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Idiom of the Week - Question mark?

5/18/2015

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Last time we had taken a look at expressions with exclamation marks so why not learn some with question mark this week?

What’s the deal?: used when asking someone to explain what they have been doing or what they are planning to do
E.g.      You haven't been talking to me all week - what's the deal?
             So, what's the deal? Are we going out to dinner or not?

What’s up? What’s cooking? What’s new? What’s happening? : usual way to greet someone
E.g.      A: Hi Mary. What’s cooking?
             B: Not much. I’m just finishing up my housework.
             A: Hey John. What’s up?
             B: Oh, not much. I’ve been getting everything ready for our family trip this weekend.

What’s the catch?: used when something sounds too good to be true
E.g.      A: You can get this brand new car for $50/month!
             B. What’s the catch?
             A: This job will pay you a $1000 per day!
             B: That sounds great but what’s the catch?

What’s the drill?: used when inquiring about the rules and procedures
E.g.      I just started my new job today but I need to order some supplies. What’s the drill?
             I need to apply for new license plates. What's the drill?

What are you getting at?: used when inquiring about the other person’s intention, what he/she is implying, to clarify their message
E.g.      Why are you looking at me like that? What are you getting at?
             A: You know I liked you better when we were in high school. B: I don’t understand. What you getting at?

It raises a question mark: there is a feeling of doubt about the ability or quality of something a question mark over something,
E.g.      The recent actions of the government scandals raised a question mark over their ability to lead.
             Jill’s husband has been working long hours and disappearing for days which raises a question mark over his commitment for his family.


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