Duration: 8-10 minutes
Level: int +
Language Focus: Idioms
Objective: Learning new colloquial expressions
There are many common expressions with animals in English. Below you will find six that we use very frequently.
BIRDS
1. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
What do you think that means?
Look at the example:
Eric, you should be happy with the house that you have and stop thinking about these mansions you see on TV. Remember, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.
✅ That’s right! This means that what we have is more valuable than double what we don’t have.
2. To kill two birds with one stone
What do you think that means?
Look at the example:
I’m going to go to the bank on the way to work to save gas. That way, I can kill two birds with one stone.
✅ That’s right! This means to achieve two things in one action.
CATS
1. Curiosity killed the cat
What do you think that means?
Look at the example:
You should be careful trying to listen to your boss’ conversations. Remember, curiosity killed the cat!
✅ That’s right! This is a warning about the dangers of investigation or experimentation.
2. To let the cat out of the bag
What do you think that means?
Look at the example:
Rebecca doesn’t know about the surprise party, so keep your mouth shut. Don’t let the cat out of the bag!
✅ That’s right! This means to reveal a secret.
DOGS
1. To go to the dogs
What do you think that means?
Look at the example:
After the bar changed owners, it really went to the dogs. You shouldn’t go there anymore. It’s disgusting.
✅ That’s right! This means that a place has deteriorated in value. It’s not as good as it was.
2. A person’s bark is worse than their bite
(bark = the sound a dog makes)
What do you think that means?
Look at the example:
Don’t be afraid of Richard. He won’t actually do anything. His bark is worse than his bite.
✅ That’s right! This means that his words are worse than his actions.
