing to try are difficult or scary to the general population.

Let’s go over some examples of how we can use adventurous. It’s an adjective, so we’re going to use it mostly to describe the person:

He is so adventurous, and he’s willing to try just about anything.
I’ve never seen such an adventurous person eat so many new things!
You’re so adventurous. I wish I had your attitude to new things!
You love change, don’t you? That’s what makes you so adventurous.

Uninhibited

The next word we want to look at is “uninhibited,” which means that someone doesn’t have any inhibitions.

Inhibitions are something that most people have that stop them from doing things that either scare them or make them uncomfortable.

Being “uninhibited” means that someone doesn’t have the usual inhibitions you’d expect. They’re capable of trying new things, often things that other people might look down on or be too afraid to try for themselves.

According to The Cambridge Dictionary, “uninhibited” means “free and natural, without embarrassment or too much control.” It can apply to plenty of ideas in life and is a great thing to try and achieve for yourself.

You are so uninhibited. I wish I could be as bold as you!
She’s uninhibited and willing to try all sorts of things.
What is it that makes you feel uninhibited when everyone else is embarrassed?
I’m uninhibited and always looking for a new challenge to entertain myself.

Venturesome

The next word is similar in many ways to “adventurous.” It’s another adjective that’s closely linked to a life of adventure.

Venturesome is an adjective used to describe someone who looks to take risks. Usually, they won’t worry about the impact of those risks until after they’ve taken them, making them more than willing to try new things.

According to The Cambridge Dictionary, “venturesome” is “used to describe a person who is willing to take risks.”

A venturesome person generally leads a very pleasing and content life. When you’re constantly trying things to excite you, regardless of risk, you’re opening yourself up to a lifetime of happiness, finding new things that you might not have realized you would enjoy if you didn’t try.

He is such a venturesome man; I wish I were more like him.
You’re far too venturesome for me to keep up!
I’m the venturesome one of this relationship, and she keeps me grounded.
We love the venturesome lifestyle that we lead.

Neophile

Next, we have something known as “neophilia.” If a person has this phenomenon, it means they are a “neophile” and a lover of change.

A neophile is somebody who loves change. The “-phile” portion of the words is the opposite to “phobia” and means you love something. In this case, “neo-” means change, making “change” the thing that people love.

Change in this context is applied when we’re talking about trying new things. Many people are against trying new things, no matter how exciting they may be, simply because they don’t like change.

It’s the aim of the neophile to eradicate these thought processes and focus solely on enjoying themselves and welcoming any new changes that might present themselves as they go through life.

I consider myself to be a neophile. I’ll try something new every weekend.
I love to change up my routine; they say I’m quite the neophile.
He’s a neophile and always has to be kept on his toes.
I don’t understand why you have to be such a neophile! What’s wrong with a standard routine?

Audacious

Finally, we’ll look at audacious as a word used to describe someone willing to try new things.

“Audacious” is perhaps the furthest away from the original meaning. It still works well, but it’s much more specific and should only be used in particular contexts.

Audacious means that somebody is willing to take risks, even if those risks offend people. It’s usually related to what people say rather than what they do. If you’re happy offending people living your own life, then you may just be audacious.

According to The Cambridge Dictionary, “audacious” means “showing a willingness to take risks or offend people.”

We can apply this to a few situations, but in every case, it’s usually seen as more of a negative thing if someone is known as “audacious.” It mostly refers to what people say and the opinions they have, though it can extend out to what people do as well.

I’m audacious, and I apologize now if I offend you.
He’s really audacious, and I don’t think I can be around him when he goes against the grain all the time!
You’re too audacious for my liking!
Wow, I’ve never met someone as audacious as you are! You must be proud!

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here.

Источник

Словосочетания

an elusive concept that means many things to many people — расплывчатая концепция, которую каждый понимает по-своему
it means that — это значит, что
by this means — таким образом
by this we mean — под этим мы понимаем
by this is meant — под этим подразумевается
it is mean of him — это подло с его стороны
it is mean / base — подло
what does it mean? — что это значит?
what this means is — это означает, что
this word means… — это слово значит…

this word means … — это слово значит …
what does all this mean? — что всё это значит?
explain to me what this means — объясните мне, что это значит
it will mean a lot of expense — это повлечёт за собой большие расходы
it doesn’t mean a thing to me — я не вижу в этом никакого смысла, мне это кажется совершенной бессмыслицей
it means a tremendous lot to me — это чрезвычайно важно для меня
what in the world does it mean? — что это наконец значит?
this does not necessarily mean that — это не обязательно означает, что
in words of one syllable it means … — проще говоря, это значит …
this means a serious draft on industry — для этого требуется высокоразвитая промышленность
concretely, this meant that he was broke — (если говорить) точнее, то это означало, что он был сломан
take it from me that he means what he says — поверьте мне, к тому, что он говорит, надо отнестись серьёзно
this was meant as a draw but he didn’t rise to it — это было провокацией, но он не поддался на неё; его пытались спровоцировать, но он не клюнул на приманку
you may take it from me that he means what he says — поверьте мне, к тому, что он говорит, надо отнестись серьёзно
it’s a tremendous thing for me, it means a tremendous lot to me — это чрезвычайно важно для меня

ещё 15 примеров свернуть

Автоматический перевод

те средства

Перевод по словам

that — что, чтобы, который, то, тот, та, так, до такой степени
mean — средний, серединный, скупой, среднее, среднее значение, означать, значить

Примеры

I can support a cause that means something to me.

Я могу оказать помощь делу, которое для меня что-то значит.

‘Vater’ is the German word for (=word that means) ‘father’.

«Vater» — это по-немецки (т.е. слово, которое по-немецки означает) «отец».

That means we’re home free. *

Это значит, что успех нам обеспечен.

It means a great deal to him.

Для него это очень много значит.

Loosely translated this means…

В вольном переводе это означает…

What, precisely, does that mean?

Что именно это значит?

I supposed it was meant to be so.

Я предположил, что так и было задумано.

ещё 23 примера свернуть

Примеры, отмеченные *, могут содержать сленг и разговорные фразы.

Примеры, ожидающие перевода

If that means delaying the trip, so be it.

That didn’t come out the way I meant it to.

‘That’s not exactly what it means.’ ‘Pedant.’

It meant nothing to her, smiling at her reflection in the mirror.

«It means ‘aunt’ and is a title or honorific, like when he calls you ‘mister.’

Just because you’re older than me, it doesn’t mean you can tell me what to do.

I thought he was joking when he said he might quit, but it turned out that he really meant it.

Для того чтобы добавить вариант перевода, кликните по иконке ☰, напротив примера.

Источник

thing

(thĭng)

a. An object or entity that is not or cannot be named specifically: What is this thing for?

b. An individual object, especially an inanimate object: There wasn’t a thing in sight.

c. A creature: That baby is the sweetest thing!

d. An entity or item: How many things are there on the test?

e. Something referred to by a word, symbol, sign, or idea; a referent.

2. A possession or item in one’s control, as:

a. things Articles of clothing: Put on your things and let’s go.

b. things Possessions, including clothing; belongings: Pack your things; it’s time to go.

c. often things Law That which can be possessed or owned: things personal; things real.

d. things The equipment needed for an activity or a special purpose.

a. An act, deed, or work: promised to do great things.

b. The result of work or activity: is always building things.

c. A means to an end: just the thing to increase sales.

a. A thought, notion, or utterance: What a rotten thing to say!

b. A piece of information: wouldn’t tell me a thing about the project.

5. An end or objective: In blackjack, the thing is to get nearest to 21 without going over.

a. A matter of concern: many things on my mind.

b. A turn of events; a circumstance: The accident was a terrible thing.

c. A particular state of affairs; a situation: Let’s deal with this thing promptly.

d. things The general state of affairs; conditions: «Beneath the smooth surface of things, something was wrong» (Tom Wicker).

e. Informal The latest fad or fashion: Drag racing was the thing then.

7. Informal A persistent feeling, interest, desire, or aversion: She has a thing for him and keeps talking about him. I have a thing about seafood and never eat it.

8. Slang An activity uniquely suitable and satisfying to one: Let him do his own thing. Mountain climbing is really my thing.

9. Informal Used to refer to something with disapproval or contempt: Where did you get that thing? I wouldn’t drive that thing if you paid me.

Idioms:

first thing Informal

Right away; before anything else: Do your assignments first thing in the morning.

see/hear things

To have hallucinations.

[Middle English, from Old English.]

American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

thing

(θɪŋ)

1. an object, fact, affair, circumstance, or concept considered as being a separate entity

2. any inanimate object

3. an object or entity that cannot or need not be precisely named

4. informal a person or animal regarded as the object of pity, contempt, etc: you poor thing.

5. an event or act

6. a thought or statement

7. (Law) law any object or right that may be the subject of property (as distinguished from a person)

8. a device, means, or instrument

9. (often plural) a possession, article of clothing, etc

10. informal the normal pattern of behaviour in a particular context: not interested in the marriage thing.

11. informal a mental attitude, preoccupation or obsession (esp in the phrase have a thing about)

12. an activity or mode of behaviour satisfying to one’s personality (esp in the phrase do one’s (own) thing)

13. the done thing acceptable or normal behaviour

14. the thing the latest fashion

15. be on to a good thing to be in a profitable situation or position

16. make a thing of to make a fuss about; exaggerate the importance of

[Old English thing assembly; related to Old Norse thing assembly, Old High German ding assembly]

thing

(θɪŋ; tɪŋ)

(Government, Politics & Diplomacy) (often capital) a law court or public assembly in the Scandinavian countries. Also: ting

[C19: from Old Norse thing assembly (the same word as thing¹)]

Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 12th Edition 2014 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014

thing

(θɪŋ)

1. an inanimate object: a person, animal, or thing.

