Is it common in western culture to flip coins?

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Yes! It is common in western culture. I'd say it starts in childhood but is commonly used growing up and into adulthood. It's a fun and fair way to decide things! I believe some professional sports games use this before a game begins to decide which team has the ball and what side of the field they start on. It's also commonly called a "coin toss". Ex: We won the coin toss, so our team starts the game with the ball. Ex: I'll flip you for the last cookie!

How do native speakers use this expression?

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Popular Q&As

05/19

1
What does "can tell" here mean?
To "tell" in this context means to know, to understand, or to figure out something based on available information. Ex: I can tell that she's disappointed by looking at her face. Ex: I can't tell if they liked the presentation.

2
When can I say "who cares"? Could you show me more situation I can use this expression?
This is an informal expression used to express that something is unimportant or not worthy of being cared about. The speaker has used “who cares” to show that he does not care about the situation, and wants Margo to leave her date. Ex: A: It’s raining out. B: Who cares? I have an umbrella. Ex: Who cares? It’s not a serious injury. I’ll be fine by tomorrow.

3
Which is more natural expression? "Awake" or "up"? Does it have any difference?
In this context, "up" and "awake" have the same meaning and effect. However, "up" is a little more casual and informal. Ex. I'm up, I'm up! Stop jumping on the bed. Ex. I've been awake for hours.

4
I think "antiseptic" in the video should be "anesthetic". Is the narrator wrong?
The narrator does indeed say "antiseptic", but I agree that it should be "anesthetic", especially because she says it numbs the spot.

5
Can I say "three millennia" instead of "3000 years"?
Although the meaning of "three millennia" and "3000 years" is the same, it sounds a bit wordy and awkward here. "3000 years" sounds most natural in this context, however "millennium" or "X millennia" might sound better in other contexts (for example, when wanting to emphasize certain achievements or historical events). Ex: It was the first earthquake of this millennium. Ex: This is the most significant scientific discovery in over two millennia.

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