PE 5/14 Sea Kayaking Around Comino, Malta

This kayak is much easier to paddle than I thought it would be. I expected to be floundering out here on the sea, but I’m actually getting the hang of it.

* flounder [fláundər]: to struggle without success (physically, mentally, or economically)

ex> Sheila did well on the written part of the test, but floundered in the listening portion.

* get the hang of something: to become competent at something

ex> Emily got the hang of fencing very quickly, and was entering competitions within months.

Note> This phrase is to learn how to do something especially when it is not simple or obvious.

You look like a pro! And this is a pretty easy way to get around when the water’s calm like this. You said this island is a nature reserve?

* get around: Be careful! In very informal situations, there is an alternate, derogatory meaning for this expression when it is applied to a woman. It is much safer to say (for example) that a woman uses public transit or her car to get around, than to say that she “gets around.”

ex> I used to drive a car, but I decided to start using public transit to get around now.

Yep. Only four people live on Comino. Ooh! Let’s check out that sea cave! The water is such a stunning shade of blue.

* check out: to investigate or examine something

ex> I’d like to go to the art gallery to check out that new photography exhibit.

* stunning: extremely attractive or impressive

ex> Fiona wore a stunning low-cut dress to the banquet.

ex> Chester stopped the car so his family could enjoy the stunning view of the valley.

Hold on. What’s that stone tower up there? I thought you said this island was virtually uninhabited.

* hold on: to wait

ex> Hold on for a moment while I try to pry the window open.

No, but I’ll take your word for it. So it’s deserted now?

* take one’s word for it: to believe someone without needing proof

ex> There’s a huge crocodile in the basement! Please take our word for it.