Lesson 5 -- Ted Goes Out For the Evening

 

Speak English Like an American -- Lesson 5

Ted leaves to go visit his girl friend Amber. Ted mother Susan says she doesn’t really like Amber. She wishes him a good time anyway.

Ted:     See you later, mom.

Susan:  Where are you going, Ted?

Ted:     I told Amber I’d drop by.

Susan:  What are you two going to do?

Ted:     Maybe go to the movies or to a party. Our plans are still up in the air.

Susan:  Why don’t you invite her over here?

Ted:     I don’t want to hang around here. Dad is really down in the dumps.

Susan:  Is Amber the girl with the nose ring and the purple hair?

Ted:     Yeah, I am crazy about her.

Susan:  Don’t take this the wrong way. But she is not exactly my cup of tea.

Ted:     Take it easy, mom. We are not about to get married. We just enjoy

            hanging out together.

Susan:  I guess there is no accounting for taste. Have a good time.

Ted:     Don’t worry. We will have a blast!

Susan:  (under her breath) That’s what I’m afraid of!

Idioms,

(to be) crazy about – to like very much
Cup of tea – the type of person or thing that one generally likes
(to be) down in the dumps – to feel sad; to be depressed
(to) drop by – to pay a short; often unannounced visit
(to) hang around – to spend time idly; to linger
(to) hang out – to spend time ( often doing nothing)
(to) have a blast (slang) – to enjoy oneself very much
(to) have a good time – to enjoy oneself
Take it easy – relax ; don’t worry
(to) take something the wrong way – to take offense
Note: This expression is often used in the negative form:”Don’t take this wrong way, But …”

There’s no accounting for taste – it’s impossible to explain
Under one’s breath – quietly; in a whisper
(to be) up in the air – not yet determined ; uncertain