Page 125 - Speak English Like an American

taken aback — surprised (almost always in a negative sense)
EXAMPLE 1; Nicole was taken aback when her friend Rosa told her she
no longer wanted to hang out with her.
Exampte 2: | was taken aback when my friend asked me if she could
borrow my toothbrush because she forgot hers at home.

(to) throw the book at someone — to punish or chide severely
Examece 1: When Ted failed his chemistry test the second time, his
teacher really threw the book at him.

EXAMPLE 2: The judge threw the book at Matt for stealing a football
from the store. He'll be going to jail for six months.

tS, PRACTICE THE IDIOMS

Choose the best substitute for the phrase in bold:

1) After Nicole lost the election, she started ranting and raving.
a) complaining loudly
b) speaking quietly
c) asking many questions

2) When a stranger approached me on the bus and asked to bor-
row my cell phone, I was taken aback.
a) disappointed
b) surprised
c) delighted

3) When George showed up for work five minutes late, his
boss Beth threatened to fire him. Beth is known for blowing
things out of proportion.
a) making a big deal out of small things
b) lying
c) creating extra work for someone

4) My apartment is always messy. I need to get my act together
and start cleaning it once a week.
a) start pretending
b) gather a group of people together
c) get organized

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