American idioms（在线收听）

Jump Down Someone's Throat: become angry with someone

-That's it, Greg! You'd better not come in after midnight again tonight!

-I know, dad.  You don't have to jump down my throat!  I told you that I'd make it home around 11:30.  I don't intend to be late!

-Well, you've said that before and in you come at 2:30 in the morning.  You can't blame me for getting angry and scolding you.  I've got good reason.

Play It by Ear: improvise as one goes along

-Let's go to the movies, agreed?

-Sure.  And what'll we do after that?

-Oh, I don't' know.  Let's play it by ear.

-Well, I would like to have a more definite plan of action.

-Don't be like that.  It's always more fun not knowing what to expect and deciding what to do as we go along.

Stick Out One's Neck: take a risk

-How come they're asking me to act as their guide through the jungle?

-Evidently they think you're the only one who can lead them to the lost temple.

-That jungle has danger lurking around every corner.  Why should I stick my neck out for them?  They didn't pay me for my services.

-They know that you would be taking a great risk and could possibly get hurt, but you're the only one with enough knowledge to take them to their destination.  I'm sure you'll be amply rewarded.

Get Off Someone's Back: stop bothering someone

-Hey, John.  I'm bored.  Come on, let's go out and do something.

-Sorry, I'm right in the middle of studying for a physics exam.  I won't be able to make it tonight.

-You've been studying for a long time.  Why don't you take a break? Come on! Let's go!  Forget studying for a while!

-Look! Get off my back!  I can't go anywhere!

-OK. I'll stop bothering you only if you promise to let me know the minute you're finished.

Pull Someone's Leg: fool someone

-Hey, Al.  I was invited to be a judge for the Miss America Beauty Pageant!

-Oh, really?  Come on, you're pulling my leg!

-No, honestly.  Do you really think that I'm trying to fool you with a ridiculous story?

-Well, you've told me foolish stories before.

-I can assure you that this one is for real.