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th0inkz April 9th 2009

This thread is for phrases and expressions that we come across. Everyone is welcome to put any phrases and expressions they don't understand.

Dear Clare,

I just come across this expression while watching a movie this morning.
"Lose your nerves"
Can you clear this for me? What I think this means is like getting nervous. Am I right?

And this expression too...
"Out of my league"
What does this one mean?
Thank you.

ThanhTran April 10th 2009

"Lose your nerves" means:
to lose self-confidence and become afraid about what one is doing.
"Out of my league" is:
not right for you

Clare April 10th 2009

Thanks! I'd also add that if someone is out of your league, they're better than you in some way, and you stand no chance competing with or for them.
--
Clare,
english-at-home.com

th0inkz April 10th 2009

Thanks Thanhtran and Miss Clare!
How about "off the mark"
I often hear it when watching NBA (basketball) when a player misses. What does this phrase exactly mean?
Thanks again.

Clare April 11th 2009

It means that he wasn't close to the target. You also say "off the mark" if someone says something that isn't right or that shows misunderstanding of something.
--
Clare,
english-at-home.com

th0inkz April 14th 2009

I get it. Thanks again Miss Clare!

Here's another one if you don't mind..
"I take it..." is this just a variation for "I get it"?

And.. this one.. "What's the catch?"
Thanks.

Clare April 16th 2009

I take it that.... (I understand that you mean...)

What's the catch? = What's the disadvantage / the negative side of this?
i.e. You can have a million pounds. What's the catch? Well, you have to live on your own for a year on a cold, deserted island...
--
Clare,
english-at-home.com

th0inkz April 16th 2009

Oh.. thanks again Miss Clare!

This is a lot of help.
I hope you don't get tired explaining things like this ;)

Thanks,
Jomar

Clare April 16th 2009

No - I never get tired of explaining! It's a pleasure to help you and others with questions about English!

Best wishes
Clare
--
Clare,
english-at-home.com

th0inkz April 20th 2009

Hi again Miss Clare.

I came across another expression and it sounds new to me.

It's "Mind how you go."

What does it mean and in what situations can I use it?

Thanks,
Jomar