CUNY - College of Staten Island - English Language Institute



CUNY - College of Staten Island: The English Language Institute (ELI) of the Center for Global Engagement has offered innovative academic programs for students learning English as a Second Language since the late 1970’s. Our course of study is designed to challenge and engage students. Students are immersed in the language, culture, and ethnicity of New York City. Classes range from beginner to the advanced level.

Saturday, June 27, 2015

AS COOL AS A CUCUMBER // GOT IT IN THE BAG


  • If you are as cool as a cucumber, then you are calm and untroubled by stress. 



  • If you've got it in the bag, then you are certain you can accomplish a task.


Example

Max: Is Marie worried abou her finals?

Jim: No. She's as cool as a cucumber. She's sure she's got it in the bag.

image courtesy of dreamstime.com

Monday, June 1, 2015

FINE TUNING

If you "fine tune" something, you make small changes to improve it. This expression comes from the idea that we tune a musical instrument to make it sound on key.

Jack: Are you finished with your term paper?
Sue: Almost, but not quite. I still need to fine tune it before handing it in.

image courtesy of dreamstime.com