American Idioms
Professor Charles Bordogna
CHAPTER 2: SHOPPING AT THE DISCOUNT STORE
(Scene: At a huge discount store on a busy highway Rich is introducing his Jordanian friend, Mehdi, to shopping - American style).
Rich: I try to come to this store whenever I get the chance. They have weekly specials here that are a real steal!
Mehdi: But there are so many people, I can't see what they are selling!
Rich: Yea, it's a mob scene all right, but chill out! If you want to save some money, this place is for you.
Mehdi: Look at the prices of these video tapes! How do they sell things so cheaply?
Rich: Beats me! I think they buy in large quantities and then sell at blow out prices.
Medhi: But how do you know what will be on sale each week?
Rich: You don't. I just drop by from time to time. It goes without saying that sometimes there's nothing I need. At other times, I hit it big!
Mehdi: I see that you can save money here, but Rich, I've seen you spend much money on clothes.
Rich: I cut where I can so I can afford to buy nice clothes. You've got to learn the ropes around here. Look at the prices on these plastic crates! This place blows my mind!
Mehdi: Now you're buying crates, but do you need them?
Rich: Not right now, but someday I will. When you see a bargin, you jump on it!
Mehdi: And this store can still make a profit at these prices?
Rich: The turn over is enormous. The profit on each item is small, but they make up for it in volume.
Mehdi: I feel that I should buy something even though I don't need anything!
Rich: That's the spirit! Most of these people don't need the junk they're buying. They just get a kick out of shopping. Hey, that's the American way!
Practice and Activities <--Mobile Compatible Version
Exercise 1 Exercise 2 <--Flash Required