February Popular Expressions

The colors for Valentine’s Day are red and white; but these colors are not always full of love. Here are a few examples:

to get caught red-handed: to be caught while you are doing something wrong. For example, you catch people red-handed when you see them cheating in a game.

red tape: All the things you must do to get something done in a large organization. For example, you may have gone through a lot of red tape in order to get your visas.

to see red: to be very angry

to tell a white lie: to tell a “small” lie. Often, you tell a white lie because the truth would make someone feel bad.

to be lily white: to be pure and clean; to do the “right” thing all the time. No one can criticize a person who is lily white.

to be young at heart: to feel young, even if you are old.

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You can read more explanations of American terms in Hello! USA, a survival guide on everyday American life. For example, you can read explanations of terms used in banking, shopping, insurance, home rental agreements.

To see the complete Table of Contents and an excerpt, click on the “Books” section on this site; to order, click on the “Order Form” section.

“(Hello! USA) answers every basic thing one must know about how to live, travel, shop, play, and work in the United States.” Mobility Magazine

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Judy Priven is the Founder and President of Hello! America, Inc., which specializes in international relocation publications. Judy is the award-winning author of many books on international relocation and English language skills. For example, the newly revised Hello! USA explains American life and language to international newcomers. StaySafe!!, a 16-page booklet, gives Americans tips on staying safe when traveling internationally. Judy gives seminars on everyday living in the U.S. to international students, corporate employees, and both foreign and returning American diplomats.

© Hello! America, Inc. 2008

Last updated January 29, 2008