American English is full of quirky phrases that make perfect sense to locals but leave non-Americans scratching their heads. These expressions, often rooted in history, culture, or humor, reflect the unique personality of the United States. If you’ve ever tried to explain phrases like “spill the beans” or “the whole nine yards” to someone from another country, you know how tricky it can be.
Here are some confusing US phrases that tend to baffle non-Americans – and why they’re so commonly used.
“Piece of cake”
Americans use “piece of cake” to describe something that’s easy or effortless, but for non-Americans, the connection isn’t always clear. Why is something simple compared to cake?
The phrase likely originated from the idea that eating cake is pleasurable and requires little effort. It makes sense once explained to outsiders wondering how dessert fits into the conversation.
“Break a leg”
This phrase, commonly said to performers before going on stage, sounds like a wish for bad luck. In reality, it’s meant as a way to encourage success. The origin is unclear, but some believe it comes from theater superstitions where saying “good luck” is thought to bring the opposite. It’s a peculiar way of expressing support that often needs a quick explanation.
“Spill the beans”
To “spill the beans” means to reveal a secret, but the literal image it creates leaves many non-Americans scratching their heads. The phrase is thought to have originated in ancient Greece, where beans were used to cast votes and spilling them could reveal results prematurely.
“The whole nine yards”
When Americans say they’re giving “the whole nine yards,” they mean they’re giving maximum effort. Non-Americans often wonder what exactly nine yards refers to. The origin of this phrase is debated, with theories ranging from WWII ammunition belts to Scottish kilts. Despite its unclear history, it’s a commonly used phrase that leaves outsiders puzzled.
“Bite the bullet”
“Bite the bullet” means to endure something difficult or unpleasant. Its origins stem from soldiers biting on bullets to cope with pain during battlefield surgeries before anesthesia existed. For non-Americans, understanding its historical roots is key to grasping this stoic saying.
“Under the weather”
Americans use “under the weather” to describe feeling unwell, but non-Americans might wonder what weather has to do with illness. The phrase came from maritime traditions, where sailors feeling sick would rest below deck, away from harsh weather. Without this context, it’s an odd way to express feeling out of sorts.
“Kick the bucket”
This euphemism for dying baffles non-Americans because it’s both morbid and oddly specific. The phrase’s origin probably stems from 18th-century practices involving hanging or slaughtering animals. While it’s a commonly understood term in the US, it often requires explanation elsewhere.
“Burning the midnight oil”
To “burn the midnight oil” is an antiquated phrase that means to stay up late working at a time when people used oil lamps for illumination after dark. Non-Americans might find the imagery charming but need clarification to understand its connection to modern productivity.
“Cost an arm and a leg”
This phrase describes something outrageously expensive, but the dramatic imagery can confuse non-Americans. Its origins are murky, but it likely stems from the high value placed on physical well-being. Explaining this phrase often leads to chuckles over its hyperbolic nature.
“Hit the hay”
Americans say “hit the hay” when they’re ready for bed, but the phrase leaves the rest of the world curious about the connection to sleep. Its origins date back to when mattresses were stuffed with hay, making the phrase a nod to older times. While the expression is endearing, it sounds odd to someone unfamiliar with it.
“Throw in the towel”
To “throw in the towel” means to give up, but non-Americans might wonder about the phrase’s origin. It comes from boxing, where throwing a towel into the ring signals surrender. While it’s a common expression in the US, its literal meaning often requires some explanation for others.
“Chew the fat”
This phrase means to have a casual, friendly conversation, but its literal interpretation is baffling. It might originate from sailors chewing on tough salt pork during long voyages, using the time to chat. Non-Americans might find the phrase amusing but need the backstory to make sense of it.
“Cut to the chase”
When someone says “cut to the chase,” they mean to get to the point, but the phrase can leave non-Americans puzzled. It originates from the early days of cinema, where action scenes (chases) were the most anticipated parts of a movie. Again, once the meaning is explained, it all makes sense.
“Let the cat out of the bag”
To “let the cat out of the bag” means to reveal a secret, but the phrase conjures a strange mental image. Its origins probably trace back to a market scam where sellers substituted a cat for a pig in a sack. Non-Americans often need a history lesson to understand this peculiar saying.
“Take a rain check”
When Americans say “take a rain check,” they mean postponing an invitation or plan, but the phrase’s literal meaning can confuse outsiders. It originates from baseball, where tickets could be reissued for a game postponed due to rain. Without the sports reference, it might sound like a weather-related comment rather than a scheduling issue.