2. some object that is not or cannot be specifically designated: Hand me that thing.

3. anything that is or may become an object of thought: things of the spirit.

4. things, matters; affairs: How are things?

5. a fact, circumstance, or state of affairs: It is a curious thing.

6. an action, event, or performance: Biking is a fun thing.

7. a particular; detail: You left out some things.

8. aim; objective: The thing is to enjoy it.

9. an article of clothing: not a thing to wear.

10. things,

a. implements; utensils: the breakfast things.

b. personal possessions: Pack your things!

11. a task; chore: things to do.

12. a living being; creature.

13. a thought; observation: a thing or two to say.

14. a peculiar attitude toward something: She has a thing about cats.

15. something represented, as distinguished from a word, symbol, or idea representing it.

16. Informal. issue; subject; topic (usu. preceded by a noun): the leadership thing.

17. the thing,

a. something that is correct or fashionable: It’s the new thing.

b. that which is expedient: Do the right thing.

Idioms:

1. do one’s thing, Informal. to pursue a lifestyle that expresses one’s self.

2. see or hear things, to hallucinate.

[before 900; Middle English; Old English: assembly, affair, entity, being; see thing²]

ThesaurusAntonymsRelated WordsSynonymsLegend:

Noun	1.	thing — a special situation; «this thing has got to end»; «it is a remarkable thing» situation, state of affairs — the general state of things; the combination of circumstances at a given time; «the present international situation is dangerous»; «wondered how such a state of affairs had come about»; «eternal truths will be neither true nor eternal unless they have fresh meaning for every new social situation»- Franklin D.Roosevelt
	2.	thing — an action; «how could you do such a thing?» action — something done (usually as opposed to something said); «there were stories of murders and other unnatural actions»
	3.	thing — a special abstraction; «a thing of the spirit»; «things of the heart» abstract, abstraction — a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance; «he loved her only in the abstract—not in person»
	4.	thing — an artifact; «how does this thing work?» artefact, artifact — a man-made object taken as a whole flagship — the chief one of a related group; «it is their flagship newspaper» pill — something that resembles a tablet of medicine in shape or size snorter — something that is extraordinary or remarkable or prominent; «a snorter of a sermon»; «the storm wasn’t long but it was a snorter» standby — something that can be relied on when needed variation — an artifact that deviates from a norm or standard; «he patented a variation on the sandal» wobbler — something that wobbles
	5.	thing — an event; «a funny thing happened on the way to the…» happening, natural event, occurrence, occurrent — an event that happens feast — something experienced with great delight; «a feast for the eyes»
	6.	thing — a vaguely specified concern; «several matters to attend to»; «it is none of your affair»; «things are going well» affair, matter concern — something that interests you because it is important or affects you; «the safety of the ship is the captain’s concern» least — something that is of no importance; «it is the least I can do»; «that is the least of my concerns»
	7.	thing — a statement regarded as an object; «to say the same thing in other terms»; «how can you say such a thing?» statement — a message that is stated or declared; a communication (oral or written) setting forth particulars or facts etc; «according to his statement he was in London on that day»
	8.	thing — an entity that is not named specifically; «I couldn’t tell what the thing was» entity — that which is perceived or known or inferred to have its own distinct existence (living or nonliving) change — a thing that is different; «he inspected several changes before selecting one» freshener — anything that freshens horror — something that inspires dislike; something horrible; «the painting that others found so beautiful was a horror to him» crackerjack, jimdandy, jimhickey — something excellent of its kind; «the bike was a jimdandy» pacifier — anything that serves to pacify security blanket — anything that an adult person uses to reduce anxiety stinker — anything that gives off an offensive odor (especially a cheap cigar) whacker, whopper — something especially big or impressive of its kind
	9.	thing — any attribute or quality considered as having its own existence; «the thing I like about her is …» attribute — an abstraction belonging to or characteristic of an entity
	10.	thing — a special objective; «the thing is to stay in bounds» objective, aim, object, target — the goal intended to be attained (and which is believed to be attainable); «the sole object of her trip was to see her children»
	11.	thing — a persistent illogical feeling of desire or aversion; «he has a thing about seafood»; «she has a thing about him» feeling — the experiencing of affective and emotional states; «she had a feeling of euphoria»; «he had terrible feelings of guilt»; «I disliked him and the feeling was mutual»
	12.	thing — a separate and self-contained entity physical entity — an entity that has physical existence depicted object, subject, content — something (a person or object or scene) selected by an artist or photographer for graphic representation; «a moving picture of a train is more dramatic than a still picture of the same subject» body of water, water — the part of the earth’s surface covered with water (such as a river or lake or ocean); «they invaded our territorial waters»; «they were sitting by the water’s edge» inessential, nonessential — anything that is not essential; «they discarded all their inessentials» essential, necessary, requisite, necessity, requirement — anything indispensable; «food and shelter are necessities of life»; «the essentials of the good life»; «allow farmers to buy their requirements under favorable conditions»; «a place where the requisites of water fuel and fodder can be obtained» part, piece — a portion of a natural object; «they analyzed the river into three parts»; «he needed a piece of granite» reservoir, source — anything (a person or animal or plant or substance) in which an infectious agent normally lives and multiplies; «an infectious agent depends on a reservoir for its survival» building block, unit — a single undivided natural thing occurring in the composition of something else; «units of nucleic acids» variable — something that is likely to vary; something that is subject to variation; «the weather is one variable to be considered»

thing

noun

1. object, article, implement, machine, device, tool, instrument, mechanism, apparatus, gadget, gizmo (informal), contrivance, whatsit (informal), doo-dah (informal), thingummy (informal), thingummyjig (informal) What’s that thing in the middle of the fountain?

6. fact, detail, particular, point, factor, piece of information The first thing parents want to know is what sex the baby is.

plural noun

1. possessions, stuff, gear, belongings, goods, effects, clothes, luggage, baggage, bits and pieces, paraphernalia, clobber (Brit. slang), odds and ends, chattels, impedimenta She told him to take his things and not come back.

3. circumstances, the situation, the state of affairs, matters, life, affairs Everyone agrees things are getting better.

the thing (Informal) fashionable, trendy (informal), in fashion, in, popular, cool (informal), with it (informal), hip (informal), in vogue, all the rage, du jour (French), the in thing (informal), the new, culty Mobile phones are the thing these days.

your thing your cup of tea, what you like, your bag (informal), what turns you on (informal), what interests you, what floats your boat (informal) Nightclubs are just not my thing!

Collins Thesaurus of the English Language – Complete and Unabridged 2nd Edition. 2002 © HarperCollins Publishers 1995, 2002

thing

noun

1. One that exists independently:

2. Something having material existence:

3. A small specialized mechanical device:

4. One’s portable property.Often used in plural:

5. Things needed for a task, journey, or other purpose.Used in plural:

accouterment (often used in plural), apparatus, equipment, gear, material (used in plural), materiel, outfit, paraphernalia, rig, tackle, turnout.

7. Something to be done, considered, or dealt with:

8. Something that happens:

9. Something significant that happens:

10. Informal. An irrational preoccupation:

11. Informal. The current custom:

Idioms: the in thing, the last word, the latest thing.

12. Slang. Something at which a person excels:

Translations

ding

شَئْشَخْص مَحْبوبشيءشَيْءشَيء، فِكْرَه، أمْر، صِفَه

věcčlověkstvoření

tingvæsengenstand

aĵo

asiese

asiaesine

stvar

dolog

hluturmanneskja

物

물건

res

daiktasdalykaspadarasprieš baigiantprieš miegą

lietapriekšmetsradījumsbūtnekaut kas

lucru

stvarzadevareč

sakting

สิ่งของ

đồ vật

thing

[θɪŋ] N

1. (concrete) (= object) → cosa f
they were selling all sorts of things → vendían todo tipo de cosas
what’s that thing called? → ¿cómo se llama eso?
get that thing off the sofa! → ¡quita esa cosa del sofá!
dogs? I can’t stand the things → ¿perros? no puedo con ellos
a thing of beauty → una belleza, un objeto bello
things of value → objetos mpl de valor
you must be seeing things → estás viendo visiones

