All Ears English Podcast AEE: Learning English Is Not Like Pulling Teeth
29 snips
Jan 3, 2026 Dive into a lively discussion about idioms, focusing on the phrase 'it's like pulling teeth.' Discover its origins and how it's used in everyday life, from kid conversations to challenging shopping experiences. The hosts share personal anecdotes, exploring the struggles behind common tasks. Learn related expressions like 'herding cats' and engage in fun role-plays to bring these idioms to life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of connection over perfection in language learning.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Dentist Visit Sets Up The Idiom
- Lindsay recently went to the dentist and avoids extractions, which she mentions to introduce the idiom.
- She uses the dentist story to connect the literal image to the idiom's meaning.
Common Meaning Of "It's Like Pulling Teeth"
- "It's like pulling teeth" means something is very difficult to do or get someone to do.
- The phrase communicates pain or resistance and is commonly used to describe effortful tasks.
Idioms Can Outlive Their Literal Logic
- The hosts debate whether the idiom reflects the dentist's or patient's perspective and note that language often outlives literal accuracy.
- Michelle's dentist-husband questions the target of the expression, showing how idioms can be reinterpreted.