REVIEW FOR LESSONS 21-25

not a bad guy an okay person (usually used when you don't really like somebody, but you want to say that they're basically not a bad person) EXAMPLE: Tim does have a bad temper, but he's not a bad guy.

(to) have (some) issues to have some personality problems (a vague way of saying that somebody is not quite right in some way) EXAMPLE: Unfortunately, Denise can be difficult to work with. She has some issues.

(to) have a chip on one's shoulder to remain angry about a past insult; to bear a grudge EXAMPLE: Ever since Mike was told he had to leave his office and move into a cubicle, he's had a chip on his shoulder.

ORIGIN: This expression comes from the 19th century. Those looking for a fight placed a chip on their shoulder. If an opponent knocked it off, the fight was on. Although that custom has ended, we still say an angry person has a chip on his or her shoulder.

(to be or to get) on one's high horse to have an arrogant or superior attitude; to think one has all the answers EXAMPLE: Hank's on his high horse again, telling everybody around him how to behave. NOTE: You'll also hear the related expression: "Get off your high horse!" meaning to stop acting arrogant or superior.

(to) grin and bear it to put up with it; to pretend it doesn't bother you EXAMPLE: I know you don't like travelling with your boss, but it'll just be a short trip. Just grin and bear it.

NOTE: "Grin" is another word for a smile. "Bear" is to endure or tolerate.

(to) get under one's skin to bother; to irritate; to annoy

EXAMPLE: Your boss is certainly annoying, but don't let him get under your skin!