2. (non-concrete) (= matter, circumstance, action) → cosa f, asunto m, cuestión f
as things are; with things as they are → tal como están las cosas
that’s how things are → así están las cosas
how are things? → ¿qué tal?
how are things with you? → ¿qué tal te va?, ¿cómo andas?
things are going badly → las cosas van or marchan mal
things aren’t what they used to be → las cosas ya no son como antes or ya no son lo que eran
the thing is → lo que pasa es que …, el caso es que …
the thing is to sell your car first → conviene vender primero tu coche
what a thing to say! → ¡qué dices!, ¡cómo se te ocurre!
I haven’t done a thing about it → no he hecho nada de nada al respecto
I don’t know a thing about cars → no sé nada en absoluto de coches
I didn’t know a thing for that exam → para ese examen no sabía nada de nada, para ese examen yo estaba pez (Sp)
above all things → ante todo, sobre todo
all things considered → bien mirado
all things being equal → si las cosas siguen como ahora
the system cannot be all things to all people → el sistema no puede contentar a todo el mundo
a gentleman in all things → un caballero en todos los aspectos
and for another thing → y además …, y por otra parte …
the best thing would be to wait → lo mejor sería esperar
the next best thing → lo mejor después de eso
we had hoped for better things → habíamos esperado algo mejor
it was a close thing [race] → fue una carrera muy reñida; [accident] → por poco chocamos, casi chocamos; [escape] → escapamos por un pelo
it’s not the done thing → eso no se hace
the first thing to do is → lo primero que hay que hacer es …
first thing (in the morning) → a primera hora (de la mañana)
you don’t know the first thing about it → no sabes nada en absoluto de esto
first things first! → ¡lo primero es lo primero!
it’s a good thing he didn’t see you → menos mal que no te vio
the good thing about it is that → lo bueno es que …
it’s finished and a good thing too → se acabó y me alegro de ello
she knows a good thing when she sees it → sabe obrar de acuerdo con su propio interés
this is too much of a good thing → esto es demasiado
it’s just the thing! → ¡es justo lo que me faltaba!
that’s the last thing we want → eso es lo último que queremos
last thing (at night) → antes de acostarse
the main thing → lo más importante, lo principal
to make a mess of things → estropearlo todo
it was a near thing = it was a close thing
(the) next thing I knew, he’d gone → cuando me di cuenta, ya se había ido
not a thing → nada
for one thing → en primer lugar
what with one thing and another → entre una(s) cosa(s) y otra(s)
it’s one thing to buy it, quite another to make it work → es fácil comprarlo, pero no es tan fácil hacerlo funcionar
if it’s not one thing it’s the other → si no es una cosa es otra
neither one thing nor the other → ni lo uno ni lo otro
the only thing is to paint it → la única cosa que se puede hacer es pintarlo
I showed him the copy and he thought it was the real thing → le enseñé la copia y pensó que era el auténtico
this time I’m in love, it’s the real thing → esta vez estoy enamorada de verdad
to do the right thing → obrar bien, obrar honradamente
you did the right thing → hiciste bien
I’ve done a silly thing → he hecho algo tonto
did you ever see such a thing? → ¿se vio jamás tal cosa?
there’s no such thing! → ¡no hay tal!
the play’s the thing → lo que importa es la representación
it’s just one of those things → son cosas que pasan, son cosas de la vida
he knows a thing or two → sabe de qué va
I could tell you a thing or two about her → podría decirte unas cuantas cosas sobre ella
it’s the very thing! → ¡es justo lo que me faltaba!
to try to be all things to all men → tratar de serlo todo para todos
to be on to a good thing he knew he was on to a good thing when the orders started flowing in → supo que había dado con chollo cuando empezaron a llover los pedidos
to make a (big) thing (out) of sth he made a big thing out of the accident → exageró mucho el accidente
she made a big thing of introducing him to me → me lo presentó con mucho aparato
don’t make a thing of it! → ¡no es para tanto!

4. (= person)
you mean thing! → ¡mira que eres tacaño!
you nasty thing! → ¡mira que eres desagradable!
you poor (old) thing!, poor thing! → ¡pobrecito!
the stupid thing went and sold it → el muy estúpido fue y lo vendió
she’s a sweet little thing, isn’t she? → es monísima, ¿verdad?

5. (= fashion)
the latest thing in hats → lo último en sombreros
it’s quite the thing → está muy de moda

6. (= activity, preference) his thing is fast cars → lo suyo son los coches rápidos
it’s not my thing → no es lo mío
to do one’s own thing → ir a su aire
you know her, she likes to do her own thing → ya la conoces, le gusta ir a su aire

9. (= relationship, affair) he’s got a thing going with her → se entiende con ella
he had a thing with her two years ago → se lió con ella hace dos años

Collins Spanish Dictionary — Complete and Unabridged 8th Edition 2005 © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1971, 1988 © HarperCollins Publishers 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 2000, 2003, 2005

thing

[ˈθɪŋ]

(= object) → chose f, truc m
beautiful things → de belles choses
What’s that thing called? → Comment s’appelle ce truc ?, Comment ça s’appelle?
and things like that → et des choses comme ça
iron and silicon and things like that → du fer et du silicium et des choses comme ça

(= event, situation) → chose f
Don’t bother me with little things like that → Ne m’embête pas avec des petites choses comme ça.
A strange thing happened → Il s’est passé quelque chose de bizarre.
it’s a good thing (that) … → heureusement que …
It’s a good thing that Robert retired → Heureusement que Robert a pris sa retraite.
the thing is, …, the thing is that … → ce qu’il y a c’est que …
for one thing
I prefer badminton to squash. It’s not so tiring for one thing → Je préfère le badminton au squash. D’abord, ce n’est pas aussi fatigant.
to do sth first thing, to do sth first thing in the morning (any morning) → faire qch à la première heure, faire qch le matin à la première heure; (tomorrow morning) → commencer par faire qch
I’ll go and talk to him first thing in the morning → Demain matin je commencerai par aller lui parler.
last thing, he … → juste avant de se coucher, il …
to have a thing about sth/sb (= like) → avoir un faible pour qch/qn (= dislike) → avoir quelque chose contre qch/qn
to do one’s own thing → faire ce qu’on a envie
what with one thing and another → pour une raison ou pour une autre
it’s just one of those things → ce sont des choses qui arrivent

(= anything) (in negative sentences)
He didn’t do a thing to help me → Il n’a pas fait quoi que ce soit pour m’aider.
Don’t you worry about a thing → Ne te fais aucun souci.

(= person, animal)
She’s a sweet little thing → Elle est adorable.
You’re a clever little thing → Tu es loin d’être bête.
poor thing! → le pauvre!(la)
you poor thing! → mon pauvre!(ma)
you lucky thing! → (sacré(e)) veinard(e)!

(what is fashionable)
Going out and getting drunk was considered to be the thing to do → Sortir et se soûler étaient considérés comme LA chose à faire.
it’s the latest thing → c’est la dernière mode

(what is right) the best thing would be to … → le mieux serait de …
to do the right thing → bien faire
the done thing (British)
It’s not the done thing → Ça ne se fait pas.

things npl

(= belongings) → affaires fpl
I like my own things around me → J’aime avoir mes affaires.

(= life in general) → choses fpl
Things are getting better
BUT Ça va mieux.
how are things?, how are things going? → Comment ça va?

thing

(= any material object) → Ding nt; a thing of beauty/great value → etwas Schönes/sehr Wertvolles; she likes sweet things → sie mag Süßes or süße Sachen; what’s that thing? → was ist das?; I don’t have a thing to wear → ich habe nichts zum Anziehen

things pl (= clothes, equipment, belongings) → Sachen pl; have you got your swimming things? → hast du dein Badezeug or deine Badesachen dabei?; they washed up the breakfast things → sie spülten das Frühstücksgeschirr

(non material: = affair, subject) → Sache f; you know, it’s a funny thing → wissen Sie, es ist schon seltsam; the odd/best thing about it is … → das Seltsame/Beste daran ist, …; it’s a good thing I came → nur gut, dass ich gekommen bin; it’s a bad/strange thing but … → es ist schlecht/seltsam, aber …; to make a big thing of or about something → viel Lärm um etw machen; to make a big thing of or about doing something → eine große Sache daraus machen, dass man etw tut; he’s on to or onto a good thing (inf) → er hat da was Gutes aufgetan (inf); he’s got a good thing going there (inf) → der hat da was Gutes laufen (inf); what a (silly) thing to do → wie kann man nur so was (Dummes) tun!; you take the thing too seriously → Sie nehmen die Sache or das zu ernst; there is one/one other thing I want to ask you → eines/und noch etwas möchte ich Sie fragen; and there’s another thing, why didn’t you …? → und noch etwas, warum haben Sie nicht …?; it’s one thing to talk about it, it’s another to do it → es ist eine Sache, davon zu reden, eine völlig andere, es dann auch zu tun; the things you do/say! → was du so machst/sagst!; I must be hearing/seeing things! → ich glaube, ich höre/sehe nicht richtig, ich glaube, ich spinne! (inf); all the things I meant to say/do → alles, was ich sagen/tun wollte; which things in life do you value most? → was or welche Dinge im Leben bewerten Sie am höchsten?; to expect great things of somebody/something → Großes or große Dinge von jdm/etw erwarten; I must think things over → ich muss mir die Sache or das überlegen; things are going from bad to worse → es wird immer schlimmer; as things stand at the moment, as things are … → so wie die Dinge im Moment liegen; how are things (with you)? → wie gehts (bei) Ihnen?; since that’s how things are … → wenn das so ist …, in dem Fall …; it’s bad enough as things are → es ist schon schlimm genug; things aren’t what they used to be → es ist alles nicht mehr so wie früher; to talk of one thing and another → von diesem und jenem reden; taking one thing with another → im Großen und Ganzen, alles in allem; it’s been one thing after the other (going wrong) → es kam eins zum anderen; if it’s not one thing it’s the other → es ist immer irgendetwas; (what) with one thing and another I haven’t had time to do it yet → ich bin einfach noch nicht dazu gekommen; it’s neither one thing nor the other → es ist weder das eine noch das andere; one thing led to another → eins führte zum anderen; for one thing it doesn’t make sense → erst einmal ergibt das überhaupt keinen Sinn; not to see/understand a thing → (absolut) nichts sehen/verstehen; not to know a thing → (absolut) nichts wissen, keine Ahnung haben; to tell somebody a thing or two → jdm einiges erzählen; he knows a thing or two → er hat etwas auf dem Kasten (inf); he knows a thing or two about cars → er kennt sich mit Autos aus; it’s just one of those things → so was kommt eben vor (inf); in all things → in allem ? teach

