Learn English and International Phrases and Sayings
B.F. Skinner was an American psychologist known for his work in behaviorism, particularly his theory of operant conditioning. He proposed that behavior is influenced by its consequences, either reinforcement or punishment, and focused on studying observable actions rather than internal mental states.
The phrase "bab el oued" is an Arabic term that translates to "river gate" in English. It likely refers to a location where a river meets a city or a significant waterway, often serving as a point of transportation, trade, or a natural landmark.
Bachelor of Arts (BA) is an undergraduate academic degree awarded for completing a program in the arts, humanities, social sciences, or sometimes in natural sciences. It typically takes three to four years to complete and provides a foundational education in various subjects before specializing in a specific field.
The phrase "back and forth" means moving repeatedly between two places or positions, going back and coming forward, or engaging in a continuous exchange or discussion. It describes an action that is repetitive and not in a straight line.
"Back at work" means that someone has returned to their job or duties after a break, absence, or time off. They are now resuming their regular activities and responsibilities at their workplace.
"Back to front" means reversed or in the opposite order than usual. It can refer to something being placed or done with the back part facing what would typically be the front, or a process that is completed in a sequence opposite to the normal one.
"Back to work" means resuming one's job or duties after a break, vacation, or time off. It refers to the act of returning to one's regular employment or tasks.
Bacon and eggs is a common breakfast dish consisting of cooked bacon served alongside fried or scrambled eggs. It's a popular combination of savory cured pork (bacon) and protein-rich food (eggs), often eaten together for a hearty meal.
"Baie des Anges" is a French phrase that translates to "Bay of Angels" in English. It refers to a bay located in the southeast of France, along the Mediterranean coast, near the city of Nice. The name is derived from the picturesque view and the legend that angels would descend to this beautiful coastal area.
Baja California Sur is a state located in western Mexico, on the southern part of the Baja California Peninsula. It is known for its beautiful beaches, desert landscapes, and is part of the Baja California region. The name "baja" means "low" or "lower," referring to its position below the higher Baja California Norte, while "sur" means "south." So, Baja California Sur refers to the southern portion of this peninsula.
The phrase "banc du geyser" is not a common idiomatic expression in English. It seems to be a direct translation from French, where "banc" means "bench" and "geyser" refers to a geothermal eruption or a fountain of steam and water. If taken literally, it would mean "geyser bench." However, without further context, it's difficult to provide an exact meaning. It could potentially refer to a seating area near a geyser or a metaphorical situation where someone experiences unexpected bursts of energy or activity, similar to a geyser's eruptions.
The "Banc du Géysir" is a phrase that refers to a specific location in France. It is a bank or bench situated near the famous Geyser of Chauvet-Gourdon, which is a natural hot spring in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The term "banc" means bench, and "geysir" comes from the Icelandic word for geyser. So, "Banc du Géysir" literally translates to "Geyser's Bench" in English. This place might be a designated seating area or a viewpoint for visitors to observe the geothermal activity.
"Bandar Seri Begawan" is the capital city of Brunei, a small country located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. The name "Bandar Seri Begawan" translates to "City of Seri Begawan" in English. Seri Begawan is an honorific title referring to the country's former ruler, Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien III.
Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital city of Brunei, a small sultanate located on the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. The name translates to "City of seri Begawan," with "seri" meaning "palace" or "royal" and "Begawan" being the local term for the area's river or a reference to the royal family. It is known for its opulent architecture, mosques, and traditional Malay culture.
Bang & Olufsen is a Danish company known for producing high-quality audio and visual equipment, such as speakers, televisions, and headphones. The name is derived from two individuals, Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen, who founded the company in 1924. They were pioneers in the field of audio technology and designed products with a focus on both aesthetics and sound performance. So, when you see "Bang & Olufsen," it refers to a brand that represents premium, stylish, and technologically advanced devices.
"Bangers and mash" is a traditional British dish consisting of sausages (often referred to as "bangers") served with mashed potatoes. The term "bangers" comes from the fact that during World War II, when meat was scarce, sausages were made with a high water content, causing them to potentially explode or "bang" when cooked due to the release of steam. Today, it's a popular and simple meal enjoyed in many British households and pubs.
