Summary
Highlights
Introduction to American Idioms Part 8300:00:00
This video is the 83rd part of the American Idiom series, presenting five new idioms from #411 to #415. The format includes guessing the meaning, then revealing the answer with an additional example. It's recommended to pause the video to think about the answers.
Idiom #411: Go Out On A Limb00:00:49
The idiom 'go out on a limb' means to be in a dangerous position. An example is, 'I don't want to go out on a limb but I think I can afford a new car even though I'm not making a lot of money right now.' Another example is a mayor criticizing his own party members, which puts him in a dangerous position.
Idiom #412: To Catch Or Be Caught Flat-Footed00:02:25
To 'catch or be caught flat-footed' means to be caught unprepared or unaware of something. For instance, police catching bank robbers 'flat-footed' with prior information. Another example is a wife being 'caught flat-footed' when an unexpected number of guests arrive at a party.
Idiom #413: Play One's Cards Right00:04:04
The idiom 'play one's cards right' means to do things in a well-planned and intelligent way. For example, 'If Teddy plays his cards right, he has a good chance of getting that promotion.' This also applies to selling a car intelligently to maximize profit.
Idiom #414: When Or After The Dust Settles00:05:35
'When or after the dust settles' refers to when things return to normal. An example is waiting for things to calm down at work before asking for a raise. Another instance is a president addressing the nation after the election when things have stabilized.
Idiom #415: A Hot Hand00:07:22
To have 'a hot hand' signifies a continuous period of luck or success. For example, someone without much stock market experience having 'a hot hand' and making a lot of money. However, a 'hot hand' in gambling often doesn't last, as seen in an example where winnings are quickly lost.