(= person, animal) → Ding nt; poor little thing → das arme (kleine) Ding!; you poor thing! → du Arme(r)!; she’s a funny old thing → sie ist ein komisches altes Haus (inf); I say, old thing (dated inf) → na, du altes Haus (inf); lucky thing! → der/die Glückliche/du Glückliche(r)!; he looks quite the thing → er sieht (richtig) nach etwas aus

(= what is suitable, best) that’s just the thing for me → das ist genau das Richtige für mich; that’s not the thing to do → so was macht or tut man nicht; his behaviour isn’t quite the thing (dated) → sein Benehmen ist nicht gerade berückend (inf); the latest thing in ties → der letzte Schrei in der Krawattenmode; the thing to do now would be … → was wir jetzt machen sollten, wäre …; that would be the honourable thing to do → es wäre nur anständig, das zu tun

(in phrases) I’m not at my best first thing in the morning → so früh am Morgen bin ich nicht gerade in Hochform; I’ll do that first thing in the morning → ich werde das gleich or als Erstes morgen früh tun; I’ll do it first thing → ich werde das zuerst or als Erstes tun; last thing at night → vor dem Schlafengehen; painting is his thing → das Malen liegt ihm (inf); the thing is to know when … → man muss wissen, wann …; yes, but the thing is … → ja, aber …; the thing is we haven’t got enough money → die Sache ist die, wir haben nicht genug Geld; the thing is, you see, he loves her → das Problem ist, dass er sie liebt; yes but the thing is it won’t work → ja, aber das Dumme ist, es funktioniert nicht; to do one’s own thing (inf) → tun, was man will; when Michael Jackson starts doing his thing (inf) → wenn Michael Jackson seine Schau abzieht (inf); she’s got this thing about Sartre/dogs (inf: = can’t stand) → sie kann Sartre/Hunde einfach nicht ausstehen; (= is fascinated by) → sie hat einen richtigen Sartre-/Hundefimmel (inf); she’s got a thing about spiders (inf) → bei Spinnen dreht sie durch (inf); he’s got a thing about her (inf: = can’t stand) → er kann sie nicht ausstehen; (= is infatuated with) → er ist verrückt nach ihr

(inf, for forgotten name of person) → Dings(bums) mf (inf)

Collins German Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged 7th Edition 2005. © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1980 © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1997, 1999, 2004, 2005, 2007

thing

[θɪŋ] n

a. → cosa; (object) → oggetto; (contraption) → aggeggio
a thing of beauty → una bella cosa, un bell’oggetto
things of value → oggetti di valore
what’s that thing? → cos’è quell’affare?
the main thing is to keep calm → la cosa più importante è mantenere la calma
the first thing to do is (to) check the facts → la prima cosa da fare è controllare i fatti
the best thing would be to … → la cosa migliore sarebbe di…
for one thing → in primo luogo, tanto per cominciare
what with one thing and another → tra una cosa e l’altra
if it’s not one thing it’s the other → se non è una è l’altra
it’s neither one thing nor the other → non è né carne né pesce
first thing (in the morning) → come or per prima cosa (di mattina)
last thing (at night) → come or per ultima cosa (di sera)
it’s a good thing that he left → è stato un bene che se ne sia andato
it was a close or near thing → ce l’ha fatta per un pelo
it’s the (very) thing → è proprio quello che ci vuole
the thing is … → il fatto è che…
it’s just one of those things → sono cose che capitano
what a thing to say! → cosa dici mai!
how are things (with you)? → come (ti) va?
things are going badly → le cose vanno male
things aren’t what they used to be → non è più come una volta
not a thing to say/to wear → niente da dire/da mettersi
I haven’t done a thing about it yet → non ho ancora fatto niente
he knows a thing or two → la sa lunga
to make a mess of things → farla grossa, combinare un casino
you did the right thing (fam) → hai fatto la cosa migliore
to make a (big) thing out of sth (fam) → fare una tragedia di qc

b. things npl (belongings, clothes, equipment) → roba sg, cose fpl
take your wet things off → togliti quella roba bagnata di dosso
the tea things → le cose per il tè
take your things and go! → prendi la tua roba e vattene!

d. (creature) poor thing → poveretto/a
what a sweet little thing! → che carino!

thing

(θiŋ) noun

1. an object; something that is not living. What do you use that thing for?

2. a person, especially a person one likes. She’s a nice old thing.

3. any fact, quality, idea etc that one can think of or refer to. Music is a wonderful thing; I hope I haven’t done the wrong thing; That was a stupid thing to do.

things noun plural

things, especially clothes, that belong to someone. Take all your wet things off.

first thing (in the morningetc)

early in the morning just after getting up, starting work etc. I’ll do it first thing (in the morning).

last thing (at nightetc)

late at night, just before stopping work, going to bed etc. She always has a cup of tea last thing at night.

the thing is …

the important fact or question is; the problem is. The thing is, is he going to help us?

thing

→ شَئْ věc ting Ding πράγμα cosa esine chose stvar cosa 物 물건 ding ting rzecz coisa вещь sak สิ่งของ şey đồ vật 东西

Источник

Потому что мы говорим не словами, а устойчивыми фразами, раз за разом используя привычные словосочетания. Именно построение фразы выдаёт иностранца, говорящего так, словно он читает газету. У носителя же языка готовые словесные обороты выскакивают сами собой.

Фактрум публикует самые важные английские идиомы с переводами и примерами их употребления.

