Vocab Stories with English Learning for Curious Minds ✌️ #325
Feb 19, 2024
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Join the hosts as they discuss vocabulary, English learning experiences in Malta, preparing for a move to Sweden, taking risks, sibling interactions, and navigating language learning challenges in a fun and insightful way
Being up to scratch involves meeting expected standards, highlighted by Alistair's linguistic preparation for moving to Sweden.
Throwing caution to the wind signifies taking bold risks, as seen in Alistair and Martin's daring life choices.
To fall by the wayside reflects failure or neglect, demonstrated through Alistair's language study shifts and Martin's academic reflections.
Deep dives
Striving to Meet Expectations
When discussing the concept of being up to scratch, it refers to meeting the expected standards or levels of something. Alistair shared his journey of preparing his Swedish language skills for his upcoming move to Sweden, emphasizing the importance of being adequately prepared linguistically before relocating. Additionally, Martin reflected on his constant concern about the quality of his podcasts, always aiming and sometimes doubting if they are up to scratch.
Taking Bold Risks
Throwing caution to the wind involves acting without considering potential risks or consequences, taking bold and unrestrained approaches often involving risk or uncertainty. Alistair highlighted his tendency to embrace new challenges like moving to different countries without fully foreseeing all outcomes. Similarly, Martin cited his experience of deciding to move back to the UK with no definitive plan or expectation, illustrating how individuals sometimes opt for daring choices.
Neglecting Prior Commitments
To fall by the wayside means to fail or decline, to be abandoned or neglected, signifying the inability to keep up or succeed in tasks. Alistair's anecdote of sidestepping his French and Italian language studies after delving into Mandarin showcases how shifting priorities can lead to neglecting previous endeavors. In parallel, Martin reflected on the significant dropout rates experienced in university, where numerous individuals abandon their educational pursuits, unable to cope with the demands.
Overextending Capabilities
When individuals bite off more than they can chew, it implies attempting tasks or responsibilities that surpass their abilities or capacity. Both Alistair and Martin concurred on the recurring theme of exceeding their limits in daily endeavors, juggling multiple commitments and responsibilities. Alistair highlighted his perpetual struggle in planning and accomplishing tasks within a constrained schedule, mirroring Martin's sentiments of balancing his podcast, familial obligations, and new professional role, all while feeling stretched to the limits.
Closing Thoughts on Vocabulary and Reflections
The podcast episode delved into meaningful vocabulary terms like up to scratch, throw caution to the wind, to fall by the wayside, and bite off more than you can chew, offering insights into the challenges individuals face when navigating life's uncertainties. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Alistair and Martin exemplified the real-life implications of these idiomatic expressions, showcasing the complexities of decision-making, adaptability, and the pursuit of personal growth amidst adversity.
We are back with another vocab story pod and lots of RnR Stories shared today, so don't miss it! Get the headphones on, sit back and just keeeeep on ROCKin', baby! 👊
Remember if you have difficulty understanding any of this episode, check out my online course Jungle Listening. The only course on the market that breaks down fast spoken "Jungle" English and turns it into something simple and learnable so that you can understand native speakers with ease.
