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, May 19, 2018

To Get Bent Out of Shape

When you “get bent out of shape,” you get upset because of something.
Example: After Susan’s basketball team lost, she got all bent out of shape.

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Saturday, May 12, 2018

To Bite Off your Nose to Spite your Face

When you “bite off your nose to spite your face,” you overreact to a situation and make it worse for yourself. It’s usually an action done for revenge.
Example: Linda got mad at Jackie and ignored her for years. Linda really bit off her nose to spite her face.

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Saturday, May 5, 2018

Wouldn’t be Caught Dead

If you “wouldn’t be caught dead” doing something, this means you would never do it.
Example: Lucas hates sports, so he wouldn’t be caught dead at a football game.

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