Идиомы с трактовкой и синонимами Перевод Пример after all — despite, nevertheless все-таки I knew it! After all, I was right! all along — all the time все время, всегда I knew about his little secret all along. all ears — eager to listen весь внимание I am all ears. all of a sudden — suddenly неожиданно All of a sudden, he refused to pay. all the same — no difference все равно, без разницы If it’s all the same to you, let’s start at two. all thumbs — clumsy неуклюжий, неумелый He can’t fix anything, he’s all thumbs. apple of discord — subject of envy or quarrel яблоко раздора This question is an apple of discord in our family. as a rule — usually как правило As a rule, we offer a 5% discount. as far as I am concerned — in my opinion что касается меня, по моему мнению As far as I am concerned, both the book and the movie are good. as for me/as to me — in my opinion по моему мнению As for me, you can rely on his support. as well — also, too тоже, также He knows math, and physics as well. at all — (not) in the smallest degree совсем (не) He doesn’t know French at all. I don’t like it at all. at random — without order наугад, без плана He chose those places at random. at this point — at this time на данном этапе At this point, we can’t turn back. be about to — ready (to do) готов сделать I was about to leave when you called. be after someone — insist, press настаивать, чтобы сделал His mother is always after him to study. be all in — be extremely tired очень устать I’m all in, I’d better go to bed now. be back on one’s feet — healthy again or better financially встать на ноги после трудного времени He’s back on his feet after a long period of debt and unemployment. beat around the bush — avoid giving a clear/definite answer ходить вокруг да около Stop beating around the bush! Get to the point! be beside oneself — be very upset, nervous, worried, etc. быть вне себя от волнения, горя и др. She was beside herself with worry / with grief. be better off — be in a better situation (financially) в лучшей ситуации (материально) He’ll be better off with a new job. be broke — have no money at all быть «на мели» (без денег) I spent all my money, I’m broke. be hard on something /someone — treat roughly не беречь что-то My son is hard on shoes, they don’t last long with him. Life was pretty hard on Tom. be high on one’s list — be one of the most important things быть в начале списка нужных вещей A new car is high on my list of priorities. A new TV is not high on my list. be in charge of — be responsible for быть ответственным за He is in charge of marketing. be in the red — be in debt быть убыточным Our sales were in the red last year. be into smth. — be interested in увлекаться чем-то He is into computers. She is into sports. bend over backwards — try hard очень стараться I bent over backwards to help her. be on one’s way Я уже еду. I’m on my way. be on the safe side — not to take any chances на всякий случай Take an extra key, just to be on the safe side. be out of — be without нет в наличии We are out of bread, cheese, and sugar. be out of shape — be physically unfit быть не в форме He needs to exercise, he is out of shape. be out of sorts — in bad humor не в духе Leave him alone, he’s out of sorts today be pressed for time / money — be short of; not have enough не хватать времени или денег I’m pressed for time now. We are pressed for money at the moment. beside the point — off the point не по существу, не относится к делу What I said to him privately is beside the point. be to blame — be responsible for a mistake / something wrong винить за ошибку, неправильные действия Who is to blame for this awful mistake? Tom is to blame for this mix-up. be touch and go — be uncertain of the result на грани; неясно, куда повернется He was very sick, and for some time it was touch and go, but he is better now. be up against — be opposed by, have problems, be in danger иметь серьезные проблемы в чем-то, с чем-то Our company is up against serious attempts of hostile takeover. be up and around/about — able to be out of bed after an illness встать на ноги, поправиться He was sick for a month, but now he is up and around. be up to one’s ears — very busy по уши I’m up to my ears in work. be up to something — do mischief задумать, затеять I have to check what the kids are up to. be up to someone — be one’s own decision or responsibility на ваше усмотрение, под вашу ответственность It’s up to you to decide. It’s up to you to close the office every day at 8 o’clock. be used to — be accustomed to быть привычным к I’m used to hard work. He’s used to heat. big shot — important person важная персона He is a big shot around here. bite off more than one can chew — try to do more than one can переоценить свои силы I couldn’t handle two jobs and family. I really bit off more than I could chew. bite one’s tongue — stop talking прикусить язык I almost told her, but bit my tongue. bite the dust — die, be defeated умереть, падать ниц Many of them bit the dust in that war. black sheep — a good-for-nothing member of the family паршивая овца Their second son is the black sheep of the family, he is good for nothing. blind date — a meeting of a man and woman arranged by friends свидание вслепую She refuses to go on a blind date again because she had bad experience. blow it — lose the chance потерять шанс He understood that he blew it. blow over — pass, end стихнуть, пройти Wait here till his anger blows over. bottom line — main result/factor итог, основной момент The bottom line is, I don’t have enough money. break into — enter by force ворваться (в дом) силой The police broke into the robber’s house. break one’s heart — hurt deeply разбить сердце The news of her death broke his heart. break the ice — overcome shyness in making the first step сломать неловкость при знакомстве The party was dull until someone broke the ice with a joke and we all laughed. break the news — tell new facts сообщить важную новость CNN is breaking the news right now. bring home the bacon — earn the living for the family обеспечить семью He works very hard at several places to bring home the bacon. brush off — give no attention to отмахнуться от The boss brushed off my project again. brush up on — review освежить в памяти You need to brush up on the tenses. by all means -definitely, certainly обязательно, конечно Do you need my help? — By all means. by heart — by memorizing наизусть Learn this poem by heart for tomorrow. by hook or by crook — by any means possible любым путем, любым способом She will get what she wants by hook or by crook. by the way — incidentally кстати By the way, Ann is coming back today. call a spade a spade — use plain, direct words называть вещи своими именами He always tells the truth and calls a spade a spade. call it a day — consider work finished for the day считать работу законченной We’ve been working for 10 straight hours. Let’s call it a day. call off — cancel отменить, отозвать The police called off the search. carry out — fulfill доводить до конца She never carries out her plans. carry weight — be important иметь вес His advice always carries weight here. cast down — depressed, sad повергнуть в уныние He was cast down by the bad news. castles in the air — daydreaming about success (строить) воздушные замки Instead of working hard, he spends time building castles in the air. catch one’s eye — attract attention привлечь внимание This picture caught my eye. catch one’s breath — stop and rest перевести дух I can’t run, I need to catch my breath. catch someone off guard — catch someone unprepared застать врасплох He caught me off guard with his question. catch someone red-handed — find smb. in the act of doing wrong поймать за руку, когда делал плохое The manager caught the boy red-handed when he was stealing cigarettes. catch up — become not behind догнать He needs to catch up with the others. close call — a narrow escape, a bad thing that almost happened что-то плохое, что едва не случилось The speeding car almost hit the man. That was really a close call. come across — meet by chance наткнуться на I came across that article yesterday. come down with — become ill заболеть чем-то I’m coming down with a cold. come to one’s senses — start acting reasonably, intelligently взяться за ум, придти в себя He finally came to his senses, started to work hard, and passed his exams. come true — become reality осуществиться My dream came true when I met Pat. come up with — suggest предложить Mike came up with a brilliant idea. count on — depend on рассчитывать на You can always count on me for help. cut corners — to take a short-cut; to limit one’s spending срезать углы; ограничить расходы He ran fast, cutting corners where he could. I have to cut corners this week. cut down on — reduce сократить потребление You have to cut down on chocolate. cut out to be /cut out for it — have the ability to do something быть созданным для какой-то работы She isn’t cut out to be a surgeon. He’s cut out to be a leader. do one’s best — try very hard сделать все, что смог I did my best to help him in his work. do one’s bit — do what’s needed сделать положенное I’ll do my bit, you can count on me. do over — do again сделать заново This work is not good, do it over. do someone good — be good for принести пользу Fresh air and exercise will do you good. do something behind one’s back — do (harmful) things secretively делать (вредные) дела за спиной I hate people who do things behind my back. He did it behind my back again. do without — live without обходиться без I’ll have to do without a car for a while. down to earth — practical приземленный He’s quiet, sensible and down to earth. draw the line — fix a limit ограничить (предел) He drew the line for her at $100 a day. dress up — put on the best clothes нарядиться What are you dressed up for? drop off — deliver somewhere подвезти до, подбросить до Can you drop me off at the bank? drop out — quit (school) быть отчисленным He dropped out of school last year. duty calls — must fulfill obligations долг обязывает He said, «Duty calls» and left for work. easier said than done легче сказать, чем сделать It’s easier said than done, but I’ll try to do it. eat one’s words — take back words брать назад слова He had to eat his words after her report. even so — nevertheless, but тем не менее I work hard. Even so, I like my job. every now and then -occasionally время от времени Every now and then I visit my old aunt. every other — every second one через один She washes her hair every other day. fall behind — lag behind отстать от The little boy fell behind the older boys. fall in love — begin to love влюбиться Tom fell in love with Sue at first sight. fall out of love — stop loving разлюбить They fell out of love and divorced soon. false alarm — untrue rumor ложная тревога I heard he quit but it was a false alarm. a far cry from something — very different, almost opposite (neg.) далеко не такой хороший, как His second book wasn’t bad, but it was a far cry from his first book. feel it in one’s bones — expect something bad to happen чувствовать, что случится плохое Something bad is going to happen, I feel it in my bones. feel like doing something — want to do, be inclined to do smth. быть склонным к занятию чем-то I feel like going for a walk. I don’t feel like working now, I’m tired. feel up to — be able to do в состоянии сделать I don’t feel up to cleaning the house. few and far between — rare, scarce слишком редкие Her visits are few and far between. find fault with — criticize критиковать He always finds faults with everybody. find out — learn or discover узнать, обнаружить I found out that Maria left town. firsthand — directly from the source из первых рук, достоверная информация You can trust it, it’s firsthand information. first things first — important things come before others сначала главное First things first: how much money do we have to pay right away? fly off the handle — get angry разозлиться (вдруг) He flew off the handle and yelled at me. follow in someone’s footsteps — do the same thing идти по чьим-то следам, делать то же Igor followed in his father’s footsteps, he became a doctor, too. foot in the door — a special opportunity for a job получить шанс на работу Nina got a foot in the door because her friend works in that company. foot the bill — pay the bill заплатить по счету Her father footed the bill for the party. for good — forever навсегда After her death, he left town for good. for the time being — at this time на данное время For the time being, this house is all right for us. frame of mind — mental state умонастроение I can’t do it in this frame of mind. from A to Z — completely от начала до конца He knows this town from A to Z. from now on — now and in the future впредь From now on, I forbid you to go there. get a grip on oneself — take control of one’s feelings контролировать свои чувства Stop crying! Get a grip on yourself! get along with — have good relations быть в хороших отношениях, ладить Ann gets along with most coworkers, but doesn’t get along with Laura. get away with — not be caught after doing wrong уйти от наказания The police didn’t find the thief. He got away with his crime. get carried away — get too excited and enthusiastic about something слишком увлечься чем-то He got carried away with opening a store and lost most of his money. get cold feet — be afraid to do побояться сделать I wanted to try it but got cold feet. get even with — have one’s revenge расквитаться с кем-то I’ll get even with him for everything! get in touch with — contact связаться с кем-то Get in touch with Mr. Smith for help. get lost — lose one’s way потерять дорогу She got lost in the old part of town. Get lost! — Lay off! Исчезни! I don’t want to see you again. Get lost! get mixed up — get confused перепутать I got mixed up, went the wrong way and got lost. get