Bassas da India is an uninhabited volcanic atoll located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of the island of Réunion. It is a French overseas territory and is known for its shallow waters and hazardous navigation, often causing shipwrecks. The name "Bassas da India" translates to "India's footing" or "Indian low rocks" in Portuguese, reflecting its historical association with early Portuguese exploration.
A "batterie de cuisine" is a collection or set of kitchen appliances and equipment in French. It typically refers to a range of tools and devices used for cooking and preparing food in a household kitchen. This can include items like pots, pans, mixers, blenders, and small appliances like toasters or coffee makers.
"Baume & Mercier" is a Swiss luxury watchmaking company known for producing high-quality timepieces. The name combines the surnames of the company's founders, Louis-Victor Baume and his cousin Paul-Constant Mercier. They established the brand in 1830, and it has since become renowned for its elegant and refined watches.
The Bay of Bengal is a large gulf in the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean, located between India, Bangladesh, Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. It is the world's smallest bay and covers an area of about 2 million square kilometers. The name comes from the Portuguese term "Gol Banga," which means "sea of Bengal." The bay is known for its significant maritime trade routes and has a rich marine biodiversity.
The Bay of Naples is a body of water located in southern Italy, along the coast of the Gulf of Naples. It is a well-known and picturesque region, famous for its historical significance, stunning landscapes, and the city of Naples as its main hub. The bay is surrounded by volcanic mountains, including Mount Vesuvius, and is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful coastline, archaeological sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum, and the nearby islands of Capri and Ischia.
Meaning: To be virtuous, kind, and morally upright. Being a good person typically involves exhibiting positive traits such as honesty, compassion, and integrity. It often involves taking the high road, being respectful, and treating others with kindness and respect.
"Be able to" is a phrase used to express the possibility or capability of doing something. It indicates that someone has the skill, authority, or physical ability to perform a certain action. For example, "I can swim" means "I am able to swim."
"Be afraid of" means to feel fear or anxiety towards something or someone. It suggests a sense of unease or apprehension about a potential danger, harm, or negative outcome.
The phrase "be all and end all" means something that is considered extremely important or crucial, as if it is the ultimate goal or solution to a particular situation. It suggests that nothing else matters beyond that particular thing.
"Be angry with" means to feel anger or resentment towards someone because of something they have done or said. It implies that you are directing your anger specifically at that person.
"Be aware of" means to know about or to have knowledge or consciousness of something. It implies that you are mindful or attentive to a particular fact, situation, or thing. For example, "You should be aware of the potential risks before investing in the stock market."
"To be good at something" means to have a strong ability or skill in performing a particular task or activity. It implies that you are proficient, competent, and often excel in that area compared to others. For example, if someone says "She is good at playing the piano," it means she has a high level of skill or talent in playing the musical instrument.
The phrase "be right back" is an informal way of saying that someone will return or come back very soon, typically after a brief absence or leaving a conversation momentarily. It's often used when you need to step away for a moment and assure others that you will return quickly.
"Be sure to" means to make certain or ensure that you do something. It is an encouragement or reminder to not forget or neglect a particular action. For example, "Be sure to submit your assignment before the deadline" means you should double-check and make sure you have completed and submitted the assignment on time.
"Be that as it may" is a phrase used to acknowledge that what someone is saying is true, but to indicate that it doesn't necessarily change the point being made or the conclusion being drawn. It is often used to introduce a counterargument or a qualification to what has already been said, expressing a sense of caveat or reservation.
The phrase "bear in mind" means to remember or keep something important in your thoughts or consideration. It's a reminder to have a particular fact, idea, or instruction at the forefront of your awareness.
"Bear with me" means to ask someone to be patient and tolerate a situation, often when the speaker is about to explain something complex or take some time to finish a task. It's a request for understanding and patience.
The phrase "beat around the bush" means to avoid giving a direct answer or topic when speaking, instead speaking in a vague or indirect manner. It suggests that someone is not being straightforward or honest about what they really want to say.
Beche de mer, also known as sea cucumber, is a type of marine echinoderm found in tropical and subtropical waters. It is a soft-bodied animal with a tube-like body that feeds on tiny marine organisms by filtering the water through its skin. In culinary terms, it is a delicacy in some cultures and is used in various dishes for its gelatinous texture and supposed health benefits.
"Beck and call" means to be available at someone's request or command, ready to serve or attend to their needs immediately. It often implies a sense of being at one's disposal. For example, "The butler was always at the lady's beck and call, attending to her every need."