"On All Fours" Natural Recordings by Native Speakers
"On all fours" means to be in a position where all four limbs (two hands and two feet) are on the ground, typically referring to animals or young children crawling. It can also metaphorically indicate a situation where someone is in a submissive or basic position.
1. The baby was crawling on all fours across the floor, exploring his new environment.
2. After the accident, the hiker had to drag himself on all fours up the steep mountain trail.
3. In yoga class, we practiced a pose where we balanced on our hands and knees, resembling an animal on all fours.
4. The puppy playfully chased its tail, rolling and bouncing on all fours.
5. The firefighters had to crawl on all fours through the narrow, smoke-filled corridor to reach the trapped victims.
"Off and on" means something that happens intermittently or periodically, with periods of both activity and inactivity. It can also indicate a relationship or situation that is not continuous or consistent, but rather starts and stops.
"Off the beaten track" means away from the usual or well-known places, paths, or routes. It refers to something that is less traveled, unconventional, or less explored, often suggesting a sense of adventure or discovery.
"Off the cuff" means impromptu or spontaneous, referring to something said or done without preparation or notes, as if spoken directly from one's sleeve without consulting a script. It often describes a speech or a response given on the spot.
"Oh my god" is an expression used to convey surprise, shock, disbelief, or astonishment. It can be in response to something surprising, impressive, or alarming. It is often used as an exclamation.
"Oil and gas" refers to the natural resources found beneath the Earth's surface, primarily consisting of hydrocarbons. Oil is a liquid fossil fuel, often used for transportation and energy generation, while gas, mainly methane, is utilized for heating, cooking, and power production. These resources are crucial to many industries and economies worldwide.
"Ojos del Salado" refers to a mountain in South America, specifically in the Andes. It is the highest active volcano in the world and holds a notable feature of having small lakes or "ojos" (eyes) of water on its slopes, which gives it this name. It translates to "Eyes of Salt" due to these saltwater lakes.
"Old folks' home" is a colloquial term for a nursing home or an assisted living facility where elderly people who require care and support live. It is a place where older adults, often those who can no longer manage independently, receive help with daily activities, medical attention, and socialization.
"On account of" means "because of" or "due to". It is used to indicate the reason for something.