Page 214 - Spoken English Flourish Your Language

11212 SpokenEnglish II Example: 1) My father bought a new computer with all the bells
and whistles. I think it even makes toast.
Etymology: 'Bells' and 'whistles' make noise and attract attention, but they are not a necessary part of most things.
Synonyms: frills, extras
biTE T!-IE bullET
Definition: To confront a painfully difficult situation, to have a major problem in one's hands.
Example: 1) After .my Jimmy stole money from my company, I had to bite the bullet and fire him.
bRiNG !-lOME T!-IE bACON
Definition: To earn money and support your family.
Example: 1) My wife brings home the bacon while I stay at home and take care of the kids.
Etymology: 'Bacon' is food (a salty meat made from pork). When you have a job and make money, you bring food and other neces- sities home for your spouse and children.
bUST diGiTS
Definition: To get someone's telephone number.
Example: 1) I need a date for tomorrow night, so I'm going to try
to bust some digits tonight.
Etymology: 'Digits' are numbers and 'bust' means 'break open'. So the phrase suggests that you're getting some numbers from a source that has to be opened up.
bURNEd OUT