An idiom is a combination of words that have a symbolic meaning. Understanding and using idioms is tricky because an idiom’s meaning is different from that of the words that comprise it. We know it’s hard, but we’re here to help!

所谓俚语就是把几个词组到一起拥有一个象征性的意义。理解和应用俚语是比较微妙的，因为俚语的意义远非简单的几个词意义的中和。我们知道这很难，但是我们愿意给大家提供帮助。

Alright, lets begin with “dog-eat-dog”.

This expression refers to a place or situation that is highly competitive. In a dog-eat-dog world, people will do whatever it takes to be successful, even if that means harming others.

这个俚语表示某个地方或形势非常有竞争性。在一个人吃人的世界，人们为了成功会不惜一切代价，即使是伤害别人也在所不辞。

Here’s an example: “The music industry is dog-eat-dog; one day you’re on top and the next, everyone forgot you!”

举个例子：“音乐界向来是人吃人的世界;今天你还站在最高点，而明天可能所有人就都忘记了你!”

What about “cat got your tongue?”

This question is used when someone is at a loss of words or being unusually quiet. If someone asks you if the cat has got your tongue, it means you seem to be speechless and can’t think of something to say.

如果某人问你if the cat has got your tongue, 那么它表示你(因惊讶、尴尬而)一时失语，不知说什么好。

Why won’t you answer my question? Has the cat got your tongue?

你为何不回答我的问题? 你成了哑巴了吗 ?

What’s the matter Lucy, cat got your tongue?

路西你怎么了，舌头被猫抓住了吗?(怎么没话了)