off one’s back — leave alone отстать от кого-то Stop bothering me! Get off my back! get on one’s high horse — behave haughtily towards someone вести себя высокомерно Every time I ask her to help me with typing, she gets on her high horse. get on (the bus, train, plane) сесть на (транспорт) I got on the bus on Oak Street. get off (the bus, train, plane) сойти с (транспорта) I got off the bus at the bank. get out of hand — get out of control выйти из-под контроля If he gets out of hand again, call me right away. get over — recover after an illness or bad experience поправиться, преодолеть что-то I can’t get over how rude he was to me. She got over her illness quite quickly. get rid of — dispose of, discard избавиться He got rid of his old useless car. get together — meet with собираться вместе My friends and I get together often. get to the bottom — know deeply добраться до сути He usually gets to the bottom of things. get to the point — get to the matter дойти до сути дела Get to the point! Give me a break! — spare me с меня хватит Come on, stop it! Give me a break! give someone a hand — help помочь кому-то Can you give me a hand with cooking? give someone a lift /a ride — take to some place by car подвезти кого-то Can you give me a lift to the bank? He gave her a ride in his new Porsche. give someone a piece of one’s mind — criticize frankly высказать, что на уме, критиковать She lost my umbrella again, so I gave her a piece of my mind about her carelessness. give up — stop doing something, stop trying to do something отказаться от чего-то, прекратить попытки I gave up smoking. I gave up trying to fix my old car. go back on one’s word — break a promise нарушить свое слово, обещание First he said he would help me, but then he went back on his word. go for it — try to do a new thing пробовать новое дело If I were you, I would go for it. go from bad to worse — be worse становиться все хуже His business went from bad to worse. go out — go to parties, movies пойти развлекаться Do he and his wife go out often? go out of one’s way -try very hard очень стараться He goes out of his way to please her. go to one’s head — make too proud успех вскружил голову His acting success went to his head. go to pieces — get very upset, fall apart сильно расстроиться She went to pieces when she heard it. go with the flow — lead quiet life плыть по течению She always goes with the flow. grow on someone — become liked постепенно понравиться When she knew him more, he grew on her. had better — should лучше бы, а то… You look ill, you’d better see a doctor. have a ball — have a good time отлично провести время Yesterday we had a ball at the party. have a bone to pick — complain or discuss something unpleasant иметь счеты с кем-то, претензии к кому-то Mr. Brown, I have a bone to pick with you. My mail was lost because of you. have a word with someone — talk to поговорить о чем-то Can I have a word with you? have words with someone — argue with someone about something крупно поговорить I had words with my coworker today because he used my computer again. have it in him — have the ability иметь нужные качества Laura has it in her to be a good doctor. have no business doing something — have no right to do нечего вам здесь делать, быть и др. You have no business staying here without my permission. have one’s back to the wall — be hard-pressed, on the defensive быть прижатым к стене I had no choice, I had my back to the wall. have one’s hands full — very busy быть очень занятым He has his hands full with hard work. have one’s heart set on something — want something very much очень хотеть получить что-то, кого-то She has her heart set on going to New York. He has his heart set on Betty. have pull — have influence on иметь влияние на Does he have pull with the director? (not) have the heart — (not) have the courage to do smth. unpleasant (не) хватает духа сделать неприятное I don’t have the heart to tell him that he wasn’t accepted, he’ll be so unhappy. high and low — everywhere везде (искать и т.д.) I searched high and low for my lost cat. hit the nail on the head — say exactly the right thing попасть в точку You hit the nail on the head when you said our company needs a new director. hit upon something — to discover обнаружить ценное They hit upon gold. I hit upon a plan. hold it against someone — blame somebody for doing something (не) держать зла на кого-то I lost his book, but he doesn’t hold it against me. Hold it! — Stop! Wait! Остановитесь/Стойте! Hold it! I forgot my key. Hold on! — Wait! Подождите! Hold on! I’ll be back in a minute. hold one’s own — maintain oneself in a situation, behave as needed постоять за себя, утвердиться в чем-то He can hold his own in any situation. We need men who can hold their own. hold up — rob using a weapon грабить с применением оружия This bank was held up twice last year. ill at ease — uncomfortable не по себе She felt ill at ease because of her cheap dress. in advance — well before заранее He told her about his plan in advance. in a nutshell — in a few words кратко, вкратце In a nutshell, my plan is to buy land. in care of someone — write to one person at the address of another адресату по адресу другого человека (у кого остановился) I’m staying at Tom’s house. Write to me in care of Tom Gray, Chicago, Illinois. in cold blood — mercilessly хладнокровно He killed her in cold blood. in fact — actually, in reality фактически In fact, he works as a manager here. in general — generally, generally speaking в общем, вообще In general, he likes to be alone. He described the place only in general. in one’s element — what one likes в своей стихии He’s in his element when he’s arguing. in other words — using other words другими словами In other words, you refused to do it for her. in plain English — in simple, frank terms проще говоря I didn’t really like the concert. In plain English, the concert was terrible. the ins and outs — all info about входы и выходы He knows the ins and outs of this business. in someone’s shoes — in another person’s position на месте другого, в положении другого I’d hate to be in his shoes now. He lost his job, and his wife is in the hospital. in the long run — in the end в конечном счете In the long run, it’ll be better to buy it. in the same boat — in the same situation в таком же положении Stop arguing with me, we’re in the same boat and should help each other. in the clear — free from blame вне претензий Pay the bill and you’ll be in the clear. in time (to do something) — before something begins придти вовремя, чтобы успеть что-то сделать (до начала чего-то) I came in time to have a cup of coffee before class. it goes without saying — should be clear without words не стоит и говорить, само собой It goes without saying that he must pay what he owes right away. It’s on the tip of my tongue. вертится на языке His name is on the tip of my tongue. it’s time — should do it right away пора Hurry up, it’s time to go. It’s worth it. / It’s not worth it. It’s (not) worth buying, visiting, watching, etc. оно того стоит /оно того не стоит; (не) стоит покупать, посетить, смотреть и т.д. Watch this film, it’s worth it. Don’t buy this coat, it is not worth it. This museum is worth visiting. This film is not worth watching. it will do — it’s enough достаточно Stop reading, it will do for now. jump at the opportunity/chance — accept the opportunity eagerly ухватиться за возможность His boss mentioned a job in Europe, and Peter jumped at the opportunity. just as soon — prefer this one предпочел бы (это) I’d just as soon stay home, I’m tired. just in case — to be on the safe side на всякий случай Take an extra shirt, just in case. Just my luck! — Bad / Hard luck! Мне всегда не везет! They lost my job application. Just my luck! keep an eye on — take care of, watch, look after последить за, присмотреть за Betty keeps an eye on my sons for me. I’ll keep an eye on you! keep a straight face — not to laugh стараться не смеяться I tried to keep a straight face, but failed. keep company — accompany составить компанию She keeps me company quite often. keep one’s word — fulfill a promise держать слово You promised, now keep your word. keep someone posted — inform держать в курсе событий Keep me posted about your plans. keep your fingers crossed — hope that nothing will go wrong надеяться, что все пройдет гладко I have a job interview today. Keep your fingers crossed for me, will you? kill time — fill/spend empty time убить время I went to the show to kill time. (not) know the first thing about — not to have any knowledge about ничего не знать по какой-то теме I don’t know the first thing about nuclear physics. know the ropes — be very familiar with some business знать все ходы и выходы He knows all the ropes in this company. last-minute notice — little or no time to prepare for something сообщение в последний момент His arrival was a last-minute notice, we didn’t have time to prepare for it. lay one’s cards on the table — be frank and open сказать честно, открыть карты Finally, we asked him to lay his cards on the table and tell us about his plans. lay one’s life on the line — put oneself in a dangerous situation ставить жизнь на карту He laid his life on the line to fulfill this task, but nobody appreciated his efforts. lead a dog’s life — live in misery вести собачью жизнь He leads a dog’s life. lead someone on — make someone believe something that isn’t true заставить кого-то поверить неправде They suspect that you are leading them on. You led me on! leave it at that — accept reluctantly оставить как есть Leave it at that, what else can you do? leave word — leave a message оставить сообщение He left word for you to meet him at the airport at 6. let bygones be bygones — forget and forgive bad things in the past не ворошить прошлое Why don’t you let bygones be bygones and forget about what he said? let go of — release the hold отпустить, не держать Let go of my hand or I’ll call the guard. let (it) go — forget bad experience, return to normal life освободиться от тяжелого переживания He’s still in despair and can’t let (it) go. You can’t change anything, so let it go. let one’s hair down — be relaxed and informal with other people держаться неофициально She is always so formal. She never lets her hair down. let someone down — disappoint, fail someone подвести кого-то Don’t let me down this time! let someone know — inform известить Let me know when you find a job. like father, like son — be like one’s parent in something какой отец, такой и сын Paul won a prize in a chess tournament. Great! Like father, like son! little by little — step by step понемногу Little by little, he got used to Tokyo. look for — search for искать What are you looking for? look forward to — expect with pleasure ожидать с нетерпением I’m looking forward to your letter. Mary is looking forward to the party. look out — be careful, watch out остерегаться Look out! The bus is coming! look up — check with /in a dictionary or a reference book посмотреть в словаре или справочнике If you don’t know this word, look it up in the dictionary. lose one’s temper — become angry разозлиться He loses his temper very often. lose one’s way — get lost потерять дорогу I lost my way. Can you help me? lose track of — not to know where someone or something is потерять из виду I lost track of him years ago. lucky break — a lucky chance счастливый случай He got his lucky break when he got this job. make a living — earn money to provide for life зарабатывать на жизнь He works hard. His family is big, and he has to make a living somehow. make allowance for — take into consideration when judging учитывать, делать скидку на Don’t criticize him so hard, make (an) allowance for his inexperience. make a point of — be sure to do something intentionally считать обязательным для себя сделать что-то Make a point of asking about his wife. Make it a point to be here by 10. make ends meet — to have and spend only what one earns сводить концы с концами His doesn’t get much money. I wonder how he manages to make ends meet. make friends — become friends подружиться Anton makes new friends easily. make fun of — laugh at, joke about высмеивать He made fun of her German accent. make no bones about it — say/do openly, without hesitation сказать прямо, не скрывая отношения I’ll make no bones about it: I don’t like your attitude to work. make room for — allow space for освободить место для We can make room for one more dog. make sense — be logical имеет смысл What you say makes sense. make the most of smth — do the best in the given situation извлечь лучшее из Let’s make the most of our vacation. make up — become friends again помириться I’m tired of fighting. Let’s make up. make up for smth — compensate компенсировать I’ll make up for the time you spent on it. make up one’s mind — decide принять решение When will you go? Make up your mind. make yourself at home — be comfortable, feel at home будьте как дома Come in please. Make yourself at home. man of his word — one who keeps promises, is dependable хозяин своего слова, держит слово You can depend on his promise to help. He’s a man of his word. mean well — have good intentions хотеть сделать, как лучше He meant well, but it turned out that he spoiled a couple of things for me. might as well — a good idea может быть неплохо I might as well telephone him now. missing person — someone who is lost and can’t be located пропавший человек (в розыске) The little boy disappeared. The police registered him as a missing person. meet someone halfway — compromise with others идти на компромисс с кем-то He’s reasonable and tries to meet his coworkers halfway, when possible. never mind — it doesn’t matter неважно, ничего Thank you. — Never mind. not to mention — in addition to не говоря уж We have three dogs, not to mention two cats. no wonder — not surprising