My friend Helen made me think on how I talk. As an American, I use slang and idioms every day. I didn’t realize how many there were and I’m not the only one to use them; my friends, family, on TV, in magazines basically everywhere. I am going to count slang and idioms that I use just to see how many there are. Of course not all at once, first I have to pay attention, listen and write them down when I say, hear or see them. Also I will include other slang and idioms that I do not use or even what Wisconsinites say. I do know what they all mean even though I may not say them in everyday conversations. I will indicate which ones I do not use.

Idioms

1. Hit the nail on the head meaning you are correct.

You really hit the nail on the head when you said the Green Bay Packers would win the game.

I hit the nail on the head when I knew I would get that promotion.

2. Hold down the fort meaning to take care of a place while someone is gone like a store or a home.

So you hold down the fort (take care of my home) while I go on vacation.

I will hold down the fort till the boss gets back.

3. Lay it on me meaning tell me.

I have some crazy stories. Lay it on me!

This guy told me the stupidest excuse ever. Lay it on me.

Slang

1. Swamped meaning overloaded with work.

I am swamped at work.

I am swamped with homework.

2. Trashed meaning being really drunk.

I got totally trashed last New Year’s Eve party.

I think Kevin is trashed.

3. Bubbler meaning water fountain for drinking. Note: I do not say this but a lot of Wisconsinites say this.

I need a drink from the bubbler.

Let’s get a drink from the bubbler.