On speaking terms

#. On speaking terms

 

Hey guys! Today's English expression is "on speaking terms." "On speaking terms" means to be friendly with someone and not be angry at someone. This expression is mostly used in the negative way, so "not on speaking terms."  This means that you're not friendly and you are angry at someone and won't talk to that person. Now listen to a dialogue between two friends talking about their siblings. Listen closely for the expression on speaking terms.

 

Hey George, how's your brother doing?

> I have no idea.

We had a fight six months ago and I haven't spoken to him since.

> So, you're not on speaking terms again! What happened this time?

It was just something stupid. To be honest, I can't even remember what the fight was about.

> What about your sister? Are you on speaking terms with her?

Nope!

 

So, remember we use "on speaking terms" to show that you're friendly with someone. But it is mostly used in the negative way - "not on speaking terms" - which shows that you are not friendly with someone. Try to use this expression the next time you're talking about your relationship with one of your friends. Thanks for listening and see you next time.

 

• terms tɜːrmz (합의·계약 등의) 조건 term tɜːrm 용어, 말 , 학기(특히 영국에서 1년을 세 학기로 나눈 것 중의 하나) (→semester, termly, term-time)

• sibling ˈsɪblɪŋ (한 명의) 형제자매[동기]