To Cut a Rug (used as a verb)

Idiom: to cut a rug; used as a verb

First Example:

Brie: I saw you dancing with Deb. You guys really cut a rug.

Aj: Yeah, we were having a blast.

Brie: I didn't realize you were such a great dancer.

Aj: Neither did I! I think Deb is the great dancer, and she just made me look good!

Meaning: The expression "cut a rug" means to dance really well, usually in a very energetic way.  The expression was most popular in the 1920s, although it is still sometimes used to this day.

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For the Birds

Context #1 – Roommates watching TV at home

Vanessa: This new TV show was supposed to be so good, but it's really boring and confusing. I have no idea what's going on.

Brad: Yes, this show is definitely for the birds. Why don't we change the channel?

Vanessa: I agree. Even reruns of old shows are better than this!

Context #2 – Two friends at a party

Sami:  Hey, Petra! How are you?

Petra: OK, I guess. I hardly know anyone here.

Sami: Yeah, me too. I thought Brian invited a bunch of our friends?

Petra: I don't see anyone. Plus, these snacks suck. A few carrot sticks and sparkling water? Seriously? This isn't supposed to be a health club, it's a party!

Sami: I know. And this live band is terrible. They are just making noise, not music.

Petra: You know what? This party is for the birds. Let's get out of here and go some place fun!

Sami: Great idea! Let's go.

Click to listen to the idiom now

Meaning: “For the birds” means that something is worthless or undesirable. In Context 1, the new TV show is terrible and not even worth watching, so they decide to change the channel. In Context 2, the party doesn't have good food, music, or people they know, so it is no good. Petra and Sami finally decide to leave.

Check out the following video that is literally "For the Birds!"

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Rain or Shine

Idiom: Rain or Shine

Example 1: I have been training for the Los Angeles Marathon for 6 months and the race is coming up in a couple of weeks. I'm prepared for the run, but I'm nervous because the weather report shows rain for marathon day! It's such a big event with a lot of preparation by the city so it will happen come rain or shine. I really hope we have nice weather that day. Running in the rain would be dreadful.

Example 2: 

Maggie: Hi Jessica! How are you? 

Jessica: Hi! I'm great, thanks! I'm pretty excited for my wedding this weekend!

M: Wow that is exciting! I hope the weather stays clear and sunny for your big day.

J: I hope so, too. but I'm not worried! I know everything will be perfect rain or shine!

Meaning: (come) rain or shine = no matter what the weather or situation (usually weather). In Example 1, the Los Angeles Marathon will not be cancelled if it rains on that day. In Example 2, Jessica says she expects everything will be fine even if it rains. 

This expression can be used with come without changing the meaning. Example: We will be there come rain or shine. = We will be there rain or shine.

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To be on cloud nine

Idiom: to be on cloud nine

Meaning: To be very content, happy, and in an excellent mood

Example:

Iain: Jennifer has been on cloud nine all day.

Mary: I know! It's because she got engaged last night.

Iain: Ah!! That makes sense now.

For more information, please visit www.languagesystems.edu