Drill 9

Dialogue

A:What's wrong with you? Your face is swollen.

B:My jaw aches. I don't know why.

A:Let me see. No wonder it hurts! One of your teeth looks decayed. You'd better see a dentist right away.

B:Do you think so? I've been putting it off. To tell the honest truth, dentists scare me. I get cold feet when I have to go to one.

A:Don't be foolish. You'd be better off seeing one. I'll make an appointment for you.

B:Okay. I might as well go. But find me one who doesn't hurt!

Definitions

no wonder — it isn't surprising

No wonder you're tired! You walked ten miles today! right away — immediately

I'm sorry I forgot to get that medicine for you I'll take care of it right away. put something off — postpone

Because of the weather, we had to put our picnic offuntil next Sunday. get cold feet — become very cautious be afraid to do something

John wanted to ask Vera to marry him, but he got coldfeet. be better off — be better on a long-term basis

Do you think I'd be better off quitting my present job and going to New York?

might as well — it is a good idea (to do something), although not of major importance If you're going to the library, I might as well go with you and return these books.

Substitution drill

Repeat the following sentences, using the substitutions listed.

1.No wonder your face is swollen! John's angry with you!

Mary is late today!

Fred isn't speaking to her! Bill wanted to leave early! Helen asked Bob to pay her! you lost your pocketbook!

2.You'd better see a dentist right away. I'll take care of that

She's coming to talk to us He wants to see her They need the money We ought to get it

I have to see you

3.I've been putting off going to the dentist. studying for my exam.

paying my income tax. writing a letter to Tom.