Texas Phrases

[TexasStooge]

Saying: The engine's runnin' but ain't nobody driving.

Translation: Not overly-intelligent.


Saying: Tighter than bark on a tree.

Translation: Not very generous.


Saying: Big hat, no cattle.

Translation: All talk and no action.


Saying: We've howdied but we ain't shook yet.

Translation: We've made a brief acquaintance, but not been formally introduced.


Saying: He thinks the sun come up just to hear him crow.

Translation: He has a pretty high opinion of himself.


Saying: As welcome as a skunk at a lawn party.

Translation: (self-explanatory).


Saying: S/He's got tongue enough for 10 rows of teeth.

Translation: Talks a lot.


Saying: It's so dry the trees are bribin' the dogs.

Translation: We really could use a little rain around here.


Saying: Just because a chicken has wings don't mean it can fly.

Translation: Appearances can be deceptive.


Saying: This ain't my first rodeo.

Translation: I've been around awhile.


Saying: He looks like the dog's been keepin' him under the porch.

Translation: Not the most handsome of men.


Saying: They ate supper before they said grace.

Translation: Living in sin.


Saying: As full of wind as a corn-eating horse.

Translation: Rather prone to boasting.


Saying: You can put your boots in the oven, but that don't make 'em biscuits.

Translation: You can say whatever you want about something, but that doesn't change what it is.

[arkess7]

[Dee Bee]

I love these! I'm going to use them in my freshman composition course when we study figurative language -- thanks!

[Skywatch_NC]

************

Here in NC natives say: Do you want me to carry you someplace?

I think back to the time in early childhood when my Dad gave me an occasional piggyback ride when I hear that term and just grin widely.
Then when I'm off alone somewhere I

Eric