Rebecca
A "knock-out" is when someone is knocked out (unconscious) in a fight, like in boxing. Taylor Swift is stating that if someone were to say that in the streets (in the public), that would be an automatic fight waiting to happen. Ex: The fighter got knocked out in the first round. Ex: It is rare for boxers to get knocked out in a match.
12/16
1
What does "another round" mean? When can I use this expression?
"Another round" is used to at a bar (a place that serves alcohol) to order more alcohol for you or you and the group you're with. Here, however, he is saying "another round" at a cafe to order more coffee to be humorous. You would not order more coffee this way, this phrase is traditionally only used to order more alcohol.
2
What does it mean "hard-core" in this case?
To be "hardcore" means to be extremely dedicated to, committed to, or intense about something. In this case, she is saying that he is displaying a "tough" persona without any vulnerabilities. Ex. He's so hardcore about fitness, I've never seen him eat a pizza or burger.
3
What does "hit sweets" mean?
Here, "hit the sweets pretty hard" basically means that the boy eats a lot of candy. "The sweets" means sweet things, like sugary drinks, candy, and chocolate. Ex: My favorite thing to do is to hit the sweets while watching TV. Ex: I hit the sweets less than I used to, because I got too many cavities.
4
What does "paint on [something]" mean? Is it a metaphor? If so, in what circumstances could I use it?
This isn't a common phrase, actually! I think it was made for the song specifically. Generally, to "paint on [something]" means to literally paint on something. It could reference covering or hiding something with paint, too. Here, it could be a metaphor to put or paint "caution into the wind." "To throw caution to the wind" means to stop being careful and do something slightly dangerous. "Paint" just sounds a lot more poetic and gentle than "to throw." Ex: I prefer to paint on canvas rather than paper. Ex: After thinking about starting her own business, she finally threw caution to the wind and did it.
5
Is "Pheebs" a nickname for "Phoebe"? How do you make the nickname after the name?
Yes, "Pheebs" is a nickname for "Phoebe". It is not a common nickname, but just one that they have given to her personally. You can make any nickname from a name by shortening the sound of the name or adding something else to the name. Ex: My name is Elijah but most people nickname me Eli. Ex: Her name is Madeline but she often goes by "Mads".
Complete the expression with a quiz!
