Tuesday, July 7, 2015

Bells and Whistles

Idiom: Bells and Whistles


Example 1:

Gerry: Congratulations, Kiki! I heard you passed the driver’s test!

 Kiki: Yes, I’m so happy. It took me three tries, but I finally have a driver’s license.

Gerry: So have you thought about buying a car?

 Kiki: Of course! My dad said he would help me, so we have been looking for cars together. It’s been a little difficult because he has a completely different idea about what kind of car I should buy.

Gerry: What do you mean?

Kiki: Well, I want a cute car with all the bells and whistles! Then I can drive around the town in style. But my dad wants me to start with something boring and basic.

Gerry: Actually, it’s probably better to just get a basic car at first without the bells and whistles. It’s cheaper and more practical.

Kiki: But it’s my first car!


Example 2:

Jackie: What’s the matter? You look upset!

Tommy: My computer crashed and I don’t think I’ll be able to repair it. I really can’t afford to buy a new computer right now!

Jackie: Don’t worry. Computers are not that expensive, especially if you buy a computer without all the bells and whistles. The more extras you add, the more expensive it will be.

Tommy: I guess you are right, but I really do a lot of things on the computer in addition to my work. I especially like gaming and you need a strong computer for that, one that has all the bells and whistles.

Jackie: Well, maybe you will just have to make a sacrifice for now. Get a basic computer and add the extras later when you can afford it.



Meaning: Extra; the things that a device or machine has or does that are not necessary, but that make it more exciting.

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