10 Informal Slang to Know in English

The Key to Casual Communication

In modern informal communication, it's common to use slang and abbreviations as a way to save time and space while conveying a sense of informality. 

English speakers have developed a number of slang terms and abbreviations that are commonly used in text messages, social media posts, and casual conversations. 

These terms may seem confusing or nonsensical to non-native speakers or older generations, but they have become a standard part of modern English communication.

Here are ten of the most commonly used abbreviations and slang terms in informal English communication:

Do You Mind your Ps and Qs?

The Curious Origins and Meaning of "Mind Your Ps and Qs"

Do you mind your Ps and Qs? This is a question that may leave many non-native speakers of the English language puzzled. For those unfamiliar with this idiom, it can be confusing and difficult to understand its meaning. However, it is a saying that is commonly used in British English and has a fascinating history behind it.

The origin of "mind your Ps and Qs" is uncertain, but there are several theories. One explanation suggests that it comes from the printing industry in the 16th century, where letters were set by hand and in reverse on a printing plate. The letters "p" and "q" are very similar in shape and easy to confuse, so printers would remind their apprentices to "mind their Ps and Qs" to avoid making costly mistakes.

Have you ever asked yourself?

10 Paradoxical Questions That Will Make You Think

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where something seems odd or contradictory, and you can't help but wonder why? We have all encountered such situations in our lives, and these ten thought-provoking questions are sure to leave you pondering over them for a while.

Why when the stars are out, they can be seen, but when the lights are out, they cannot be seen?

This question may seem puzzling at first, but it all comes down to the level of contrast. The stars shine in a dark sky, making them visible to the naked eye. When the lights go out, the contrast disappears, making it difficult to see anything in the dark.

Kings, Queens, and Proverbs

Kings, Queens, and Proverbs: A Reflection on the Power of Royalty

Royalty has been a prominent feature of human history for centuries, with kings and queens holding a position of power and authority over their subjects. Proverbs about kings and queens reflect the beliefs and attitudes of different cultures towards royalty. From Shakespeare's "Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown" to the hymn "Crown him with many crowns," these proverbs demonstrate the challenges and complexities of being a monarch.

"Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown" is a famous proverb from Shakespeare's play, Henry IV. This proverb means that being a king or queen is a difficult and stressful job. The weight of responsibility and the constant pressure to lead can take a toll on a monarch. The proverb serves as a reminder that being a leader comes with significant challenges.

The Truth Behind Inaccurately Named Items

When Words Don't Mean What You Think They Do

We often use words and phrases that we assume to be accurate without considering their origin or meaning. Sometimes, our assumptions can be way off base, leading to misconceptions and confusion. In this blog post, we'll explore ten examples of inaccurately named items, including foods and everyday objects, and their true origins.

Did you know that not everything is what it seems? Sometimes the things we call by certain names are actually completely different than what we would expect. Let's take a closer look at some surprising truths.

Pineapple is neither an apple nor does it grow on pine trees.

French fries are not actually of French origin; they are believed to have originated in Belgium.

Three Is the Magic Number

From fairy tales to popular sayings, it's a number that pops up time and time again.

"Three is the Magic Number" is a popular phrase that has been used in literature, music, and pop culture. The concept of "three" has been used throughout history to signify balance, harmony, and completion. In this blog post, we will explore the meaning behind ten popular phrases that feature the number "three".

1. Three Score and Ten: This phrase refers to the biblical lifespan of 70 years. It is often used to refer to an individual's age.

2. Three Wise Monkeys: This phrase is based on a Japanese proverb and represents the concept of "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil".

3. Three Monkeys Syndrome: This phrase refers to the tendency of people to ignore or avoid unpleasant truths, often using the same concept as the three wise monkeys.

Two Is Better Than One

Navigating the Nuances of English Idiomatic Expressions Involving Two

Language is a fascinating aspect of human culture, and idiomatic expressions are a great way to learn more about the nuances of a language. In English, there are many idiomatic expressions that use the number two, and in this blog post, we will explore the meaning and usage of ten of these phrases. 

Whether you're a native English speaker or are learning the language as a second language, understanding these phrases can help you communicate more effectively and gain a deeper appreciation for the richness of the English language.

Two for the price of one: This phrase is often used to describe a deal or offer where you can buy two items for the price of one. It can also be used more generally to describe a situation where you get more than you expected or paid for.

10 Phrases Using the Mighty "Two"

The Power of 'Two': How a Single Word Shapes Our Language and Communication

Have you ever stopped to think about how a single word can have such a big impact on language? In the English language, one such word is "two." This small but mighty word is used in a variety of phrases and expressions, each with its own unique meaning and power.

In our latest video on the English Phrase Collection channel, we explore ten common phrases using the word "two." From everyday idioms to timeless sayings, each example demonstrates the versatility and impact of this powerful word.

Let's take a closer look at each phrase:

Two left feet - This phrase is used to describe someone who is clumsy or awkward on their feet.

