Master the Language of Westeros: Everyday English Idioms from Game of Thrones
If you’re a fan of the hit TV series, Game of Thrones, you’ve probably admired the unique language and expressions used in Westeros. But did you know that many of these idioms have parallels in everyday English? Let’s explore some common phrases from the show and see how they apply to our daily English conversations.
1. “Winter is Coming”
This well-known phrase is not just a motto for House Stark. In everyday English, we often use weather-related expressions to describe situations. “Winter is coming” could be seen as a warning to prepare for hard times ahead, much like the idiom “save for a rainy day”.
Practical Application:
Example: “Looks like winter is coming at work, we might have to save for a rainy day.”
2. “Bend the Knee”
In the world of Game of Thrones, “bend the knee” means to submit or swear allegiance. In daily English, we might say “throw in the towel” when someone gives up or surrenders.
Practical Application:
Example: “After hours of negotiation, the union decided to bend the knee and accept the company’s terms.”
3. “Play the Game of Thrones”
Playing the Game of Thrones means doing whatever it takes to gain power. In everyday English, one might “play the field” in a similar context, meaning to explore all options before making a decision.
Practical Application:
Example: “He’s not ready to settle down, he’s still playing the Game of Thrones.”
4. “Valar Morghulis” and “Valar Dohaeris”
These High Valyrian phrases translate to “all men must die” and “all men must serve”. In our daily conversations, we might use expressions like “nothing lasts forever” or “everyone has their part to play”.
Practical Application:
Example: “Despite the challenges, we all have a role to fulfill. As they say in Game of Thrones, Valar Dohaeris.”
5. “A Lannister Always Pays His Debts”
This phrase is a Lannister family motto and a promise of repayment. In everyday English, we often say “return the favor” to convey a similar sentiment.
Practical Application:
Example: “Don’t worry, I’m a Lannister, I always pay my debts.”
6. “Dracarys”
“Dracarys” is High Valyrian for “dragonfire”, used to command dragons to breathe fire. In our daily conversations, we might use the phrase “pull the trigger” when someone takes decisive action.
Practical Application:
Example: “After months of planning, it was finally time to dracarys and launch the project.”
Wrapping Up
From the icy North to the fiery South, Game of Thrones is filled with unique expressions that can help enrich your everyday English conversations. By using these idioms, not only will you sound more natural, but you’ll also have fun referencing your favorite show. Remember, the key to mastering small talk and casual fluency is practice.
Challenge
Now that you’ve learned these expressions, your challenge is to use at least one of them in your next English conversation. As they say in Westeros, “When you play the Game of Thrones, you win or you learn.”