Language Cafe: Over a barrel

温 故 

知 新

Over a barrel

有志提高英文的小伙伴们

千万不要错过 收 听 节 目

Definition: In a helpless position; at someone's mercy.

Origin: It is supposed that it alludes to the actual situation of being draped over a barrel, either to empty the lungs of someone who has been close to drowning, or to give a flogging/beating.

A

He had the company over a barrel when he announced that he was joining its competitor along with all of his clients.

他投靠竞争对手并带走全部客户，这一举措让公司陷于被动。

B

She has to have everyone in the household over a barrel. Only by doing this can she feel secure and in control.

家里的每一个人都必须听她的(摆布)，如此她才感觉安全和踏实。

C

We all have moments in our lives where we feel like someone has us over a barrel.

（最后一句依然留给大家来翻译。）

Language Cafe 由国际台首席英文主播、金话筒奖得主、资深英语教师曼玲与外籍主持人精心挑选地道英文表达，以轻松愉快的聊天形式让听众过耳不失，学以致用。

Carefully picked by Manling, A prime broadcaster for CRI's English service, also a seasoned English teacher, and her native English co-host, these authentic words and expressions are presented to listeners with empowered vocal images. Walk through our show,and they will be yours!

Language Cafe 可在以下平台收听：

广播频道    北京AM846

                 北京AM1008

微信关注    英语环球NEWSPlus

苹果播客、国航航班、企鹅FM

微信：英语环球ChinaPlus

网站：Chinaplus.cri.cn

客户端：China Plus

新浪微博：英语环球广播

点击下面 上企鹅FM