In today’s “English Idioms for Newcomers,” let’s take a look at this expression: “Beat around the bush.” What does “Beat around the bush” mean? “Beat around the bush” means: To avoid the point To talk about unimportant things because you want to avoid talking about what is really important Examples: Why are you beating around the bush instead of telling me what …
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
May 21st is World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development! Cultural diversity refers to the different birthplaces, ethnicities, languages, values, beliefs, and world views particular groups of people identify with. We can deepen our understanding of cultural diversity and its value in our lives by simply having a dialogue with those who are different from us. It all …
Take it with a pinch of salt
In today’s “English Idioms for Newcomers”, let’s take a look at this expression: “Take it with a pinch of salt.” What does “Take it with a pinch of salt” mean? “Take it with a pinch of salt” means: Do not take it too seriously. Examples: Martha often exaggerates the achievements she’s had in her painting career, so I take everything she …
A blessing in disguise
In today’s “English Idioms for Newcomers”, let’s take a look at this expression: “A blessing in disguise.” What does “A blessing in disguise” mean? “A blessing in disguise” means: An event that seems wrong at first but results in something good happening later. Examples: She was upset when her boyfriend left her, but it was a blessing in disguise because she …
Bring to light
In today’s “English Idioms for Newcomers”, let’s take a look at this expression: “Bring to light”. What does “bring to light” mean? “Bring to light” means: Reveal or disclose something previously hidden or secret Reveal something, often something inappropriate or illegal To cause something to be known Synonyms: Reveal, expose, disclose. Example: The facts that were uncovered in the investigation …
Welcome Spring!
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant.” – Anne Bradstreet In 2022, the March equinox happens on Sunday, March 20, at 11:33 A.M. EDT. In Canada, this date marks the first day of spring! The word equinox comes from the Latin words for “equal night”. On the March equinox, day and night are approximately the …
Daylight Savings Time: Tips to Help You Adjust
At 2 am on March 13, 2021, Albertans “spring forward” one hour to observe daylight saving time! Here are some tips to help your body adjust to the new timetable! Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol four to six hours before bedtime, as they prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep. Limit your screen time before bed or use the …
February is Black History Month
During Black History Month, we honour the legacy of our fellow people of African, African American and Caribbean heritage and celebrate their achievements and contributions. Every February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and festivities. The 2022 theme for Black History Month is: “February and Forever: Celebrating Black History today and every day”. Everyone is invited to …
How Not to Overspend on Black Friday
Today is Black Friday! Black Friday is the Friday following the Thanksgiving in the United States. In the United States as well as Canada, Black Friday traditionally marks the start of the holiday shopping season. No time to shop on Friday? No worries. Many retailers offer Black Friday Weekend deals, so that consumers have more time to shop on the …
Where to See Fall Foliage in Calgary
It looks like fall. It feels like fall. Summer is officially over and now is the golden season of fall! Here are a few places in Calgary where you can see fall foliage: Prince’s Island Park: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW Confederation Park: 24 Avenue & 14 Street NW to 30 Avenue & 10 Street NW Edworthy Park: South Access …