As the temperatures rise and summer is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to introduce your students to some fun and seasonal English phrases. These phrases not only add a touch of summer fun to their vocabulary but also help them understand cultural nuances. Let’s dive into four popular summer phrases and their meanings:
Beat the heat!
The phrase “Beat the heat!” is perfect for those scorching summer days. It means to find ways to cool down and stay comfortable despite the high temperatures. Whether it’s enjoying a cold drink, swimming in a pool, or staying indoors with the air conditioning, “beating the heat” is essential for surviving the summer.
Example Sentence:
- To beat the heat, we spent the afternoon at the beach.
Dog Days of Summer
“Dog Days of Summer” refers to the hottest and most oppressive days of the summer, typically occurring in July and August. The phrase has ancient origins, relating to the period when the star Sirius, also known as the Dog Star, rises with the sun.
Example Sentence:
- During the dog days of summer, it’s best to stay indoors and stay hydrated.
Cool as a cucumber
“Cool as a cucumber” is a fun phrase that describes someone who remains calm and composed, even in stressful situations. Cucumbers are known for their refreshing coolness, making this phrase a perfect metaphor for a person who stays unflustered under pressure.
Example Sentence:
- Even during the hectic summer festival, she remained cool as a cucumber.
Dive into the deep end
The phrase “Dive into the deep end” has both a literal and figurative meaning. Literally, it means to jump into the deep part of a swimming pool. Figuratively, it means to take on a challenge or new experience without hesitation, even if it seems daunting at first.
Example Sentence:
- He decided to dive into the deep end and start his own business this summer.
These fun summer phrases are great additions to your students’ vocabulary, helping them express themselves more vividly and understand the cultural context of the English language. Encourage your students to use these phrases in their daily conversations and see how they can add a splash of summer fun to their language learning.
Now, Let’s try it!