On-line English classes in vocabulary, grammar, reading and writing. Go beyond the drudgery of ordinary textbooks, enjoy literature and learn English directly from a great American writer.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
You are the one
Hi Sue,
Does your time allow you to tell the meaning of the expression: "You are the one"? In the context I heard it, it seems to mean "you are too clever, you are mischivous" or something like that.
Hi Ali, I think the expression, "You are the one", can be interpreted in several ways, depending on the circumstances in which it is used. It can mean you have been chosen or your idea has been chosen, or if used with more emphasis on ONE can mean you're the top dog. Another way of saying this in the US is a rather new expression, "You're the man." It indicates you're the boss, you're chosen, you're the leader of the pack. Another use for the phrase is when you are deciding whose solution to a problem is the winner. "He's the one. He's the man." For example, Obama was the man after his election, but now, a lot of Americans are listening to other voices and it looks like he is losing favor with some. I have my own ideas as to why this is happening, but that's another story.
Thank you very much, Sue. Forgive me for asking such a vague expression like this. My way of asking leaves room for a lot of doubts and suspicions. It may be interesting for you to know that I saw it in the cartoon Flintstones. My soul flew back to those childhood days when I filled some hours each week with this cartoon after tedious school days. I think even today it is very useful for our speaking skills. Thanks for being beside us. Ali
3 comments:
Hi Ali, I think the expression, "You are the one", can be interpreted in several ways, depending on the circumstances in which it is used. It can mean you have been chosen or your idea has been chosen, or if used with more emphasis on ONE can mean you're the top dog. Another way of saying this in the US is a rather new expression, "You're the man." It indicates you're the boss, you're chosen, you're the leader of the pack.
Another use for the phrase is when you are deciding whose solution to a problem is the winner. "He's the one. He's the man." For example, Obama was the man after his election, but now, a lot of Americans are listening to other voices and it looks like he is losing favor with some. I have my own ideas as to why this is happening, but that's another story.
Sue
Hi Ali, After reading your original question over, I realize that, yes, that expression can mean what you suggested, as well.
If someone does something cute or clever, this would be a complimentary retort.
Thank you very much, Sue. Forgive me for asking such a vague expression like this. My way of asking leaves room for a lot of doubts and suspicions. It may be interesting for you to know that I saw it in the cartoon Flintstones. My soul flew back to those childhood days when I filled some hours each week with this cartoon after tedious school days. I think even today it is very useful for our speaking skills.
Thanks for being beside us.
Ali
Post a Comment