неудивительно, что He ate three big fish. No wonder he’s sick. now and again — occasionally время от времени I meet them now and again at the bank. odds and ends — a variety of small unimportant things or leftovers мелочи, остатки, обрезки I needed to buy some odds and ends for the kitchen. off the cuff — without preparation без подготовки Off the cuff, I can give you only a rough estimate. off the point — beside the point не относится к делу What I think about him is off the point. off the record — not for the public, unofficially не для публики, неофициально Strictly off the record, I think the director is going to get married soon. once and for all — decidedly однажды и навсегда You must quit smoking once and for all. on credit — not pay cash right away в кредит He bought a car on credit. on edge — nervous, irritable нервный, раздраженный He’s been on edge ever since she left. on guard — on the alert настороже, бдительный He’s cautious and always on guard. on hand — available под рукой Do you have a calculator on hand? on one’s own — alone, by oneself самостоятельно, один, сам по себе She likes to live and work on her own. on one’s toes — alert, attentive, prepared for difficulties бдительный, собранный He was on his toes and produced a very good impression on them. on purpose — intentionally нарочно, с целью I didn’t do it on purpose, it just happened so. on second thought — after thinking again по зрелом размышлении I’d like to sit on the aisle. On second thought, I’d like a window seat. on the alert — on guard начеку, настороже He’s cautious and always on the alert. on the carpet — called in by the boss for criticism вызвать на ковер Yesterday the boss called her on the carpet for being rude to the coworkers. on the go — busy, on the move в движении, на ходу He is always on the go. on the off chance — unlikely to happen, but still маловероятно, но на всякий случай On the off chance that you don’t find him at work, here’s his home address. on the other hand — considering the other side of the question с другой стороны I’d like to have a dog. On the other hand, my wife likes cats better. on the spot — right there на месте, сразу I decided to do it on the spot. on the spur of the moment — without previous thought / plan под влиянием момента He bought this car on the spur of the moment, now he regrets it. on time — punctual в назначенное время Jim is always on time. out of one’s mind — crazy сумасшедший If you think so, you’re out of your mind. out of one’s way — away from someone’s usual route не по пути I can’t give you a lift to the bank, it’s out of my way today. out of the question — impossible не может быть и речи Paying him is out of the question! pack rat — a person who saves lots of unnecessary things тот, кто не выбрасывает старые ненужные вещи Why does she keep all those things she never uses? — She is a pack rat. pay attention — be attentive обратить внимание Pay attention to his words. pick a fight — start a quarrel начать ссору He often tries to pick a fight with me. pick up — take, get подобрать, взять I’ll pick you up at 7. play one’s cards right — choose the right steps in doing something сыграть правильно If you play your cards right, he’ll agree to your plan. potluck supper — a surprise meal, where nobody knows what dishes other guests will bring ужин вскладчину, никто не знает, что принесут другие You know what happened at our last potluck supper? Everybody brought macaroni and cheese, apples, and beer! pull oneself together — brace oneself, summon your strength cобраться с силами Stop crying and complaining! You have to pull yourself together now. pull the wool over someone’s eyes — deceive, mislead someone обмануть, ввести в заблуждение Are you trying to pull the wool over my eyes? It won’t do you any good. put a damper on — discourage охладить пыл She always puts a damper on my plans. put in a word for someone — say positive things about someone замолвить словечко I’d be very grateful if you could put in a word for me when you speak to him. put off — postpone откладывать Don’t put it off till tomorrow. put one’s foot down — object strongly решительно воспротивиться Her father put his foot down when she said she wanted to marry Alan. put one’s foot in it — do the wrong thing, make a fool of oneself сделать/сказать глупость He put his foot in it when he told the boss his daughter wasn’t pretty. put up with — accept, tolerate мириться с, терпеть I can’t put up with your bad work! quite a bit of — much, a lot of много I had quite a bit of trouble with that car. quite a few — many, a lot of много He wrote quite a few good stories. rack one’s brain — try hard to think напрячь мозги He racked his brain to solve the puzzle. read between the lines — find or understand the implied meaning читать между строк His books are not easy to understand; you have to read between the lines. remember me to — say hello to передать привет от Please remember me to your family. right away — immediately сразу же, немедленно It’ very important to do it right away. ring a bell — remind someone of something familiar /half-forgotten напоминает что-то знакомое Annabel Lee? Yeah, it rings a bell, but I can’t place it right now. rock the boat — make the situation unstable раскачивать лодку, вести к нестабильности Peter always rocks the boat when we discuss company’s spending policy. rub shoulders with — meet with близко общаться с He doesn’t rub shoulders with the rich. rub someone the wrong way — irritate, annoy, make angry раздражать, злить кого-то His remarks rub many coworkers the wrong way. run into — meet by chance случайно встретить I ran into an old friend yesterday. save face — try to change the negative impression produced спасать репутацию He said a stupid thing and tried to save face by saying he misunderstood me. save one’s breath — stop useless talk не трать слова попусту There’s no use talking to him about his spending habits, so save your breath. scratch the surface — study something superficially изучать поверхностно He examines all the facts closely, he doesn’t just scratch the surface. see about — make arrangements for позаботиться о чем-то I have to see about our plane tickets. see eye to eye — agree сходиться в мнении We don’t see eye to eye any longer. serve someone right — get what someone deserves поделом It serves him right that he didn’t get this job, he despised all other candidates. serve one’s purpose — be useful to someone for his purpose отвечать цели I doubt that hiring this man will serve your purpose. show promise — be promising подавать надежды This young actor shows promise. show up — appear появиться I waited for hours but he didn’t show up. size up — evaluate someone оценить, составить мнение It took me 5 minutes to size up that man. sleep on it — postpone a decision till next morning отложить решение до следующего утра Don’t decide now, sleep on it. a slip of the tongue — a mistake обмолвка (ошибка) It was just a slip of the tongue! slip (from) one’s mind — forget забыть It slipped my mind what she asked me. smell a rat — suspect something подозревать недоброе I’m not sure what it is, but I smell a rat. so far — up to now до сих пор, пока So far, I have read 3 books by King. so much the better — it’s even better еще лучше If he can pay cash, so much the better. spill the beans — tell a secret проболтаться Who spilled the beans about our plan? stand a chance — have a chance нет шансов He doesn’t stand a chance of getting it. stand out — be noticeable выделяться He stands out in any group of people. stand to reason — be logical логично, что It stands to reason that he apologized. straight from the shoulder — speak frankly честно, откровенно Don’t try to spare my feelings, give it to me straight from the shoulder. take a dim view of something — disapprove of something не одобрять My sister takes a dim view of the way I raise my children. take a break — stop for rest сделать перерыв Let’s take a break, I’m tired. take advantage of — use for one’s own benefit, to profit from воспользоваться возможностью We took advantage of the low prices and bought a computer and a monitor. take after — be like one of the parents быть похожим на родителей (родителя) Tom takes after his father in character, and after his mother in appearance. take a stand on something — make a firm opinion/decision on smth. занять четкую позицию, мнение People need to take a stand on the issue of nuclear weapons. take care of — look after, protect, see that smth. is done properly позаботиться о ком-то, чем-то, присмотреть за Can you take care of my dog while I’m away? Tom takes good care of his car. take hold of something — take, hold взять, держать Take hold of this rope and pull. take into account — consider smth. принять во внимание You must take into account her old age. take it easy — relax, be calm не волнуйся Take it easy, everything will be OK. take (it) for granted — accept as given принимать как должное Mother’s love is always taken for granted by children. take one’s breath away захватить дух That great view took my breath away. take one’s time — do slowly делать не торопясь Don’t hurry. Take your time. take one’s word for it — believe поверить на слово Take my word for it, he won’t go there. take pains — try hard to do it well прилагать усилия He took pains to make his report perfect. take part in smth. — participate in принять участие Mary is going to take part in the show. take place — happen иметь место, случиться The accident took place on Oak Street. take someone’s mind off things — distract from fixed ideas/thoughts отвлечь от навязчивых мыслей Go to a concert or a movie to take your mind off things. take steps — take action /measures принимать меры We need to take steps against it. take the words right out of one’s mouth — say the same before somebody else says it сказать то же самое чуть раньше, чем другой говорящий I was about to say the same! You took the words right out of my mouth. take time — take a long time занять много времени It takes time to get used to a new place. take time off — be absent from work взять отгул He took time off to attend the wedding. take turns — alternate doing something one after another делать по очереди, меняться местами We went to Minsk by car. We didn’t get tired because we took turns driving talk back — answer rudely дерзить Don’t talk back to the teacher! talk it over — discuss обсудить с кем-то I’ll talk it over with my family. tell apart — see the difference различить, отличить от Can you tell the twins apart? That’s just the point. — That’s it. В этом-то и дело. That’s just the point! I hate this job! the writing on the wall — a sign of future events (usually, trouble) предзнаменование (обычно, беды) The plane crashed. Tim said he saw the writing on the wall about this flight. not think much of — think low невысокого мнения I don’t think much of her cooking. think over — consider carefully обдумать Think over your answer. Think it over carefully. till one is blue in the face — try hard стараться до посинения I repeated it till I was blue in the face! to make a long story short — in short короче говоря To make a long story short, we won. to say the least — to make the minimum comment about smth. самое малое, что можно сказать The film was boring and long, to say the least. try on — put on new clothes to test them for size or look примерить одежду (перед покупкой) Try on this leather coat, it’s very good. She tried it on, but it didn’t fit her at all. try one’s hand at something — try попробовать себя в I want to try my hand at painting. turn on / off — switch on / off включить/выключить Turn on the radio. Turn off the water. turn out to be — result/end this way оказаться He turned out to be a very good actor. turn over a new leaf — make a fresh start in life, work, etc. начать (жизнь, новое дело) заново He promises to turn over a new leaf and quit alcohol for good. turn the tide — reverse the course of events повернуть вспять ход событий The new evidence turned the tide, and the defendant was acquitted of charges. twist one’s arm — make to agree выкручивать руки They twisted his arm to sell the house. under the weather — feel ill нездоровится I’m a little under the weather today. up-and-coming — showing promise of future success многообещающий, подающий надежды He is an up-and-coming young lawyer who might help you with your case. up in arms — hostile to, in strong protest against something протестовать против, сопротивляться The employees are up in arms about the new retirement rules. up in the air — undecided еще не определено My vacation plans are still up in the air. (not) up to par — equal in standard (не) в норме His behavior isn’t up to par. used to — did often in the past, but not now в прошлом делал, сейчас нет I used to play the piano when I was in school (but I don’t play it now). walk on air — be very happy летать от счастья He got the job and is walking on air now. waste one’s breath — speak uselessly, to no purpose не трать усилия зря Don’t waste your breath trying to make him do it, he won’t change his mind. watch one’s step — be careful быть осмотрительным Watch your step! watch out — look out, be careful остерегаться Watch out for that car! Watch out! wet blanket — a kill-joy, who spoils everybody’s fun тот, кто портит всем удовольствие Remember what a wet blanket he was last time? Please don’t invite him again. What’s the matter? — What is it? В чем дело? What’s the matter? What happened? which way the wind blows — what the real situation is какова реальная ситуация He knows which way the wind blows and always acts accordingly. white lie — unimportant lie невинная ложь A white lie is told to spare your feelings. word for word — in the same words дословно, дословный Tell me word for word what he said. would rather — prefer предпочитать I’d rather stay at home today.