10 Top Sayings Only Moms Can Pull Off

These mom sayings will take you back to your childhood!

Are you a parent or you remember yourself being a child? If so, you must be familiar with the classic mom sayings that are repeated over and over again throughout the years. These phrases are meant to guide, teach, and sometimes scold children, but they also carry messages of love and protection that only a parent can provide.

In a recent video on our YouTube channel "English Phrase Collection", we took a moment to reflect on some of these timeless mom sayings and the memories they evoke. From funny to serious, these sayings have stood the test of time and are still being used by parents everywhere.

"Money doesn’t grow on trees" is a classic mom saying that reminds children that money is not infinite and that they cannot have everything they want. It's a way of teaching them the value of money and the importance of budgeting and saving.

Top 10 Most Memorable Mom Sayings

How many of these classic mom sayings do you still use on your own kids?

As children, we've all heard our mothers say things that may have seemed silly or pointless at the time. But as we grow older, we realize the profound wisdom behind those words. In this blog post, we're going to take a closer look at some of the classic phrases that our mothers used to say to us and explore the lessons behind them.

"If someone asked you to jump off a cliff, would you?"

This classic mom saying is meant to discourage blindly following others. It's important to think for ourselves and make our own decisions, even if it means going against the crowd.

"Do you think I like the sound of my own voice?"

This phrase is often used by moms when they feel like they're not being listened to. It's a reminder to pay attention and show respect to others when they're speaking.

Top 10 Timeless Sayings From Moms

Find out what these classic mom sayings really mean

Mothers have a way of saying things that stick with us for the rest of our lives. We may not understand the meaning of these phrases at first, but as we grow up and experience the world, we come to realise just how wise and insightful our mothers were. These sayings may have seemed like an annoyance to us at the time, but they were valuable lessons that have helped shape us into the people we are today.

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you”

This phrase is often used when a mother is trying to prevent her child from making a mistake that they may regret later on. Mothers have a natural instinct to protect their children and want to spare them from any unnecessary pain or suffering. This phrase is a gentle reminder that mothers know best and that their advice should be taken seriously.

Top 10 Sayings Every Mom Uses

How many of these classic mom sayings do you use on your own kids?

Growing up, many of us heard our mothers repeat certain phrases so often that they became part of our everyday language. Some of these sayings were meant to encourage us, some were warnings, and some were simply statements of fact. But no matter what their purpose, these sayings stuck with us and became part of our memories of growing up. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at 10 classic mom sayings that we all remember.

"Don't make me have to get up and come over there".

This is the classic warning that every kid has heard at some point. It usually means that you're on thin ice and your mom is about to lose her patience. It's a gentle reminder that you need to behave yourself, or else face the consequences.

The Phonetic Alphabet

The Phonetic Alphabet: Its Origin, Use, and Importance

If you've ever had to spell out a name or word over the phone or radio, you know how frustrating it can be to be misunderstood. 

The phonetic alphabet is an essential tool for clear and precise communication in many fields, including aviation, military, emergency services, and telecommunications.

Origin of the Phonetic Alphabet

The phonetic alphabet was first developed in the 1920s by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a way for pilots and air traffic controllers to communicate over radio transmissions. The original version of the phonetic alphabet had different words for some of the letters, but in the 1940s, the United States and NATO adopted a modified version of the phonetic alphabet that is still in use today.

The Proof of the Pudding Is in the Eating

Why 'The Proof of the Pudding is in the Eating' Proverb Still Rings True Today

When we say "the proof of the pudding is in the eating," we mean that the true value or quality of something can only be determined by experiencing it first hand. But where did this strange-sounding proverb come from, and why is it still in use today?

Origin of the Proverb

The origins of this proverb can be traced back to medieval England, where "pudding" referred to a type of sausage made from animal organs and intestines mixed with meat, spices, and other ingredients. These sausages were often boiled or steamed in a casing made of animal stomachs or intestines.

Back then, it was common for cooks to test the quality of the pudding by cutting open the casing and tasting the contents before serving it to guests. This was especially important since the ingredients and spices used in the pudding could vary greatly, depending on what was available or affordable at the time.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

The Science Behind the Proverb: Exploring the Relationship between Rainfall and Flowering in the UK

'April showers bring May flowers' is a popular British proverb that many of us have heard at some point in our lives. It is a saying that is often used to describe the weather during the spring season, and it suggests that the rainy days in April are necessary for the growth and blooming of flowers in May. But where did this saying originate, and what is its true meaning? Let's explore the history and significance of this proverb.

Origin of the proverb

The origins of April showers bring May flowers are not entirely clear. Some sources suggest that it may have originated in the United States, while others point to a possible connection with Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales. In the poem, Chaucer writes: "Whan that Aprill with his shoures soote / The droghte of March hath perced to the roote." This line is often interpreted as a reference to the idea that April rains are necessary for the growth of flowers in May.

Keep Calm and Carry On

The Power of Positive Affirmations: "Keep Calm and Carry On"

When life throws you a curveball, what's the best way to handle it? According to the popular British proverb, the answer is simple: "Keep calm and carry on."

