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Processed with VS1Explore U.S. holiday language and food metaphors, while separating these meanings from phrases already covered elsewhere.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Friendsgiving” is an informal blend of “friends” and “Thanksgiving” for a holiday meal with friends. “Cold turkey” means stopping a habit or substance suddenly; it is not advice about medication or treatment. Figuratively, “gravy” can mean an extra benefit beyond what was expected, while “a turkey” can describe a failure. The lesson leaves out “talk turkey,” “hot potato,” and “I’m stuffed,” which already appear in earlier pages.
Cultural note: Thanksgiving is a U.S. holiday, and not everyone celebrates it or gathers with family. “Cold turkey” is a language expression, not medical guidance; stopping medication or a substance can have health risks and should be discussed with a qualified professional. Calling a person “a turkey” is insulting, so the lesson uses the word for a failed performance or product only. “Friendsgiving” is informal, and practices vary.
Keep exploringHoliday food words can name a social gathering, an unexpected extra, a sudden stop, or a flop.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Recognize an informal name for a friends-centered holiday meal.
Meaning
An informal gathering or meal with friends around the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday.
Tone & use
A blend of “friends” and “Thanksgiving.” It is informal; people use it for different gatherings, and not everyone observes the holiday.
Example
“A few classmates who could not travel home organized a Friendsgiving potluck.”
Understand a food word used for a bonus beyond the expected amount.
Meaning
An extra benefit or money beyond what was expected.
Tone & use
Informal and often used for a bonus. Context distinguishes the figurative sense from the food.
Example
“The project met its main goal, and the small award for early completion was gravy.”
Distinguish stopping suddenly from describing something as a flop.
Meaning
Stop a habit or substance suddenly rather than reducing it gradually.
Tone & use
Informal. This expression does not indicate which approach is safe or appropriate; medical support may be important.
Example
“He stopped checking work messages on weekends all at once—he joked that he had quit the habit cold turkey.”
Meaning
An informal term for a failure, especially a performance, film, or product that does not succeed.
Tone & use
Can sound dismissive or insulting, especially when used about a person. Prefer specific feedback in work or school settings.
Example
“The first version of the app was a turkey, so the team used customer feedback to redesign it.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
Try it · Choose the best expression
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