Источник

It is inevitable that words change their meanings over time but it is still interesting to know the English words the meanings of which became very different from what they mean originally.

You might be surprised to know that the words you’ll find here are mostly words that you use regularly. It is a regular occurrence and the change of meaning could be narrowed or broadened. An example of this is the word ”hound.” Previously, a canine is traditionally called hound, while dog is used to indicate a canine that is fierce and big. The term ”dog” became the common term, which is broadening its meaning. The meaning of ”hound” became narrow as it now only refers to hunting dogs. Dogs of smaller breeds, especially, including Chihuahuas and toy dogs should never be called hounds.

Some of the narrowing and broadening of the meaning of words happened randomly. The question whether someone drinks refers to imbibing alcoholic drinks rather than all liquids. Previously, enjoying music means enjoying classical music, nothing else. When you say you enjoy reading today, it more or less means that the person is reading fiction instead of books on various subjects including history, science, nature and the like.

Intuitive and transformative shift

The changing of the meaning of words follows a mild transformative and intuitive direction. In the old days ”meat” referred to all items related to food, which is why ”candy” is called sweetmeat. Now meat solely pertain to flesh, which, while narrowed stayed within the sphere of food.

Some of the shift was lateral. Bird for example used to refer to a baby animal before it became the overall term for flying animals, which used to be called ”fugol.” The latter narrowed and changed to ”fowl” and now refers to birds raised in farms such as hens, geese, ducks and turkeys.

Distant shifts

The meanings of many English words today are very far from the original because of implications.

Audition

One of them is the word ”audition” that seems to have the root word that refers to ”audio.” Today, when you hear the term, what easily comes to mind is a person trying out for a film or play.

However, when ”audition” first came to be used, the word was used by doctors to mean that a patient’s hearing would be better once the ears are cleared of whatever is blocking the sound.

In 19th century England, the term for tryouts became ”hearings” because at that time trying out for plays means listening to a person reciting something, which writers turned into something fancier by using the word ”audition.”

The word stuck and used primarily to mean trying out for a performance while hearing became the term that refers to sound perception.

Commodity

Commodity now refers to staple products the quantity of which remains constant regardless of producers. The term is commonly used when referring to futures contracts that ensure uniformity in price even when the market fluctuates.

When the word was first used, it referred to comfort, for example, in accommodation, meaning indulging in personal comforts, such as enjoying the pleasure of staying in bed or spreading your body on a cozy sofa.

The current meaning is very distant for the original intent – from feeling comfortable to being products in the futures market, which is about financial contracts.

Fine

The word ”fine” came from the French word, ”fin” or end. Today, it has evolved to mean something that is ”the best,” ”the ultimate” or ”the top of the line.” Thus, initially fine, means either something of high quality or the end. The high quality meaning is what made it into the English language, which became associated with something delicate. It implies top quality as the item was produced with high precision.

However, there are other used for the word fine. When someone is asked how they are doing, the standard reply is he/she is fine. In this context, the word fine implies that the person is not hurt, is feeling great or in good health. The meaning extends to other things, such as the payment for a minor violation.

When you watch a French film, you are still likely see the word ”fin” at the end before the credits. But outside France, fine means something else.

Minority

The original meaning of the word ”minority” was a ”small portion” of something, which means that it was a technical term. However, today the word is generally used as a demographic term. When you say minority, the implication is that you refer to people of color. In the minds of many Americans, minority refers to Latino and Black people. So even if the Whites were outnumbered by Latinos or Blacks, they would never be referred to as minority because they do not have dark complexions.

Merry

Merry is a word the original meaning of which is very different from how it is used today. In the past, ”merry” meant ”short.” It is because something short or brief is pleasant. Now merry means joy, gaiety, full of merriment, fun, lively and so on. The English language already had a word ”short” in the early days, however, it meant ”sliced off.”

Merry had a long past as well. It started from the steppes in Ukraine where most of the languages in Europe originated. Merry came from the word ”mregh” that became ”brakhion” in Greece. It was a term used for the upper arm, as physically, the lower arm is longer than the upper arm. Brakhion entered the Latin language as ‘brakh” but ended as a pastry term, as in brachitella or bread that resembles folded arms. Old German adopted the term as brezitella that morphed into brezel in Middle High German, which is now known as pretzel.

In the French language, brach referred to shoulder straps that extended to mean the chemise worn by children. Brach evolved into brassiere which was shortened to ”bra.”

In a sense, pretzel and bra are the same as merry, although the evolution that happened gradually means that it would be impossible today to use the three words in a sentence that would make sense.

Awful and awesome

Both words came from ”awe,” which is an Old English word that originally meant dread, terror or fear. When used to refer to God, it meant respectful or reverential fear. Awesome and awful used to be synonyms, but in the 19th century however, awful became a term that is synonymous to the emotion’s negative aspect thus it usually refers to something very bad or something frightful. Awesome on the other hand became the term used to mean mind-boggling, stunning or marvelous, which were cited initially in a 1980 publication called Official Preppy Handbook.

Old dictionary with page open, showing side tabs

Opposite meaning

The meaning of words will continue to change as long as there are speakers of the language. Some of the meanings shift to become the opposite of the original while some become complimentary or otherwise.

Nice

From the Anglo-Norman language to classical Latin to English, the word ”nice” used to refer to someone ”ignorant” from the Latin word ”nescius.” Starting from the 1300s up to the 1600s the meaning was the same – ignorant, foolish or silly. But during the same period, nice took on different meanings, from being dissolute, wanton, cowardly, effeminate, lazy, intricate, sluggish, refined to elegant.

In the 16th century the meanings changed to sharp, attentive, meticulous. When the 18th century arrived, the meanings lost much of its prestige; it gained the meaning we use today, such as pleasant or agreeable.

Dinner

Dinner started from the French word ”disner” that originated from the Latin term, ”disjejunare” or breaking the fast. Thus it originally referred to the first meal you have for the day. Through the evolution of the word, it was used to refer to the day’s main meal, which is still used in some circles. For the fashionable and professional classes today, as mentioned in the Oxford English Dictionary, dinner now refers to the largest meal taken in the evening. The last meal served during the day is called supper, which is seldom used today. The current meaning is a light meal in the early evening if you had dinner in the middle of the day. You could also have supper before you go to bed.

Naughty

Naughty people in the 1300s were those who had naught or nothing. It meant they were either needy or poor. A millennium later, the meaning shifted to someone morally wicked or bad or someone who was worth nothing. So the meaning changed from having nothing to someone sexually provocative, promiscuous or licentious. But in the late 17th century other meanings were added to naughty. These are gentler terms, often used to refer to children who display misbehavior, disobedience or mischievousness.

Several more English words have changed meanings. Silly for example used to mean blessed or worthy before the meanings became vulnerable or weak. Today, it is mainly used to refer to someone foolish. Some are more difficult to comprehend, such as clue coming from the word ”clew” meaning a ball of yarn to being important pieces of evidence. Fathom used to mean, ”to encircle with your arm” whereas today it means understanding something after spending time to think about it.

It does not matter if the meanings of many English words continue to change. The human translators of Day Translations, Inc. will always use the most applicable words to accurately translate your documents. They are all native speakers and located around the world to serve your translation requirements quickly and efficiently. We serve clients 24/7, 365 days a year. So contact us for translation services anytime by calling us at 1-800-969-6853 or sending us an email at Contact us.

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Источник

Другие результаты

English — Russian

Russian — English

What Do You Call Someone Who Loves To Try New Things?

Adventurous

Uninhibited

Venturesome

Neophile

Audacious

Словосочетания

Автоматический перевод

Перевод по словам

Примеры

Примеры, ожидающие перевода

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

thing

Intuitive and transformative shift

Distant shifts

Audition

Commodity

Fine

Minority

Merry

Awful and awesome

Opposite meaning

Nice

Dinner

Naughty

English
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Russian

Russian
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English