Know Your English- 14 - oct- 13

Introduction :

As we Know the usage of Idioms and Phrases in language adds power and beauty to our expression. Idioms and Phrases are the expressions peculiar to a language. In English, they are very peculiar and play very important part. My blog  will be useful for the lover of English.

Idiom of the day : Put your foot in your mouth

Meaning: If you put your foot in your mouth, you say or do the wrong thing and usually make matter worse.

For example: I really put my foot in my mouth when i asked her how her husband was, I forgot that He died last year.

Phrasal verb of the day : Whip up

Meaning: To create strong feelings in other people.

For example: She criticized the media for whipping up prejudice against drug users.

Proverb of the day : Slow and steady wins the race

 Meaning: Speed alone cannot help one win long distance race. one must be steady and slow to avoid early exhaustion. One can gain speed towards the end and ultimately win the race.

Illustration: Once upon a time, a hare and a tortoise agreed to run a long distance race. The hare was quite confident of his skill in running fast. The tortoise was sure of his slow foot. All the animals gathered to watch the unequall contest. Everyone believed that the hare would win. But they were in for a surprise. The hare which ran very fast initially got a little tired. He took a nap under a shadow tree. Soon he started snoring. The tortoise unmindful of the physical ability of the hare, walked his way to victory.

Significance: One need not jump to the conclusion that speed of action will lead to success. steady progress can result in success.

Conclusion: Many little stokes can fell even a giant. So also slow and steady wins the race.

Common Errors in English

Sentence:

•  Either Ramesh or I are to do this work. (Incorrect)
• Either Ramesh or I am to do this work. (Correct)

Explanation: If two subjects are joined by 'either or', 'neither nor', the verb agrees with the subject that is near.

English Blues

  What is the difference between 'Please come' and 'Please do come'?

 In both cases , we are inviting a person to an event. 'Please come' is a straightforward request; it is something that we all say in order to sound polite. The word 'do' is sometimes included to add emphasis to a request; in this case, you genuinely want or very strongly feel that the person to be present at the event. We are urging him to come. 

For example: Please take/do take another sweet.