Page 53 - Speak English Like an American

Ted: We’re going to take the music world by storm and
make lots of money.

Susan: That sounds like a pipe dream. Aren’t high school rock
bands a dime a dozen?

Ted: Yeah, but we’re different. With my guitar playing and
Amber’s beautiful voice, we’re sure to make a splash!

Susan: Well, we’re going through hard times. You’re going to
have to work for that $1,000.

Ted: How?

Susan: Youcan bake cookies.

Ted: I bet Mrs. Clapton never made Eric** bake cookies, but
I guess those are the breaks.

* Donald Trump is a famous American millionaire who made his money in
real estate. Ivana is his ex-wife.

** Eric Clapton is a very popular guitarist.

eal

IDIOMS — LESSON 8

(to) beat around the bush — to talk around the subject; to
avoid getting to the point
ExampLe |: Kara beat around the bush for an hour, then finally told us
she needed a ride to Kennedy Airport.
EXampLe 2: If you want something, tell me. Don’t beat around the bush!

dime a dozen — so plentiful as to be nothing special; common
EXAMPLE 1: Reality TV shows are a dime a dozen these days.
EXAMPLE 2: There are so many Starbucks coffee shops in Manhattan,
Note: This expression comes from the fact that a “dime” is worth only
they’re a dime a dozen.

ten cents (very little value).

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