This phrase has become so ubiquitous that it's been printed on everything from t-shirts to tea towels, and even has its own meme-worthy variations like "Keep calm and drink tea" or "Keep calm and eat cake".

But what does it really mean to "keep calm and carry on"? Well, it's like that famous quote from The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: "Don't panic." Easier said than done, right?

Actions Speak Louder Than Words

Let Your Actions Speak: How the English Proverb Can Inspire Positive Change

The proverb "Actions speak louder than words" has been around for centuries, with the first recorded use of a similar phrase dating back to the 1600s. However, it is commonly attributed to the English cleric and writer John Selden, who lived in the 17th century.

Meaning:

The proverb suggests that what people do is more important than what they say. It emphasises the idea that actions are a better indicator of a person's true intentions and character than mere words. The proverb can be interpreted in various ways, but the most common understanding is that people's actions are a more reliable reflection of their thoughts and beliefs than their spoken words.

Proverb 'Honesty Is the Best Policy'

Honesty is the Best Policy: The Meaning Behind the British Proverb

The proverb "Honesty is the best policy" is a well-known saying in the English language. It has been passed down through generations, and is still frequently used today. In this post, we will explore the origin, meaning, and examples of this popular British proverb.

Origin of the Proverb

The origins of "Honesty is the best policy" can be traced back to the late 16th century, when it first appeared in a collection of English proverbs. It is believed to have been coined by Sir Edwin Sandys, an English statesman and member of Parliament, who included the proverb in his collection of proverbs titled "Paraphrase upon the Psalms of David" in 1599.

Proverb 'Where There's Muck, There's Brass'

Where There's Muck, There's Brass: The Meaning Behind the British Proverb

The British are known for their quirky idioms and sayings, and one of them is "Where there's muck, there's brass". But what does this proverb mean, and where did it come from? In this post, we'll explore the origin, meaning, and examples of this British saying.

Origin of the Proverb

The phrase "Where there's muck, there's brass" is believed to have originated in the industrial North of England during the 19th century. At that time, many towns and cities were heavily industrialised, and the manufacturing and production of goods created a lot of waste and pollution. The phrase was a reminder that even though working with dirt and grime may not be pleasant, it could still lead to financial gain.

Proverb 'Easy Come, Easy Go'

Easy come, easy go : The Truth Behind the Proverb "Easy Come, Easy Go"

The proverb "Easy come, easy go" is a simple phrase with a profound meaning that can be applied to various aspects of life. It is often used to describe situations where something is obtained quickly and easily but is lost just as easily.

At first glance, it may seem like a pessimistic view of life, but when you delve deeper, it can serve as a reminder to value and appreciate what we have and to work hard to maintain it. Let's explore this proverb and its meaning.

The meaning behind the proverb

The phrase "easy come, easy go" means that anything that is obtained without effort is often lost or squandered just as quickly. It can refer to material possessions, money, relationships, or even success. In essence, it is a warning to not take things for granted and to understand the value of hard work and persistence.

All Cats Love Fish, but Fear to Wet Their Paws

The Truth About Cats and Water: Exploring the Saying 'All Cats Love Fish, But Fear to Wet Their Paws'

Have you ever wondered why cats seem to hate water so much? Or why they're so cautious when it comes to trying new things? 

If you've spent any time in the UK or with British people, you may have heard the proverb "All cats love fish, but fear to wet their paws". This saying has been passed down through generations and has become a well-known British idiom. But what does it mean, and where did it come from?

Origin of the Proverb

The origin of this proverb is unclear, but it is believed to be of ancient origin. Some people believe that it dates back to ancient Egypt, where cats were revered and considered sacred animals. Others speculate that it may have originated in China, where cats have been domesticated for thousands of years.

5 Dynamic Spring Idioms

The Power of Springs: The Importance of Springs in Everyday Life

Spring is a season of new beginnings and growth, and it's a great time to learn some English idioms that use the word "spring." In this post, we'll explore five idioms and provide examples of how to use them in everyday conversation.

Spring to mind

This idiom refers to something that comes to your mind quickly and easily, usually in response to a particular situation or question. It's often used when you want to express that something is obvious or well-known.

Example: "When I think of my favourite childhood memories, my grandmother's homemade chocolate chip cookies always spring to mind."

5 Popular Spring Idioms

Spring Fever: Embracing the Energy of the Season

Spring is a season of new beginnings, growth, and energy. It's also a great time to learn some English idioms that are related to this time of year. In this post, we'll explore five idioms that use the word "spring" and provide examples of how to use them in everyday conversation.

Spring feverish

This idiom refers to a feeling of excitement and restlessness that often occurs in the springtime. It's the kind of feeling that makes you want to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. You might feel this way if you've been cooped up inside all winter and are eager to enjoy the fresh air and warmer temperatures.

Example: "After being stuck inside all winter, I have a serious case of spring feverish. I can't wait to go for a picnic in the park."