Tag Archives: pins and needles

Brit-phrase Amerci-phrase

Do these expressions sound slightly out of whack to you? If so, you’re probably an American. If not, you must be a Brit.

  • I can’t make head or tailĀ  of what you’re saying.
  • I couldn’t care less about his beliefs.
  • He takes his disabilities in his stride.
  • I’ve got pins and needles in my legs.
  • That series of lectures is right up my street.
  • Touch wood, I’ll pass my driving test this time around.
  • She placed it smack-bang in the middle of the circle.

 

In this case, if you’re surprised at the outcome you’re probably an American.

  • After my offensive outburst at work, I was given my marching orders.

And if this sounds weird to you, you’re likely a Brit.

  • We’re on pins and needles not knowing who won.

 

And here, if you’re wondering whether tenterhooks are very big pins and needles, or whether A-levels have something to do with camping, you’re probably an American.

  • We were on tenterhooks for days, until her A-level results came through.