PE 12/21 Rona’s Stolen Bike

* make off with something: to escape with something; steal something

ex> Police say that the thieves made off with over three million dollars’ worth of diamonds.

* have a history of: to be known for being or doing something repeatedly

ex> My brother has a history of breaking up with women as soon as they mention marriage.

* beloved: very loved; cherished

ex> Cheryl had a coffee mug made with a picture of her beloved dog Melvis on it.

* shoddy: badly made or done

ex> Because of the shoddy workmanship, the coat hooks fell off the wall in only a few weeks.

* bite the bullet: to face a difficult or painful situation

ex> I guess I’m going to have to bite the bullet and tell Gloria I lost her favorite gloves.

Note> Long ago, patients were given a stick or lead bullet to bit down on during painful surgical procedures. Although the bullet was quite strong, they would actually deform somewhat when bitten hard. Hence teeth would not break.

* bitter pill to swallow: something unpleasant that must be accepted

ex> It was a bitter pill to swallow when my kids started beating me at the games I taught them.

Note> This also means an unpleasant fact, disappointment, or humiliation that is difficult to endure. Failing an important exam or being demoted (opposite of promotion) in the office could be a bitter pill to swallow.

* in plain view: 잘 보이는

An alternate version of this expression is in plain sight. The meaning is exactly the same.

ex> It was sitting on the chair in the corner of the bedroom, in plain view. I can’t believe you couldn’t see it.